Audio T Verdict
The ProAc Response D20R is a beautifully balanced floorstanding speaker that combines substantial bass extension with the speed, openness and precision of ProAc’s ribbon tweeter.
Its single 165mm glass-fibre bass and midrange driver creates a wonderfully natural and coherent presentation, while the distinctive downward-firing reflex arrangement gives the speaker impressive low-frequency depth without making placement unnecessarily difficult.
The 60mm ribbon tweeter brings exceptional air and fine detail to voices, strings and percussion, but its carefully damped design prevents the treble from sounding detached from the rest of the music.
An 8-ohm nominal impedance and 88.5dB sensitivity make the D20R reasonably accommodating, although its deep bass and revealing nature mean that capable amplification with good control will be handsomely rewarded.
For listeners who want a slim, elegant floorstander with a spacious soundstage, deep bass and an expressive midrange, the D20R remains one of the most appealing models in ProAc’s Response range.
ProAc Response D20R Floorstanding Speakers
The ProAc Response D20R is a premium two-way floorstanding loudspeaker designed and handcrafted in England.
It combines a 165mm glass-fibre bass and midrange driver with ProAc’s 60mm ribbon tweeter, a specially developed crossover and a downward-firing reflex system that vents through the base of the cabinet.
With a quoted frequency response of 28Hz to 33kHz, the D20R delivers the scale and low-frequency authority expected from a larger floorstander while retaining a slim and elegant cabinet.
Amplification and Speaker Cables Are Required
The Response D20R is a passive loudspeaker and does not contain amplification, streaming, wireless connectivity or volume control.
A suitable stereo amplifier and speaker cables will be required. Source equipment must also be purchased separately unless it is already included within the amplifier.
Developed from the Response D18
The D20R was developed from ProAc’s highly successful Response D18, introducing a redesigned cabinet, revised bass loading, a new crossover and the company’s ribbon tweeter.
The upgraded design provides a more open and expansive midrange, substantial bass extension and a larger, more precisely organised soundstage.
A dome-tweeter version, the Response D20D, is also available for listeners who prefer the presentation of a traditional silk-dome tweeter.
165mm Glass-Fibre Bass and Midrange Driver
The D20R uses a single 165mm ProAc bass and midrange driver with an Excel magnet system.
Its glass-fibre weave cone combines low moving mass with the rigidity required to reproduce bass and midrange frequencies cleanly and accurately.
Using one driver across both frequency regions also helps preserve the natural coherence and consistent tonal character for which ProAc loudspeakers are known.
Acrylic Damping Phase Plug
A distinctive acrylic phase plug sits at the centre of the bass and midrange driver.
The phase plug helps control the behaviour of sound generated around the centre of the cone and contributes to a smoother transition towards the tweeter.
It also forms part of the driver’s carefully developed damping system, helping reduce unwanted resonance and colouration.
ProAc Ribbon Tweeter
The Response D20R uses ProAc’s 60mm by 10mm ribbon tweeter.
Its extremely light ribbon diaphragm can respond quickly to subtle changes within the music, reproducing fine high-frequency detail with excellent speed and clarity.
The tweeter uses rear-chamber damping to control the energy produced behind the ribbon and help it integrate smoothly with the bass and midrange driver.
What Is a Ribbon Tweeter?
A ribbon tweeter uses a very thin, lightweight conductive diaphragm suspended within a magnetic field.
Its low moving mass allows it to respond rapidly to changes in the music, helping reveal fine detail, atmosphere and the natural decay of instruments.
Wide and Expansive Soundstage
The combination of the ribbon tweeter, narrow front baffle and carefully integrated crossover allows the D20R to create a broad and precisely focused stereo image.
Voices and instruments are positioned clearly across the soundstage, while subtle spatial information helps convey the size and acoustic character of the original recording.
Correct speaker placement and toe-in remain essential if the full imaging performance is to be realised.
28Hz Bass Extension
ProAc specifies a frequency response extending down to 28Hz.
This gives the D20R genuine low-frequency weight and allows it to reproduce bass guitar, piano, orchestral music and electronic recordings without automatically requiring a subwoofer.
The final bass balance will depend on the room, positioning, amplifier control and distance from nearby walls.
Does the D20R Need a Subwoofer?
Not necessarily. Its quoted 28Hz extension will provide sufficient bass for many two-channel music systems.
