Audio T Verdict
The DALI OPTICON 8 MK2 are the flagship floorstanding speakers in the OPTICON MK2 range, designed to deliver deep bass, high output and large-scale dynamics in substantial listening rooms.
Each cabinet combines two dedicated 8-inch bass drivers with a separate 6½-inch midrange unit. All three use DALI's paper and wood-fibre cone material and patented Soft Magnetic Composite motor technology, helping reduce distortion while allowing each driver to concentrate on a more carefully defined part of the frequency range.
The two widely spaced woofers provide the radiating area and cabinet loading required for powerful low frequencies. The dedicated midrange driver is positioned between them, placing voices and instruments closer to seated ear height while isolating them from the larger movements required for deep bass.
A hybrid tweeter module combines a 29mm soft dome with a 17 × 45mm planar element. The soft dome handles the main high-frequency range, while the planar driver contributes above 14kHz to add very-high-frequency extension, air and broad horizontal dispersion.
Separate internal chambers and non-parallel dividing panels increase cabinet rigidity and prevent the bass drivers from interfering directly with the dedicated midrange enclosure. Each 8-inch woofer also has its own rear Dual Flare bass-reflex port.
The 29.5Hz reflex tuning and large cabinet volume help produce a specified frequency response extending down to 38Hz. A maximum output of 112dB gives the OPTICON 8 MK2 the headroom required for demanding music and home cinema in larger rooms.
The speakers need space to perform correctly. DALI recommends between 30cm and 150cm from the rear wall, and their 34kg weight means that installation and final positioning should be planned carefully.
Sensitivity is a useful 88.5dB, but the 4-ohm nominal impedance and substantial driver system still deserve capable amplification. DALI recommends between 40W and 300W, with amplifier current delivery and control being at least as important as the headline power figure.
For listeners with the room and system to accommodate them, the OPTICON 8 MK2 offer considerable bass authority, a clear dedicated midrange and the open, spacious treble presentation associated with DALI's hybrid tweeter technology.
DALI OPTICON 8 MK2 Floorstanding Speakers
The DALI OPTICON 8 MK2 are large passive floorstanding loudspeakers designed for substantial stereo and home cinema systems.
They require connection to a suitable stereo amplifier, pre and power amplifier system or AV receiver and do not contain built-in amplification, Bluetooth or network streaming.
Each speaker contains two 8-inch bass drivers, one dedicated 6½-inch midrange driver, a 29mm soft-dome tweeter and a 17 × 45mm planar high-frequency element.
The cabinets are manufactured, assembled and tested in Denmark and are supplied with cast aluminium floor supports, spikes and vibration-damping feet.
A Separate Amplifier Is Required
The DALI OPTICON 8 MK2 are passive loudspeakers and cannot play music directly from a phone, television, turntable, streamer or computer.
A suitable amplifier must provide both the power required by the speakers and the connections needed by the chosen source components.
- No built-in amplifier
- No Bluetooth
- No Wi-Fi or Ethernet
- No network music services
- No HDMI ARC
- No optical or coaxial digital input
- No built-in phono stage
- No headphone output
A conventional integrated amplifier, high-powered streaming amplifier or separate pre and power amplifier system can be used, provided that it is stable with a 4-ohm loudspeaker load.
Flagship OPTICON MK2 Floorstander
The OPTICON 8 MK2 sit at the top of the OPTICON MK2 range and are its only model to use separate bass and midrange drivers.
The true three-way architecture allows DALI to optimise the twin 8-inch woofers for low frequencies while the smaller 6½-inch driver concentrates on the midrange.
This reduces the need for one driver to reproduce both very deep bass and fine vocal or instrumental detail.
The hybrid tweeter then extends the system into the highest frequencies, creating the additional half-way element within DALI's 3 + ½-way description.
3 + ½-Way Crossover Design
The crossover operates at 380Hz, 2,200Hz and 14,000Hz.
The twin 8-inch woofers reproduce the low frequencies before handing over to the dedicated 6½-inch midrange driver at approximately 380Hz.
The midrange driver then operates through the vocal and instrumental range before crossing to the 29mm soft-dome tweeter at approximately 2,200Hz.
The planar element joins the soft dome at approximately 14,000Hz to extend the highest frequencies and support wide horizontal dispersion.
Two Dedicated 8-Inch Bass Drivers
Each OPTICON 8 MK2 cabinet contains two dedicated 8-inch bass drivers.
Their combined radiating area allows the speaker to move a substantial volume of air, producing the weight, scale and physical impact required in larger rooms.
Because the woofers are not required to reproduce the main vocal and instrumental midrange, their parameters can be optimised more specifically for low-frequency output.
Each bass driver operates within its own internal cabinet section and is partnered with its own Dual Flare reflex port.
Widely Spaced Bass Drivers
The two bass drivers are positioned above and below the central midrange and tweeter section.
