Audio T Verdict
The QUAD S-2 takes everything that makes the little S-1 interesting and gives it considerably more breathing room. The same 45 x 12mm true-ribbon principle is partnered here by a larger 125mm woven Kevlar bass/mid driver and a 10.3-litre enclosure, extending useful bass down to a claimed 37Hz while raising sensitivity to 87dB.
That makes the S-2 the S Series standmount we'd lean towards when you have room for a conventional pair of speaker stands and want greater weight, scale and efficiency than the compact S-1 can provide. It is still relatively easy to accommodate at only 330mm tall, yet its low-frequency specification reaches surprisingly deep for a speaker of this size.
The ribbon also makes positioning worth getting right. Put the tweeter close to seated ear height, give the rear-firing reflex port some room to breathe and spend a little time adjusting toe-in. Do that, partner it with a capable amplifier and the S-2 can be a very rewarding alternative to a small floorstander.
QUAD S-2 Ribbon Standmount Speakers
The QUAD S-2 is the larger standmount loudspeaker in the S Series, combining a bespoke true-ribbon tweeter with a 125mm woven Kevlar bass/mid driver and carefully tuned rear-firing reflex enclosure.
It occupies the useful middle ground between the exceptionally compact S-1 and the larger floorstanding models, offering deeper bass and higher sensitivity than the S-1 without requiring the floor space of a full-size tower.
- 2-way standmount loudspeaker
- 45 x 12mm true-ribbon tweeter
- 125mm woven Kevlar bass/mid driver
- Rear-firing bass-reflex port
- 3kHz crossover frequency
- 87dB sensitivity
- 8-ohm nominal impedance
- 4.5-ohm minimum impedance
- 25 to 150W recommended amplifier power
- 48Hz to 22kHz frequency response at ±3dB
- 37Hz bass extension at -6dB
- 10.3-litre cabinet volume
- Separate HF and LF speaker terminals
- Single-wire, bi-wire and bi-amp compatibility
- Layered MDF and high-density particleboard enclosure
- Black Oak, Sapele Mahogany, Piano Black and Piano White finishes
QUAD True-Ribbon Tweeter
The S-2 uses QUAD's bespoke 45 x 12mm true-ribbon tweeter.
Unlike a conventional dome tweeter, where a separate voice coil is attached to the diaphragm, the lightweight conductive ribbon itself operates within the magnetic field and serves as both the electrical conductor and the sound-radiating element.
This greatly reduces the moving mass involved in reproducing high frequencies and allows the ribbon to respond rapidly to small changes in the music signal.
A Modern, More Robust Ribbon
Traditional ribbon tweeters have sometimes gained a reputation for fragility, particularly when driven beyond their intended limits.
QUAD developed the S Series ribbon using a sandwich construction specifically to improve its robustness while retaining the low moving mass that makes the technology attractive.
The ribbon is fully immersed within a powerful magnetic field, allowing it to perform its dual role as voice coil and radiator.
Why a Ribbon Tweeter?
Reducing moving mass allows the high-frequency diaphragm to accelerate and stop very quickly.
In practical loudspeaker design this can contribute to fast transient response and the ability to resolve subtle musical information without relying on an additional voice-coil assembly to move a separate diaphragm.
Controlled Horizontal and Vertical Dispersion
QUAD deliberately shapes the ribbon's dispersion pattern.
Horizontal output remains broad, helping maintain a useful listening area across more than one seat, while vertical dispersion is more tightly controlled.
The reduced vertical spread limits the amount of high-frequency energy being directed towards the floor and ceiling, where early reflections can interfere with the direct sound arriving at the listening position.
Speaker-Stand Height Matters
The S-2's controlled vertical ribbon dispersion means the tweeter should sit approximately at seated ear height. Choosing the correct stand height is therefore part of setting the loudspeaker up properly rather than simply a matter of appearance.
125mm Woven Kevlar Bass/Mid Driver
The S-2 moves up to a larger 125mm woven Kevlar bass/mid driver.
This single cone handles the lower frequencies and the complete midrange before handing over to the ribbon at 3kHz.
The woven Kevlar construction is intended to combine useful rigidity with low moving mass, allowing the cone to maintain controlled behaviour across a relatively broad operating range.