A carefully integrated subwoofer can still add the lowest octave and greater scale in particularly large rooms or for music containing substantial sub-bass information.
Downward-Firing Reflex Loading
The D20R uses a downward-firing reflex port that terminates into the plinth beneath the cabinet.
The output is distributed through the openings around the base, creating more consistent loading than a conventional rear-facing port and making the speaker somewhat less sensitive to its distance from the rear wall.
This does not make positioning unimportant, but it provides greater flexibility when integrating the D20R into a real living room.
Keep the Base Vents Clear
Do not block the openings between the cabinet and lower plinth.
The downward-firing reflex system relies on these vents to operate correctly, so rugs, cables and other objects should be kept clear of the base.
Easier Placement, Not Placement-Free
The D20R’s bass-loading system makes it less dependent on a large gap behind the cabinet than many rear-ported floorstanding speakers.
Moving the speakers closer to a wall will still increase bass reinforcement, while positioning them further into the room may improve definition and soundstage depth.
Small adjustments can make a considerable difference, so final positioning should be established by listening rather than measurement alone.
Hand-Built Crossover
The crossover uses carefully selected components mounted on a dedicated circuit board.
It has been developed specifically to integrate the glass-fibre bass and midrange driver with the ribbon tweeter across their overlapping frequency range.
Multistrand oxygen-free copper cable is used internally throughout the loudspeaker.
Bi-Wiring and Bi-Amplification
The crossover is split to support optional bi-wiring and bi-amplification.
For conventional single-wire operation, the high-frequency and low-frequency terminals must remain connected by the fitted terminal links.
Bi-amplification should only be attempted with suitable equipment and a clear understanding of the amplifier and loudspeaker connections.
Check the Terminal Links
For normal single-wire operation, both crossover sections must be joined using the correctly fitted terminal links.
When bi-wiring or bi-amplifying, switch off the system and remove the links before connecting separate cable runs or amplifier channels.
88.5dB Sensitivity
The Response D20R has a quoted sensitivity of 88.5dB for one watt measured at one metre.
This is reasonably efficient for a high-performance floorstanding loudspeaker and allows the D20R to work with a broad range of sensibly chosen amplifiers.
The amplifier must still provide sufficient control and dynamic headroom for the room size, listening distance and preferred volume.
8-Ohm Nominal Impedance
The nominal impedance is specified at 8 ohms.
This makes the D20R a relatively accommodating electrical load compared with many lower-impedance floorstanding speakers.
Its substantial bass response still benefits from an amplifier with a strong power supply and good control over the loudspeaker drivers.
20W to 180W Recommended Amplification
ProAc recommends amplifiers rated between 20W and 180W per channel.
This broad range allows the D20R to be partnered with everything from carefully chosen lower-powered amplifiers to substantial high-current integrated and pre-power combinations.
Amplifier quality, current delivery and control are more important than simply choosing the largest available wattage figure.
Underpowered Amplifiers Can Also Cause Damage
An amplifier driven beyond its clean operating range can produce clipping and high levels of distortion.
Choose an amplifier with suitable headroom for the room, listening distance and preferred volume rather than relying solely on its headline wattage.
Partnering the D20R with an Amplifier
The D20R’s transparency allows differences between amplifiers and source components to be heard clearly.
A good amplifier should provide bass control, natural midrange tone and sufficient refinement to complement the open presentation of the ribbon tweeter.
Where possible, compare suitable amplifiers using familiar music rather than relying only on specifications or brand reputation.
Positioning the Response D20R
- Begin with both speakers the same distance from the listening position
- Leave space between the speakers and nearby walls
- Keep the downward-firing bass vents clear
- Avoid placing one speaker significantly closer to a corner
- Use the supplied plinth arrangement on a stable floor
- Adjust toe-in to balance image focus and soundstage width
- Make small changes and listen between adjustments
- Recheck positioning after the speakers and system have settled
Toe-In and Ribbon-Tweeter Dispersion
The D20R’s ribbon tweeter has broad horizontal dispersion but a more controlled vertical listening window.
The speakers should therefore be kept upright and level, with the tweeters positioned at a suitable height relative to the seated listener.
Increasing toe-in can strengthen central image focus, while reducing it may create a wider and more relaxed soundstage.
Floor Spikes and Levelling
The D20R’s quoted height of 978mm includes its floor spikes.