This arrangement places the dedicated midrange and high-frequency drivers at a suitable height for seated listening.
The greater physical distance between the woofers also changes how the low-frequency energy couples to the room, helping produce a smoother distribution of bass than placing both drivers together at one end of the cabinet.
Final performance will still depend strongly on the room, speaker position and listening seat.
Dedicated 6½-Inch Midrange Driver
A separate 6½-inch driver reproduces the midrange between approximately 380Hz and 2,200Hz.
This range contains much of the information that defines voices, guitars, strings, piano and many other instruments.
Separating the midrange from the large bass drivers prevents vocal and instrumental detail from sharing a diaphragm that is also making the long movements required for deep bass.
The dedicated driver contributes to the OPTICON 8 MK2's clarity, image focus and ability to preserve detail during complex or high-level passages.
Closed Midrange Chamber
The midrange driver operates within its own closed internal section.
This isolates it from the pressure changes generated by the twin 8-inch woofers and their reflex systems.
Preventing the bass drivers from directly modulating the midrange enclosure helps maintain cleaner movement and greater consistency.
The dedicated chamber also forms part of the internal bracing structure.
Paper and Wood-Fibre Cones
All three cone drivers combine paper pulp with reinforcing wood fibres.
The material is intended to produce a lightweight but rigid diaphragm with useful natural damping.
The irregular distribution of the fibres helps prevent one narrow area of the cone from developing a strong and predictable resonance.
This supports controlled bass and a natural, open midrange without requiring excessive electrical correction from the crossover.
Patented Soft Magnetic Composite Technology
The bass and midrange driver motors use DALI's patented Soft Magnetic Composite material within their pole pieces.
SMC is a coated magnetic material with high magnetic permeability and very low electrical conductivity.
Its use helps reduce eddy currents, magnetic hysteresis and variations in voice-coil inductance as the drivers move.
The intended result is lower electro-acoustic distortion, reduced masking of fine detail and a cleaner, more relaxed presentation.
SMC Is Part of the Complete Driver System
Soft Magnetic Composite operates alongside the ferrite magnets, voice coils, wood-fibre cones, rubber surrounds and crossover.
The final result comes from these elements working together rather than from one material operating independently.
Full SMC Pole Pieces
The pole piece within each bass and midrange motor is manufactured from DALI's Soft Magnetic Composite material.
A large ferrite ring magnet surrounds each pole piece and provides the fixed magnetic field required by the voice coil.
Using SMC throughout the pole-piece structure reduces electrical conductivity and unwanted magnetic effects within the voice coil's working area.
This is a more extensive implementation than driver systems using only a smaller SMC insert.
Large Ferrite Ring Magnets
Each cone driver uses a substantial ferrite ring magnet surrounding its SMC pole piece.
The amplifier sends a changing electrical current through the voice coil, which interacts with this fixed magnetic field and moves the diaphragm.
The strength and consistency of the field influence control, distortion and dynamic response.
The motor systems are designed to maintain accurate movement during both fine musical information and high-output bass transients.
Low-Loss Driver Suspension
Soft and flexible rubber surrounds control the outer edges of the cone diaphragms.
The suspension must allow the drivers to respond to small changes in the signal while retaining control during larger movements.
Excessive mechanical resistance can obscure low-level detail, while insufficient control can allow the cones to behave inconsistently as output increases.
DALI's low-loss approach is intended to preserve timing, detail and musical dynamics.
Die-Cast Aluminium Driver Chassis
The bass and midrange drivers use rigid die-cast aluminium chassis.
The chassis hold the magnets, voice coils and suspension systems in accurate alignment while allowing air to move behind the diaphragms.
The cabinet cut-outs are relieved between the fixing points to reduce restriction and improve airflow.
This helps limit compression behind the cones as their movement increases.
DALI Hybrid Tweeter Module
The hybrid tweeter combines a 29mm soft textile dome with a 17 × 45mm planar element.
The soft dome handles the main high-frequency range and provides the output, dynamics and lower-frequency reach required to integrate with the midrange driver.
The planar element operates at the highest frequencies, adding extension, fine detail and broad horizontal dispersion.
Both elements are mounted on one rigid cast aluminium faceplate.
29mm Soft-Dome Tweeter
The soft-dome tweeter is derived from the high-frequency driver developed for DALI's CALLISTO C range.
Its relatively large 29mm diaphragm allows it to operate comfortably down to the 2,200Hz crossover region.
This provides a smooth handover from the dedicated 6½-inch midrange driver while maintaining useful power handling.
The lightweight coated textile dome is designed to reproduce percussion, vocal detail, string harmonics and recorded ambience cleanly.
CALLISTO-Derived Tweeter Technology
The soft-dome design represents an important revision over the tweeter used by the original OPTICON range.
DALI specifies reduced distortion, increased power handling and an extended lower operating range.