A True 2-Way Design
The S-2 uses one bass/mid driver and one ribbon tweeter.
There is no separate dedicated midrange unit, keeping the crossover architecture simpler through the vocal region than a comparable three-way loudspeaker.
3kHz Crossover Frequency
The crossover point is specified at 3kHz.
Below this point the woven Kevlar driver handles the majority of the music spectrum, while the ribbon takes responsibility for the high frequencies.
The crossover network must manage not only frequency division but also the relative level, phase and electrical behaviour of the two drive units through their overlap region.
Rear-Firing Bass Reflex Port
Like the smaller S-1, the S-2 uses a carefully tuned rear-firing reflex port.
The port uses acoustic energy from the rear of the bass/mid driver to extend useful low-frequency output beyond what the enclosure and driver would normally provide on their own.
The rear-facing arrangement also means that the wall behind the speaker becomes part of the final bass tuning.
37Hz Bass Extension
QUAD specifies bass extension to an impressive 37Hz at -6dB.
The main ±3dB response extends down to 48Hz.
For a standmount loudspeaker only 330mm high and using a single 125mm bass/mid driver, that gives the S-2 genuine low-frequency reach rather than simply upper-bass warmth.
Does the S-2 Need a Subwoofer?
For many stereo systems, no.
With a published -6dB point of 37Hz, the S-2 already reaches low enough to reproduce a substantial proportion of the bass information present in music.
A subwoofer can still be useful where you want greater output in the lowest octave, particularly with organ, electronic music or film soundtracks, but it should be regarded as an optional extension rather than a requirement.
Deeper Bass Than the S-1
The difference between the two S Series standmount models is considerable.
The S-1 is specified to 55Hz at -6dB, while the S-2 reaches 37Hz.
The larger cabinet and 125mm driver therefore provide substantially greater low-frequency extension without moving to a floorstanding enclosure.
87dB Sensitivity
QUAD specifies sensitivity at 87dB measured at 1 metre.
This is 3dB higher than the published sensitivity of the smaller S-1 and gives the S-2 a useful advantage when working with more moderately powered amplification.
Speaker sensitivity is only one part of amplifier matching, however, so minimum impedance and room requirements still matter.
25 to 150W Amplifier Recommendation
The current manufacturer recommendation is 25 to 150 watts.
That deliberately broad range makes the S-2 compatible with many conventional integrated and power amplifiers.
The right choice within that range depends on the amplifier itself, listening distance, room volume and how loudly you normally listen.
Do You Need 150 Watts?
No. The upper figure is a compatibility limit rather than a target. A high-quality 40W, 60W or 80W amplifier may be entirely suitable in the right room, while greater reserves become useful where listening distances and required levels increase.
8-Ohm Nominal Impedance
Nominal impedance is specified at 8 ohms.
The actual electrical load varies with frequency, as it does with almost every passive loudspeaker.
4.5-Ohm Minimum Impedance
The lowest published impedance is 4.5 ohms.
This means amplifier compatibility should not be judged from the 8-ohm nominal figure alone. A suitable amplifier should remain comfortable as the speaker impedance moves lower across parts of the frequency range.
48Hz to 22kHz Frequency Response
The main frequency response is specified at 48Hz to 22kHz within ±3dB.
The upper limit extends beyond the conventional 20kHz audible-band reference, reflecting the wide-bandwidth capability of the ribbon high-frequency driver.
10.3-Litre Cabinet
QUAD's current specification gives the internal enclosure volume as 10.3 litres.
This is substantially greater than the 6.7-litre S-1 enclosure and gives the larger bass/mid driver more air volume to work with.
Compact Enough for Most Rooms
Cabinet dimensions are:
- Height: 330mm
- Width: 180mm
- Cabinet depth: 260mm
- Additional terminal allowance: approximately 30mm
Allow roughly 290mm total physical depth before accounting for the bend radius of your speaker cable and the space needed behind the reflex port.
6.1kg Per Loudspeaker
Each S-2 weighs 6.1kg.
A suitable stand should therefore provide a stable top plate and firm support rather than being chosen solely on height.
Sandwich Cabinet Construction
QUAD builds the S Series cabinet using alternating layers of MDF and high-density particleboard.