The speakers should be carefully levelled so that all contact points are stable and the cabinets cannot rock during use.
Suitable floor protectors should be used beneath the spikes when the speakers are installed on wood, tile or another easily marked surface.
Each Cabinet Weighs Approximately 26kg
The D20R should be unpacked and positioned by two people wherever possible.
Take particular care when fitting or adjusting the spikes, and do not drag the cabinets across the floor.
Slim Floorstanding Cabinet
Each cabinet measures approximately 978mm high on its spikes, 193mm wide and 282mm deep.
The narrow front baffle helps reduce visual impact while supporting precise stereo imaging and wide soundstage presentation.
Despite its relatively slim proportions, each cabinet weighs approximately 26kg, reflecting its substantial construction and internal damping.
Handcrafted in England
ProAc loudspeakers are handcrafted and tested in England.
The cabinet, drivers, crossover, internal wiring and finish are brought together as part of a carefully controlled production process.
This approach allows each speaker pair to be checked before leaving the factory.
Acoustically Transparent Grilles
The D20R is supplied with acoustically transparent crimplene grilles.
ProAc’s current product information states that magnetic grilles are available across all finish options.
The speakers can be used with the grilles fitted or removed according to personal preference and the requirements of the room.
Standard Cabinet Finishes
The Response D20R is available in Black Ash, Mahogany, Cherry, Walnut, Natural Oak and Silk White as standard finishes.
The real-wood veneers are selected and matched to create a consistent appearance across each stereo pair.
Natural variation in grain and tone should be expected because genuine wood veneer is used.
Premium Cabinet Finishes
Rosewood, Ebony and Liquidambar are available to order at additional cost.
Premium finishes may carry longer lead times depending on current production and availability.
The exact finish, price and expected delivery should be confirmed before ordering.
ProAc Response D20R or D20D?
Choose the Response D20R When
- You prefer the speed and openness of a ribbon tweeter
- Fine treble detail and ambience are priorities
- Your amplifier and sources can support high transparency
- You want to match other ribbon-equipped ProAc models
- You value a broad and spacious soundstage
Choose the Response D20D When
- You prefer a traditional silk-dome tweeter
- A smooth and familiar dome presentation is preferred
- Your existing ProAc speakers use dome tweeters
- You listen significantly above or below tweeter height
- You prefer a less visually prominent tweeter
The D20D and D20R share the same cabinet, bass and midrange driver, sensitivity, impedance and bass-loading system.
The most important difference is the high-frequency driver, so a direct demonstration is the best way to establish which version suits the listener and system.
ProAc Response DT8 or Response D20R?
Choose the Response DT8 When
- A lower system price is preferred
- Greater sensitivity is useful
- You prefer the presentation of a silk-dome tweeter
- The dual-driver arrangement suits your music
- A lively and room-filling sound is the priority
Choose the Response D20R When
- A ribbon tweeter is preferred
- Greater treble openness and fine detail are priorities
- A single bass and midrange driver is preferred
- Deeper quoted bass extension is important
- A more spacious and refined presentation is required
The ProAc Response DT8 uses two different 165mm drivers and a silk-dome tweeter, while the D20R combines a single glass-fibre bass and midrange driver with ProAc’s ribbon tweeter.
ProAc Response D20R or Response D30RS?
Choose the Response D20R When
- A slimmer cabinet is important
- The listening room is small to medium sized
- 28Hz bass extension meets your requirements
- A more manageable cabinet weight is useful
- The system budget is better suited to the D20R
Choose the Response D30RS When
- A larger listening room is being used
- Greater bass extension and scale are required
- A more substantial cabinet is acceptable
- Higher output levels are important
- The partnering electronics justify the larger model
The ProAc Response D30RS is a larger ribbon-equipped floorstander with a quoted frequency response extending down to 20Hz.
ProAc Products and Audio T Guides
Key Features
- Premium two-way floorstanding loudspeakers
- Supplied as a stereo pair
- Designed and handcrafted in England
- 165mm ProAc bass and midrange driver
- Excel magnet system
- Glass-fibre weave cone
- Unique acrylic damping phase plug
- 60mm by 10mm ProAc ribbon tweeter
- Extremely lightweight ribbon diaphragm
- Rear-chamber tweeter damping
- Downward-firing reflex port
- Base-mounted side venting
- 28Hz to 33kHz frequency response
- 88.5dB sensitivity
- 8-ohm nominal impedance
- 20W to 180W recommended amplification
- Hand-built crossover
- Selected crossover components
- Dedicated crossover circuit board
- Multistrand oxygen-free internal cable
- Optional bi-wiring
- Optional bi-amplification
- Floorstanding installation
- Height measured on spikes
- Acoustically transparent crimplene grilles
- Magnetic grille availability
- Six standard cabinet finishes
- Three premium finish options
- 978mm-high cabinet on spikes
- Approximately 26kg per speaker
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the ProAc Response D20R speakers sold as a pair?