The same 29mm dome is used throughout the OPTICON MK2 family, supporting consistent tonal character in multichannel systems.
17 × 45mm Planar Tweeter
A custom 17 × 45mm planar element contributes above approximately 14kHz.
Its extremely lightweight diaphragm can respond rapidly to small changes in the musical signal.
The planar driver extends the overall response to 30kHz and helps preserve broad horizontal dispersion at frequencies where a conventional dome would become increasingly directional.
This contributes to the OPTICON 8 MK2's open and spacious high-frequency presentation.
Wide Horizontal Dispersion
The planar element has broad horizontal dispersion and more controlled vertical radiation.
This helps spread high-frequency detail across a wider seating area while limiting unnecessary interaction with the floor and ceiling.
The arrangement allows more than one person to hear a balanced presentation without everyone occupying one exact central position.
Cast Aluminium Tweeter Faceplate
Both high-frequency elements are mounted within a rigid cast aluminium faceplate.
The faceplate provides a stable mechanical foundation and helps reduce vibration around the tweeter assembly.
Its shaped surface incorporates dispersion-control detailing intended to support smooth off-axis response.
DALI Wide Dispersion Sound Principle
The OPTICON 8 MK2 follow DALI's Wide Dispersion Sound Principle.
The drivers and hybrid tweeter are designed to produce an even response across a broad horizontal area rather than concentrating sound into one narrow listening position.
This helps several listeners hear a consistent tonal balance and allows reflected sound within the room to retain a more natural character.
Begin with the Speakers Facing Straight Ahead
DALI generally recommends positioning its speakers parallel with the wall behind them rather than angling them strongly towards the main listening seat.
This supports the intended wide-dispersion behaviour. Small adjustments can still be tried where the room layout or listening distance requires them.
Broad and Stable Stereo Imaging
A correctly positioned pair of OPTICON 8 MK2 speakers can create a soundstage extending well beyond the physical cabinets.
Vocals should appear between the speakers, while instruments and recorded ambience occupy positions across the width and depth of the presentation.
Matching distances from the main listening position and broadly similar surroundings around each cabinet help preserve this effect.
The dedicated midrange driver also contributes to stable image placement by removing the main vocal range from the large bass drivers.
Separate Internal Cabinet Sections
The cabinet is divided into separate internal sections using non-parallel panels.
Each driver can therefore operate within an acoustic volume developed for its role rather than sharing one large undivided enclosure.
The dividing panels also increase cabinet rigidity and reduce the formation of simple internal standing waves.
The midrange section remains closed, while each bass-driver chamber has its own reflex port.
Two Rear Dual Flare Bass-Reflex Ports
Each 8-inch woofer is partnered with its own rear-facing Dual Flare bass-reflex port.
The ports use acoustic energy generated inside the bass chambers to reinforce output around their tuned operating region.
Flared entry and exit profiles reduce abrupt changes in airflow and help minimise turbulence, compression and audible port noise.
The separate port arrangement allows each woofer and cabinet section to operate as a closely controlled system.
29.5Hz Bass-Reflex Tuning
The bass-reflex system is tuned to 29.5Hz.
This unusually low tuning frequency supports the output of the twin 8-inch woofers at the bottom of their operating range.
The ports, internal chambers, driver parameters and crossover have been developed together to produce extended but controlled low frequencies.
38Hz Low-Frequency Extension
DALI specifies a frequency response extending down to 38Hz within plus or minus 3dB.
This allows the OPTICON 8 MK2 to reproduce substantial weight and scale with bass guitars, drums, orchestral recordings, electronic music and film soundtracks.
The lowest pipe-organ fundamentals and dedicated cinema effects can still extend below this point.
An active subwoofer remains worthwhile where the deepest low-frequency effects or greater physical impact are required.
112dB Maximum Output
DALI specifies a maximum sound-pressure level of 112dB at one metre.
This gives the OPTICON 8 MK2 the output capability required for larger rooms and demanding musical or cinematic peaks.
Maximum output should not be confused with a recommended continuous listening level.
If the presentation becomes harsh, compressed or distorted, reduce the amplifier volume immediately.
Protect Your Hearing
Sustained exposure to high sound levels can cause permanent hearing damage.
Increase the volume gradually and use sensible listening levels, particularly when sitting close to the speakers.
25mm-Thick Front Baffle
The five drive units are mounted within a substantial 25mm-thick front baffle.
The baffle provides a rigid foundation and helps resist the reaction forces generated as the driver diaphragms move.
A stable mounting surface reduces unwanted vibration and allows the drivers to reproduce the amplifier signal more accurately.
Internally Braced Cabinet
The large MDF enclosure uses substantial internal bracing in addition to its separate driver chambers.
Cabinet vibration can add sound that was not present in the recording, reducing detail and making bass notes less precise.
The internal panels and 25mm front baffle help create a stable platform for the drivers, crossover and reflex systems.