The differing mechanical properties of the materials are used as a sandwich structure to help control panel resonance.
The aim is straightforward: the cabinet should provide a rigid mechanical reference for the drive units rather than contributing its own delayed vibration to the music.
Rounded Front and Rear Edges
The upper front and rear edges are rounded, giving the cabinet a softer profile than a conventional square-edged box.
It is a recognisable part of the S Series design and allows the relatively deep cabinet to appear less visually bulky.
Four Current Finish Options
QUAD currently offers the S-2 in:
- Black Oak
- Sapele Mahogany
- Piano Black
- Piano White
Stand Mounting Is the Preferred Setup
QUAD states that the S-1 and S-2 should ideally be installed on dedicated speaker stands.
This gives the S-2 a stable platform, places the ribbon at the appropriate height and allows far greater control over the speaker's distance from surrounding walls.
A rigid shelf can also be used where stand mounting is not practical. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Position the Tweeter at Ear Height
QUAD recommends positioning the tweeters roughly at seated ear level.
This is particularly relevant to the ribbon's controlled vertical dispersion and should be taken into account when selecting stand height. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Start at Least 200mm From the Rear Wall
The manufacturer's recommended starting position places the loudspeaker at least 200mm from the wall behind it.
Moving the rear-ported S-2 closer to the wall increases bass reinforcement, while placing it too close can make the bass less distinct. Moving it further into the room will generally reduce boundary reinforcement and can improve bass definition. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Tune the Bass With Placement First
Before changing cables, amplifiers or adding a subwoofer, experiment with the S-2's distance from the rear wall. Even relatively small changes can alter low-frequency weight and definition substantially with a rear-ported standmount.
Start Around 300mm From Side Walls
QUAD uses approximately 300mm from the side walls as an initial setup recommendation.
This should be treated as a starting point rather than a rigid requirement because every room and listening position is different. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Two to Three Metres Apart
For a conventional stereo setup, QUAD recommends beginning with the loudspeakers approximately two to three metres apart and equidistant from the listening seat. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Smaller rooms may naturally require reduced spacing.
Toe the Speakers In
The S-2 should be angled slightly towards the listener.
QUAD also notes that speakers positioned further from surrounding walls may tolerate greater inward angling, although too much toe-in can narrow the optimum listening area. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
The right angle is best established with familiar music rather than a ruler.
Separate HF and LF Terminals
The crossover network is divided into separate high-frequency and low-frequency sections, each with its own pair of speaker terminals.
The upper pair connects to the ribbon network and the lower pair to the bass/mid section. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Conventional Single-Wire Connection
For ordinary single-wiring, the supplied metal straps link the HF and LF terminal sections together.
One speaker cable can therefore feed both sections from a conventional amplifier output.
QUAD instructs users to leave the links fitted for a standard installation. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Bi-Wiring
Bi-wiring uses separate cable runs from the same amplifier channel to the HF and LF terminals.
The metal terminal links must be removed first.
QUAD's S Series manual specifically advocates bi-wiring where practical, although conventional single-wiring remains fully supported. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Remove the Links Before Bi-Wiring
When using separate HF and LF cable runs, remove the factory linking straps between the terminal pairs. Leave them securely fitted when using a conventional single-wire connection.
Bi-Amplification
The separated crossover sections also allow the S-2 to be bi-amplified with suitable equipment.
This gives the HF and LF networks their own amplifier channels rather than simply their own cable runs.
Amplifier gain and configuration need to be considered carefully, so this is something we would recommend planning as a complete system rather than connecting experimentally. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Correct Speaker Polarity
Both loudspeakers should be connected with matching polarity: amplifier positive to speaker positive and amplifier negative to speaker negative.
If one loudspeaker is connected out of phase, central imaging and bass definition can deteriorate significantly. QUAD specifically identifies incorrect phase as a possible cause of indistinct bass and poor definition. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
Around 50 Hours of Running In
QUAD recommends approximately 50 hours of normal use for its S Series loudspeakers to run in.
There is no need to run them continuously or play them unusually loudly. Normal music at sensible levels is sufficient. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
Amplifier Headroom Matters
QUAD's manual cautions against using an amplifier simply because it has a very low power rating.