Yes. The Response D20R is supplied as a pair of passive stereo loudspeakers.
What does the R in D20R mean?
The R identifies the ribbon-tweeter version. The D20D uses ProAc’s 25mm silk-dome tweeter.
Which tweeter does the D20R use?
It uses ProAc’s 60mm by 10mm ribbon tweeter with rear-chamber damping.
Which bass driver does it use?
It uses a 165mm ProAc bass and midrange driver with an Excel magnet system, glass-fibre weave cone and acrylic damping phase plug.
Where is the bass port?
The reflex port fires downwards into the lower plinth, with the output venting through the openings around the base.
Can the speakers be placed close to a wall?
The downward-firing design makes positioning less restrictive than with many rear-ported speakers, but proximity to walls will still affect bass response. Experimentation or a home demonstration is recommended.
What is the frequency response?
ProAc specifies a frequency response of 28Hz to 33kHz.
What is the sensitivity?
The quoted sensitivity is 88.5dB for one watt measured at one metre.
What is the nominal impedance?
The nominal impedance is 8 ohms.
What amplifier power does ProAc recommend?
ProAc recommends amplifiers rated between 20W and 180W per channel.
Will a 20W amplifier drive them?
It may be suitable in a smaller room at moderate listening levels, but amplifier quality, current delivery, listening distance and desired volume must all be considered.
Do they need a powerful amplifier?
The 8-ohm impedance and 88.5dB sensitivity are reasonably accommodating, but the deep bass performs best with an amplifier offering good control and sufficient dynamic headroom.
Can they be bi-wired?
Yes. The split crossover inputs support optional bi-wiring.
Can they be bi-amplified?
Yes, provided the terminal links are removed and the amplifiers and connections are configured correctly.
Do they need a subwoofer?
Not necessarily. Their quoted 28Hz bass extension will be sufficient for many music systems, although a properly integrated subwoofer can provide greater depth and scale.
Do they need to be toed in?
A small amount of toe-in is a useful starting point. Increase it for stronger image focus or reduce it for a wider presentation.
Is listening height important with the ribbon tweeter?
Yes. Ribbon tweeters generally have more controlled vertical dispersion than dome tweeters, so the speakers should be kept upright and the listening position should be reasonably aligned with the tweeters.
What is the difference between the D20R and D20D?
The D20R uses a ribbon tweeter, while the D20D uses a silk-dome tweeter. The cabinet, bass and midrange driver and principal specifications are otherwise shared.
What is the difference between the D20R and DT8?
The D20R uses one glass-fibre bass and midrange driver with a ribbon tweeter. The DT8 uses two different bass and midrange drivers working together with a silk-dome tweeter.
Are grilles included?
Yes. Acoustically transparent crimplene grilles are specified, with magnetic grille availability across the current finish range.
Which standard finishes are available?
ProAc lists Black Ash, Mahogany, Cherry, Walnut, Natural Oak and Silk White as standard finishes.
Which premium finishes are available?
Rosewood, Ebony and Liquidambar are available to order at additional cost.
How large is each speaker?
Each cabinet measures approximately 978mm high on its spikes, 193mm wide and 282mm deep.
How much does each speaker weigh?
ProAc’s current catalogue specifies approximately 26kg per cabinet.
Where are they made?
ProAc loudspeakers are handcrafted and tested in England.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Specialist demonstrations with your own music
- Ribbon and dome tweeter comparisons
- Amplifier and source matching advice
- Room placement and toe-in assistance
- Home demonstrations where available
- Floor spike and levelling guidance
- Bi-wiring and bi-amplification advice
- Speaker cable recommendations
- Subwoofer integration guidance
- Finish and grille advice
- Part-exchange options on suitable equipment
- Ongoing system and setup support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss matching the ProAc Response D20R speakers with your amplifier, room and music system.