Manufactured in Denmark
The OPTICON 8 MK2 cabinets are manufactured and assembled at DALI's production facilities in Denmark.
DALI carries out cabinet cutting, routing, surface finishing, driver installation, crossover installation and final testing within its own manufacturing process.
This allows the company to retain direct control over construction and final quality assurance.
Pair-Matched Assembly
Each stereo pair is built and tested sequentially by one technician.
Components are taken in the same order from the same production batch to improve consistency between the two cabinets.
The approach is intended to provide close visual matching and balanced acoustic performance across the stereo pair.
Removable Front Grilles
The supplied full-length grilles protect the drivers and provide a more discreet appearance.
The OPTICON 8 MK2 can be used with or without their grilles according to personal preference.
Removing them exposes the wood-fibre cones and hybrid tweeter module.
Handle the grilles carefully and avoid touching the soft dome, planar diaphragm or cone surfaces.
Cast Aluminium Floor Supports
Cast aluminium support bars attach to the base of each cabinet.
They widen the speaker's footprint and improve stability without requiring the complete enclosure to become broader.
The outriggers also provide secure mounting positions for the supplied spikes or vibration-damping feet.
Follow DALI's assembly instructions and use the supplied tools.
Supplied M8 Floor Spikes
Black-chromed M8 spikes are supplied for suitable carpeted floors.
The spikes pass through the carpet and create a stable mechanical contact with the solid surface below.
They can damage wood, laminate, tile and other hard flooring.
Protect Hard Flooring
Do not place exposed spikes directly onto wood, laminate, tile, vinyl or another easily marked surface.
Use the supplied vibration-damping feet or suitable protective floor cups and make sure that each cabinet remains level and stable.
Vibration-Damping Feet
Vibration-damping feet are supplied as an alternative to the metal spikes.
They are suitable for hard or delicate flooring where a pointed metal contact could cause damage.
The best option will depend on the floor construction, stability and final installation.
30cm to 150cm Rear-Wall Placement
DALI recommends positioning the rear of each cabinet between 30cm and 150cm from the wall behind it.
Moving the speakers closer to the wall generally increases perceived bass, while bringing them further into the room can reduce excess weight and improve definition.
The wide recommended range allows the final position to be adjusted according to the room, listening seat and desired tonal balance.
The OPTICON 8 MK2 are not intended to be pushed tightly against a wall.
Keep Both Reflex Ports Clear
Do not press curtains, furniture or soft furnishings against the two rear bass-reflex ports.
Restricted airflow can reduce bass performance and increase turbulence or unwanted port noise.
Large-Room Placement
The extended low-frequency response and high output capability make the OPTICON 8 MK2 best suited to larger listening rooms.
They benefit from space around the cabinets and sufficient distance between the speakers and listening position.
In a small room, the twin 8-inch woofers may excite room resonances strongly and make the bass difficult to control.
A demonstration or home assessment is particularly valuable before choosing a speaker of this size.
Room and Boundary Interaction
Low frequencies interact strongly with walls, corners, floors and the position of the listening seat.
Placing the speakers close to corners can increase bass quantity but may also exaggerate particular frequencies.
Moving either cabinet or the listening position by a relatively small distance can make a noticeable difference to bass smoothness.
Final placement should therefore be determined by listening rather than visual symmetry alone.
Bi-Wire Speaker Terminals
Each speaker provides separate terminal pairs for the bass section and the midrange and high-frequency section.
For conventional single-wire operation, the supplied terminal links remain installed and one amplifier channel drives the complete loudspeaker.
Bi-wiring uses separate cable runs from the same amplifier channel to the two terminal sections.
Any audible benefit will depend on the amplifier, cables and complete installation.
Bi-Amplifier Operation
The separate terminal sections also support passive bi-amplifier operation.
Separate amplifier channels drive the bass section and the midrange and high-frequency section while the internal passive crossover remains active.
The terminal links must be removed before connecting separate amplifier channels.
Remove the Links Before Bi-Amplifying
Leaving the metal links installed while connecting separate amplifier channels can join their outputs together and may cause serious equipment damage.
Check amplifier gain, compatibility and the complete wiring arrangement before switching on.
Gold-Plated Binding Posts
The speaker terminals are gold plated to reduce surface oxidation at the electrical contact points.
They accept common cable terminations, including correctly prepared bare wire, compatible 4mm plugs and spade connectors.
All connections should be secure without being overtightened.
Correct Loudspeaker Polarity
The positive amplifier terminal must connect to the positive speaker terminal, with the negative terminals connected in the same way.
Reversing one speaker places the pair out of phase, weakening bass and making the central stereo image unfocused.
Use the same loudspeaker-cable type and approximately equal cable lengths for both channels.
Switch the Amplifier Off Before Connecting
Switch off the amplifier before connecting, disconnecting or changing loudspeaker cables.
Make sure that no loose strands of bare wire can touch a neighbouring terminal and cause a short circuit.