An underpowered amplifier driven beyond its capabilities can clip and produce damaging distortion. The manufacturer notes that an amplifier with greater usable reserves can often sound better and improve reliability when used sensibly. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
S-2 or S-1?
Both standmount models use the same basic S Series ribbon technology, but they are intended for different rooms and priorities.
QUAD S-1
- 100mm woven Kevlar driver
- 45 x 12mm true ribbon
- 84dB published sensitivity
- 58Hz - 20kHz response
- 55Hz bass extension
- 6.7-litre enclosure
- 285mm high
- Best where compact size is critical
QUAD S-2
- 125mm woven Kevlar driver
- 45 x 12mm true ribbon
- 87dB published sensitivity
- 48Hz - 22kHz response
- 37Hz bass extension
- 10.3-litre enclosure
- 330mm high
- Greater bass depth and scale
If you need the smallest possible cabinet, the QUAD S-1 is the obvious choice. Where you have room for the larger enclosure, the S-2 offers a significant increase in low-frequency extension and published sensitivity.
S-2 or a Small Floorstander?
The S-2's 37Hz published bass extension means it deserves comparison with some compact floorstanding speakers rather than being dismissed as a lightweight bookshelf model.
A standmount and floorstander interact differently with the room, however. The S-2 gives you greater freedom to choose stand height and adjust the complete speaker position, while a floorstander may offer greater radiating area and output capability.
The best choice depends on the room rather than the category label.
Suitable for Stereo and Home Cinema
The S-2 is primarily a stereo standmount loudspeaker, but the wider S Series also includes matching centre and floorstanding models.
QUAD's manual provides for S-1 and S-2 models to be used as effect channels within an S Series multichannel system where appropriate. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
Who Is the QUAD S-2 For?
The S-2 makes particular sense if you want:
- A serious standmount without an oversized cabinet
- Ribbon high-frequency reproduction
- Greater bass extension than the compact S-1
- A speaker that can work in small to medium-sized rooms
- Useful sensitivity without moving to a floorstander
- Bi-wire or bi-amp capability
- A loudspeaker that rewards careful stand placement
- A choice of real-wood-style and high-gloss finishes
- A matching speaker within a wider QUAD S Series system
Key Features
- QUAD S-2
- 2-way standmount loudspeaker
- Rear-vented reflex enclosure
- 45 x 12mm true-ribbon tweeter
- Ribbon sandwich construction
- Controlled horizontal dispersion
- Controlled vertical dispersion
- 125mm woven Kevlar bass/mid driver
- 3kHz crossover frequency
- 87dB sensitivity
- 8-ohm nominal impedance
- 4.5-ohm minimum impedance
- 25 to 150W recommended amplifier power
- 48Hz - 22kHz frequency response
- 37Hz bass extension at -6dB
- 10.3-litre cabinet volume
- 330mm cabinet height
- 180mm cabinet width
- 260mm cabinet depth
- Approximately 30mm additional terminal allowance
- 6.1kg net weight per speaker
- Layered MDF and high-density particleboard cabinet
- Separate HF and LF terminals
- Single-wire connection
- Bi-wire capability
- Bi-amp capability
- Stand mounting recommended
- Approximately 50-hour running-in period
- Black Oak finish
- Sapele Mahogany finish
- Piano Black finish
- Piano White finish
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the QUAD S-2 still current?
Yes. The S-2 remains part of QUAD's current S Series.
Is the S-2 a bookshelf or standmount speaker?
QUAD's product classification calls it a bookshelf speaker, while its operating manual states that the S-2 should ideally be stand mounted. Audio T describes it as a standmount because that is the preferred Hi-Fi installation.
Is it a 2-way speaker?
Yes. One 125mm woven Kevlar bass/mid driver is partnered by one true-ribbon tweeter.
What size is the ribbon tweeter?
45 x 12mm.
Is it a genuine ribbon tweeter?
Yes. QUAD specifies a true-ribbon high-frequency driver.
How does the ribbon work?
The lightweight conductive ribbon operates within a powerful magnetic field and serves as both electrical conductor and sound radiator rather than driving a separate dome through a conventional voice coil.
Is the ribbon delicate?
QUAD developed the S Series ribbon with a sandwich construction specifically to improve robustness compared with more traditional delicate ribbon designs. Sensible amplifier use is still required.