4-Ohm Nominal Impedance
DALI specifies a nominal impedance of 4 ohms.
A 4-ohm loudspeaker generally asks more current from an amplifier than an 8-ohm design at a comparable output voltage.
The amplifier should therefore be stable with a 4-ohm load and provided with adequate ventilation.
Nominal impedance is an overall rating rather than a statement that the speaker remains exactly 4 ohms at every frequency.
Check Amplifier Compatibility
Do not assume that every integrated amplifier, streaming amplifier or AV receiver is comfortable driving a large 4-ohm loudspeaker.
Check the amplifier specification and arrange a demonstration where there is any uncertainty.
88.5dB Sensitivity
The OPTICON 8 MK2 have a sensitivity of 88.5dB for a 2.83V input measured at one metre.
This allows them to produce useful volume without requiring extreme amplifier power, although their 4-ohm impedance and five-driver system still place importance on current delivery.
Listening distance, room size, musical material and preferred volume all affect how hard the amplifier must work.
A capable amplifier can provide tighter bass, greater dynamic freedom and improved composure as the listening level increases.
Recommended Amplifier Power
DALI recommends amplifier power between 40W and 300W.
The broad wattage range provides a starting point rather than a guarantee of compatibility or performance.
Amplifier current delivery, power-supply quality, distortion behaviour and stability into 4 ohms are equally important.
A clean and controlled amplifier is generally safer than a lower-powered design driven repeatedly into clipping.
Choose the Amplifier by Listening
Two amplifiers carrying the same published power rating can behave very differently with the OPTICON 8 MK2.
A demonstration with the intended amplifier provides a better indication of bass control, tonal balance, scale and available headroom.
Adding an Active Subwoofer
The OPTICON 8 MK2 provide deep bass for a passive floorstanding speaker, but an active subwoofer can extend the system below their natural 38Hz limit.
The subwoofer requires a suitable connection from the amplifier, such as a dedicated subwoofer output, variable pre-amplifier output or another supported method.
Careful crossover, level, phase and placement adjustment are required so that the subwoofer extends the speakers without becoming detached or overpowering them.
A subwoofer is especially useful for the dedicated low-frequency effects channel in a home cinema system.
Stereo Music Systems
The OPTICON 8 MK2 can form the main loudspeaker pair within a substantial stereo system.
Suitable sources may include a turntable, CD player, network streamer, television or computer, provided that the amplifier offers the required inputs.
A powerful streaming amplifier can create a relatively simple system, while separate pre and power amplifiers provide greater flexibility and potential headroom.
The scale of the speakers makes careful amplifier and room matching particularly important.
Television Sound
The OPTICON 8 MK2 can provide a dramatic improvement over built-in television sound when partnered with a suitable amplifier.
An amplifier with HDMI ARC provides convenient control with many modern televisions, while optical digital input is another common option.
The speakers themselves cannot connect directly to an HDMI or optical output.
Their size and output may be excessive for casual television listening in a small room.
Home Cinema Use
The OPTICON 8 MK2 make powerful front left and right channels within a high-performance home cinema system.
The DALI OPTICON VOKAL MK2 provides a tonally matched centre-channel option.
An AV receiver or power amplifier must provide sufficient current and remain stable with the speakers' 4-ohm nominal impedance.
An active subwoofer can handle the dedicated LFE channel and the deepest bass redirected from the other speakers.
OPTICON 8 MK2 or OPTICON 6 MK2?
Choose the OPTICON 6 MK2 When
- You want the slimmer and more manageable floorstander
- The room is medium sized
- Twin 6½-inch drivers provide sufficient scale
- A 49Hz lower frequency limit meets your needs
- 25W to 200W amplifier matching is appropriate
- Satin White is the preferred finish
- You want to keep the system cost lower
Choose the OPTICON 8 MK2 When
- You want the flagship OPTICON MK2 model
- Twin 8-inch bass drivers are appropriate
- You want a dedicated 6½-inch midrange driver
- A deeper 38Hz response is important
- The room is large
- 40W to 300W amplifier matching is suitable
- The 34kg cabinets can be accommodated safely
The DALI OPTICON 6 MK2 are considerably slimmer and easier to position while retaining full SMC motors and DALI's hybrid tweeter.
The OPTICON 8 MK2 add larger dedicated woofers, a separate midrange driver, deeper extension and substantially greater room-filling scale.
OPTICON 8 MK2 or SONIK 9?
Choose the SONIK 9 When
- You want the newer and more affordable DALI range
- Three 7-inch Clarity Cone drivers appeal
- 6-ohm nominal impedance better suits the amplifier
- You want four contemporary finish options
- The overall system budget is more restricted
- You want current SMC Essential technology
- The room does not require twin 8-inch bass drivers
Choose the OPTICON 8 MK2 When
- You want dedicated bass and midrange drivers
- You want full SMC pole-piece technology
- Danish manufacture and pair matching are important
- You want 38Hz published bass extension
- Bi-wiring or bi-amplification is required
- You are using more ambitious amplification
- Cabinet construction and maximum scale take priority
The DALI SONIK 9 offer a more affordable route to a large DALI floorstanding system using newer Clarity Cone and SMC Essential technology.
The OPTICON 8 MK2 provide a true dedicated midrange, twin 8-inch bass drivers, full SMC pole pieces and more substantial Danish-made construction.
OPTICON 8 MK2 or RUBIKORE 8?
Choose the OPTICON 8 MK2 When
- You want the lower purchase price
- Twin 8-inch bass drivers suit the room
- A dedicated midrange is important
- The established OPTICON hybrid tweeter meets your needs
- You want bi-wire or bi-amplifier terminals
- Satin Black or Tobacco Oak is preferred
- You want to reserve more budget for amplification
Choose the RUBIKORE 8 When
- You want newer KORE-derived driver technology
- Clarity Cone diaphragms are important
- You want SMC-KORE crossover inductors
- The latest low-loss hybrid tweeter is preferred
- Continuous Flare ports appeal
- Premium lacquer or natural veneer finishes are required
- The complete system justifies the higher investment
The DALI RUBIKORE 8 sit significantly further up the range and introduce technologies inspired by DALI's KORE and EPIKORE loudspeakers.
The OPTICON 8 MK2 remain the more accessible route to a very large Danish-made DALI floorstander with dedicated bass, midrange and hybrid high-frequency drivers.
System Matching
Well Suited To
- Large listening rooms
- Substantial floorstanding stereo systems
- Powerful integrated amplifiers
- High-current streaming amplifiers
- Pre and power amplifier systems
- Turntable and CD-based systems
- Network music streamers
- High-performance television systems
- Home cinema front channels
- Systems using a matching OPTICON centre speaker
- Bi-wire speaker-cable installations
- Compatible passive bi-amplifier systems
- Systems using a large active subwoofer
Check Before Buying
- A separate amplifier is required
- 4-ohm nominal impedance
- The amplifier should be stable into 4 ohms
- 40W to 300W recommended amplifier range
- Each speaker weighs 34kg
- 30cm to 150cm rear-wall clearance is recommended
- Both rear bass-reflex ports must remain clear
- The speakers may overwhelm a small room
- Spikes can damage hard flooring
- Bi-amplification requires removal of the terminal links
- Speaker cables are not included
- No built-in Bluetooth or network streaming
Connection and Setup Guidance
- Use two people when unpacking, lifting or moving each 34kg cabinet.
- Attach the supplied aluminium floor supports according to DALI's instructions.
- Use the supplied spikes only on suitable flooring.
- Use the damping feet or floor cups on delicate hard surfaces.
- Make sure that both cabinets are level and stable.
- Switch off the amplifier before connecting or disconnecting the speakers.
- Confirm that the amplifier is suitable for a 4-ohm loudspeaker load.
- Connect the amplifier's positive terminal to the positive speaker terminal.
- Connect the amplifier's negative terminal to the negative speaker terminal.
- Use the same polarity for both left and right speakers.
- Use the same loudspeaker-cable type and approximately equal lengths for both channels.
- Leave the terminal links installed for conventional single-wire operation.
- Remove the terminal links before connecting separate amplifier channels.
- Secure bare wire, 4mm plugs or spade connectors correctly.
- Make sure that no loose wire strands can short the amplifier terminals.
- Begin with the speakers facing straight ahead.
- Keep both rear Dual Flare ports unobstructed.
- Begin within DALI's recommended 30cm to 150cm rear-wall range.
- Reduce the volume if the sound becomes compressed, harsh or distorted.
Finish Options
Satin Black
Satin Black provides the most traditional Hi-Fi appearance and coordinates naturally with black amplifiers, source components and home cinema equipment.
The dark cabinet is partnered with a Shadow Black front grille.
Tobacco Oak
Tobacco Oak provides a warmer wood-effect appearance while retaining the clean proportions of the OPTICON MK2 range.
The cabinet is partnered with a Shadow Black front grille.
Both finishes use the same drivers, crossover, cabinet construction and acoustic specification. Availability may vary, so confirm the required finish when ordering.
DALI Products and Audio T Hi-Fi Guides
These Audio T links provide useful comparisons and further guidance on DALI loudspeakers, amplifiers and large-room systems.