What size is the bass/mid driver?
125mm.
What is the cone made from?
Woven Kevlar.
Is the S-2 rear ported?
Yes. The standmount S Series models use tuned rear-firing reflex ports.
What is the crossover frequency?
3kHz.
What is the sensitivity?
QUAD's current S-2 specification gives 87dB at 1 metre.
What amplifier power does QUAD recommend?
25 to 150W.
Do I need a 150W amplifier?
No. That is the upper end of the recommended range, not a target. The appropriate amplifier depends on room size, listening distance and required level.
What is the nominal impedance?
8 ohms.
What is the minimum impedance?
4.5 ohms.
What is the frequency response?
48Hz to 22kHz at ±3dB.
How deep does the bass go?
QUAD specifies bass extension to 37Hz at -6dB.
Does it need a subwoofer?
Not necessarily. Its 37Hz published bass extension is substantial for a standmount. A subwoofer remains an optional addition if greater very-low-frequency output is wanted.
What is the cabinet volume?
10.3 litres according to QUAD's current dedicated product specification.
How big is the S-2?
330mm high, 180mm wide and 260mm deep, plus approximately 30mm for the rear terminal assembly.
How much does each speaker weigh?
6.1kg.
Should the S-2 be used on stands?
Yes. QUAD states that stand mounting is the preferred arrangement.
Can it go on a shelf?
Yes. QUAD allows use on a suitably rigid shelf that is separate from the rest of the system, provided sufficient space is left around the rear port.
How far from the rear wall should it be?
At least approximately 200mm is QUAD's recommended starting point.
What happens if I move it closer to the wall?
Bass reinforcement increases, but placing it too close can make the bass less distinct.
How far from the side walls?
Approximately 300mm is QUAD's recommended starting point.
How far apart should the speakers be?
QUAD suggests approximately two to three metres for a conventional stereo installation, with both speakers equidistant from the listener.
Should they be toed in?
Yes. QUAD recommends a slight inward angle towards the listening position, adjusted by ear.
Where should the ribbon tweeter be vertically?
Roughly at seated ear height.
Can the S-2 be bi-wired?
Yes. Separate HF and LF terminal pairs are provided.
Do the terminal links stay in place for single-wiring?
Yes.
Do I remove the links for bi-wiring?
Yes. Remove the metal links before connecting separate HF and LF cable runs.
Does QUAD recommend bi-wiring?
The current S Series manual strongly advocates it where practical, although conventional single-wiring is fully supported.
Can the S-2 be bi-amplified?
Yes, with suitable amplification and correct gain/configuration.
How long does the S-2 take to run in?
QUAD recommends approximately 50 hours of normal use.
Can the S-2 be used in a home cinema system?
Yes. QUAD's S Series manual provides for S-1 and S-2 models to be used as effect speakers within suitable multichannel systems.
What finishes are available?
Black Oak, Sapele Mahogany, Piano Black and Piano White.
What is the main difference between the S-1 and S-2?
The S-2 has a larger 125mm bass/mid driver and 10.3-litre cabinet, higher published sensitivity and substantially deeper bass extension. The S-1 is the more compact option where space is the priority.
Related QUAD Products
Why Buy the QUAD S-2 From Audio T?
A standmount loudspeaker only performs as well as the system and room around it. With the S-2, amplifier current capability, stand height, rear-wall distance, toe-in and the choice between conventional single-wiring and more elaborate configurations can all influence the final result.
Audio T can demonstrate the S-2 with appropriately matched amplification, compare it directly with the smaller S-1 and help position it properly in relation to your room and listening seat.
- In-store demonstrations
- Amplifier matching
- Speaker sensitivity guidance
- 4.5-ohm minimum-impedance matching
- Speaker-stand selection
- Correct tweeter-height setup
- Rear-wall positioning guidance
- Side-wall positioning guidance
- Toe-in and stereo-image setup
- Single-wire and bi-wire guidance
- Bi-amplification advice
- Speaker-cable and termination advice
- S-1 versus S-2 demonstrations
- Subwoofer integration where appropriate
- Stereo and home-cinema system planning
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss whether the QUAD S-2 is the right standmount loudspeaker for your amplifier, room and listening habits.