Key Features
- Flagship OPTICON MK2 floorstanding speakers
- Supplied as a stereo pair
- Designed for large listening rooms
- 3 + ½-way crossover design
- Two dedicated 8-inch bass drivers per speaker
- One dedicated 6½-inch midrange driver per speaker
- Paper and wood-fibre cone material
- Separate bass and midrange driver roles
- Dedicated closed midrange chamber
- Separate internal sections for each cone driver
- Non-parallel internal dividing panels
- DALI patented Soft Magnetic Composite technology
- Full SMC pole-piece construction
- Large ferrite ring magnets
- Reduced magnetic hysteresis
- Reduced eddy-current distortion
- Reduced third-order distortion
- Low-loss driver suspension
- Die-cast aluminium driver chassis
- DALI hybrid tweeter module
- One 29mm soft-dome tweeter per speaker
- CALLISTO-derived tweeter technology
- Lightweight textile dome diaphragm
- One 17 × 45mm planar tweeter per speaker
- Very-high-frequency extension
- Wide horizontal dispersion
- Cast aluminium tweeter faceplate
- 380Hz crossover frequency
- 2,200Hz crossover frequency
- 14,000Hz crossover frequency
- Minimalist crossover topology
- Selected low-loss crossover components
- Short internal signal paths
- DALI Wide Dispersion Sound Principle
- Straight-ahead placement recommended
- 38Hz to 30kHz frequency response
- 88.5dB sensitivity
- 4-ohm nominal impedance
- 112dB maximum sound-pressure level
- 40W to 300W recommended amplification
- Bass-reflex enclosure
- Two rear-facing bass-reflex ports
- One reflex port for each bass driver
- Dual Flare port profiles
- 29.5Hz bass-reflex tuning frequency
- 25mm-thick front baffle
- Substantial internal cabinet bracing
- Manufactured in Denmark
- Assembled and tested in Denmark
- Matched stereo-pair production
- One technician builds and tests each pair
- Gold-plated speaker terminals
- Bi-wire connection
- Passive bi-amplifier connection
- Supplied terminal links
- Floor placement
- Recommended rear-wall distance from 30cm to 150cm
- Cast aluminium floor supports
- Supplied black-chromed M8 spikes
- Supplied vibration-damping feet
- Removable front grilles
- 1141mm cabinet height including base
- 241mm cabinet width including base
- 450mm cabinet depth including base
- 34kg weight per speaker
- Satin Black finish
- Tobacco Oak finish
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the DALI OPTICON 8 MK2?
They are the flagship passive floorstanding speakers in the OPTICON MK2 range, with twin 8-inch woofers, a dedicated midrange and DALI's hybrid tweeter.
Are they sold as a pair?
Yes. The standard product contains two floorstanding loudspeakers.
Where are they made?
They are manufactured, assembled and tested at DALI's production facilities in Denmark.
Are the two speakers matched?
Yes. Each stereo pair is built and tested sequentially by one technician using components from the same production batch.
Do they contain an amplifier?
No. They require a suitable external stereo amplifier, streaming amplifier, power amplifier or AV receiver.
Do they have Bluetooth?
No. Bluetooth must be provided by the connected amplifier or a separate source component.
Do they have Wi-Fi or network streaming?
No. A network streamer or streaming amplifier is required.
Can they connect directly to a television?
No. The television must connect to a suitable amplifier, which then powers the speakers.
Can they connect directly to a turntable?
No. A turntable requires a suitable amplifier and, where necessary, a moving magnet or moving coil phono stage.
What is the crossover principle?
DALI specifies a 3 + ½-way arrangement.
Why is it described as 3 + ½-way?
The speaker uses dedicated bass, midrange and soft-dome high-frequency sections, with a planar tweeter supplementing the soft dome at the highest frequencies.
What are the crossover frequencies?
DALI specifies 380Hz, 2,200Hz and 14,000Hz.
What size are the bass drivers?
Each speaker contains two dedicated 8-inch woofers.
What size is the midrange driver?
Each speaker contains one dedicated 6½-inch midrange driver.
Why use a dedicated midrange driver?
It reproduces voices and instruments without making the long cone movements required for deep bass, helping preserve clarity and image focus.
Does the midrange have a separate enclosure?
Yes. It operates within its own closed internal section, isolated from the pressure generated by the bass drivers.
What are the cones made from?
The bass and midrange cones combine paper pulp with reinforcing wood fibres.
What is SMC technology?
Soft Magnetic Composite is used within the driver pole pieces to reduce eddy currents, magnetic hysteresis and uneven electro-acoustic distortion.
Do all three cone drivers use SMC?
Yes. Both 8-inch woofers and the 6½-inch midrange driver use full SMC pole-piece motor systems.
What is a hybrid tweeter?
It combines a 29mm soft-dome tweeter with a 17 × 45mm planar element.
What does the soft-dome tweeter do?
It provides the main high-frequency output and integrates with the dedicated midrange driver at approximately 2,200Hz.
What does the planar tweeter do?
It contributes from approximately 14kHz upwards, adding very-high-frequency extension and wide horizontal dispersion.
Is the planar tweeter a ribbon?
It is often described as a ribbon tweeter, although DALI's current terminology describes it as a planar element.
What is the frequency response?
DALI specifies 38Hz to 30kHz within plus or minus 3dB.
How sensitive are they?
DALI specifies 88.5dB for 2.83V measured at one metre.
What is the nominal impedance?
DALI specifies 4 ohms.
Are they easy to drive?
Their 88.5dB sensitivity is useful, but the 4-ohm impedance and substantial driver system mean that a capable amplifier with dependable current delivery is advisable.
What amplifier power does DALI recommend?
DALI recommends between 40W and 300W.
Can I use an amplifier rated above 300W?
A higher-rated amplifier may be suitable with sensible volume control, but compatibility depends on amplifier behaviour, room size and listening habits.
Can an underpowered amplifier damage the speakers?
Yes. An amplifier driven into clipping can send a heavily distorted signal to the tweeters. Reduce the volume if the sound becomes harsh or compressed.
What is the maximum sound-pressure level?
DALI specifies 112dB at one metre.
Are they bass-reflex speakers?
Yes. Each cabinet contains two rear-facing Dual Flare bass-reflex ports.
Does each woofer have its own port?
Yes. Each low-frequency cabinet section and 8-inch woofer is partnered with its own reflex port.
What is the bass-reflex tuning frequency?
The enclosure is tuned to 29.5Hz.
What does Dual Flare mean?
The ports are flared at both their entry and exit to reduce airflow turbulence, compression and audible noise.
How close can they be placed to a wall?
DALI recommends between 30cm and 150cm from the rear of each cabinet to the wall.
Are they suitable for a small room?
They are primarily designed for large rooms. Their twin 8-inch woofers and extended bass may be difficult to control in a small space.
Should they be angled towards the listener?
DALI generally recommends beginning with the speakers facing straight ahead to support its Wide Dispersion Sound Principle.
Can the front grilles be removed?
Yes.
Are floor supports included?
Yes. Cast aluminium support bars are supplied.
Are spikes included?
Yes. Black-chromed M8 spikes are included.
Can the spikes damage hard floors?
Yes. Use the supplied damping feet or suitable protective floor cups on delicate flooring.
Can they be bi-wired?
Yes. Separate terminal sections are provided for the bass and midrange or high-frequency sections.
Can they be bi-amplified?
Yes, with compatible amplification. The terminal links must be removed before connecting separate amplifier channels.
Do they need a subwoofer?
Not necessarily for most music, but an active subwoofer is worthwhile for the deepest home cinema effects or frequencies below the speakers' 38Hz response.
Can they be used for home cinema?
Yes. They make powerful front left and right speakers with a suitable AV receiver, matching centre channel and active subwoofer.
How thick is the front baffle?
DALI specifies a 25mm-thick front baffle.
What are their dimensions?
Each speaker measures 1141mm high, 241mm wide and 450mm deep with its base fitted.
How much do they weigh?
Each speaker weighs 34kg.
Should two people move them?
Yes. Their size and weight make two-person lifting and positioning the safer option.
Which finishes are available?
Satin Black and Tobacco Oak are available, subject to stock.
Is Satin White available?
No. The OPTICON 8 MK2 are offered only in Satin Black and Tobacco Oak.
Should I choose the OPTICON 6 MK2 or OPTICON 8 MK2?
Choose the OPTICON 6 MK2 for a slimmer speaker and easier room integration. Choose the OPTICON 8 MK2 for deeper bass, greater output and its dedicated midrange driver.
Should I choose the OPTICON 8 MK2 or SONIK 9?
Choose the SONIK 9 for its lower price and newer Clarity Cone technology. Choose the OPTICON 8 MK2 for dedicated bass and midrange drivers, full SMC pole pieces and more substantial Danish construction.
Should I choose the OPTICON 8 MK2 or RUBIKORE 8?
Choose the OPTICON 8 MK2 for large-scale Danish-made performance at a lower price. Choose the RUBIKORE 8 for newer KORE-derived technology, premium finishes and higher-end system performance.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Demonstrations with suitable high-current amplifiers
- Direct comparison with other large floorstanding speakers
- Advice choosing between OPTICON 6 and OPTICON 8 MK2
- Comparison with DALI SONIK and RUBIKORE models
- Amplifier power and 4-ohm compatibility checks
- Speaker-cable and termination guidance
- Single-wire, bi-wire and bi-amplifier setup advice
- Large-room positioning and rear-wall distance guidance
- Spike, floor-pad and hard-floor protection advice
- Turntable and phono-stage system matching
- CD player and network-streamer matching
- Active-subwoofer matching and setup
- Home cinema and centre-speaker guidance
- Home demonstrations may be available
- Part exchange may be available on suitable existing equipment
- Ongoing setup and system support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss matching the DALI OPTICON 8 MK2 to your amplifier, room and listening requirements.
Hybrid tweeter module, Super high freq. driver, Quantity 1 x 17 x 45 mm
Hybrid tweeter module, Super high freq. driver, Diaphragm type Ribbon