Audio T Verdict
The ProAc Response D2R combines the scale, weight and natural midrange of the long-established Response D2 with the speed and openness of ProAc’s ribbon tweeter.
Its 165mm glass-fibre bass and midrange driver produces remarkably deep and controlled bass for a standmount speaker, while the copper phase plug helps maintain clarity through the crucial vocal range.
The ribbon tweeter reveals fine detail, atmosphere and the natural decay of instruments without making the speaker sound needlessly bright or analytical.
A front-facing reflex port provides useful flexibility when positioning the speakers, although the D2R still deserves rigid, high-mass stands and careful placement away from nearby boundaries.
With an 8-ohm impedance and 88.5dB sensitivity, it can be partnered with a broad range of high-quality amplifiers, but its transparency means that improvements made elsewhere in the system will be clearly heard.
ProAc Response D2R Ribbon Standmount Speakers
The ProAc Response D2R is a premium two-way standmount loudspeaker designed and handcrafted at ProAc’s factory in Brackley, England.
It combines a 165mm glass-fibre bass and midrange driver, copper phase plug, ProAc ribbon tweeter and carefully developed crossover within a rigid and well-damped cabinet.
The D2R shares its cabinet and bass driver with the dome-tweeter Response D2D but offers a different high-frequency presentation through the use of ProAc’s lightweight ribbon design.
Amplification and Stands Are Required
The Response D2R is a passive loudspeaker and does not contain amplification, streaming, wireless connectivity or volume control.
A suitable stereo amplifier, speaker cables and a pair of rigid, high-mass speaker stands will be required. Speaker stands are not included.
A Ribbon-Tweeter Response D2
The original Response D2 established a strong reputation for combining precise monitor-style imaging with bass weight and scale that appeared to contradict its compact cabinet.
The D2R retains the same basic cabinet dimensions and bass and midrange driver while introducing the ribbon tweeter used within several of ProAc’s larger Response floorstanding models.
A dedicated crossover was developed to integrate the ribbon tweeter with the existing bass and midrange unit.
What Does the R Mean?
The R identifies the ribbon-tweeter version of the Response D2.
The Response D2D uses ProAc’s 25mm silk-dome tweeter, while the D2R uses ProAc’s lightweight ribbon tweeter.
ProAc Ribbon Tweeter
The D2R uses ProAc’s ribbon tweeter with an exceptionally lightweight diaphragm, rear-chamber damping and an Alnico magnet system.
The ribbon’s very low moving mass allows it to respond rapidly to small changes within the music, helping reveal fine detail, space and the natural decay of instruments.
Rear-chamber damping controls the energy generated behind the ribbon and helps the tweeter integrate smoothly with the bass and midrange driver.
What Is a Ribbon Tweeter?
A ribbon tweeter uses a thin, lightweight conductive diaphragm suspended within a magnetic field.
Its low mass allows it to respond quickly to changes in the music, giving the D2R an open and highly detailed high-frequency presentation.
Detailed Without Unnecessary Brightness
Ribbon tweeters are sometimes assumed to sound inherently bright, but the final presentation depends on the complete speaker design rather than the tweeter technology alone.
ProAc’s crossover, rear-chamber damping and careful driver integration allow the D2R to reveal subtle high-frequency information without separating the treble from the rest of the music.
Partnering electronics and room acoustics will still influence the final balance, making a demonstration especially worthwhile.
165mm Glass-Fibre Bass and Midrange Driver
The Response D2R uses a 165mm ProAc bass and midrange driver with an Excel magnet system.
Its glass-fibre weave cone combines relatively low moving mass with the rigidity required to reproduce bass and midrange frequencies cleanly.
The driver gives the D2R substantial low-frequency weight while retaining the clarity required for voices, acoustic instruments and complex musical arrangements.
Solid Copper Phase Plug
A solid copper phase plug is positioned at the centre of the bass and midrange driver.
The phase plug helps control the behaviour of sound generated around the central area of the cone and contributes to a smoother response through the upper midrange.
It also assists with heat dissipation around the voice-coil assembly during demanding musical passages.
30Hz Bass Extension
ProAc specifies a frequency response extending from 30Hz to 30kHz.
This is unusually deep low-frequency extension for a standmount loudspeaker and allows the D2R to reproduce bass guitar, piano, orchestral music and electronic recordings with convincing scale.
The bass heard in a particular system will depend on the room, speaker position, listening level, stands and control provided by the amplifier.
Does the D2R Need a Subwoofer?
Not necessarily. Its quoted 30Hz extension will provide sufficient bass for many music systems.
A carefully integrated subwoofer can still add the lowest octave and greater physical scale in a large room or with recordings containing substantial sub-bass information.
Front-Facing Reflex Port
A reflex port on the front baffle reinforces the D2R’s low-frequency output.
The forward-facing design makes positioning less restrictive than with many rear-ported alternatives, particularly where there is limited space behind the speakers.
It does not remove the influence of nearby walls, however, and the D2R should still be moved and adjusted carefully to achieve the best balance.
Front Ported Does Not Mean Against the Wall
Positioning the speakers very close to a wall or corner can still increase bass output and reduce definition.
Begin with some space around each cabinet and make small adjustments while listening to familiar recordings.
True Monitor Performance
The Response D2R has been developed to provide accurate imaging, low colouration and clear insight into the recording.
Its ability to locate voices and instruments precisely across the soundstage makes it particularly effective with live recordings, acoustic music and carefully produced studio material.
The substantial bass response prevents it from sounding lightweight or restricted when playing larger-scale music.
Pinpoint Stereo Imaging
The narrow front baffle, compact driver arrangement and carefully integrated crossover help the D2R create a stable and precisely organised stereo image.
Correctly positioned, the speakers can appear to disappear from the soundstage, leaving voices and instruments located independently within the room.
Equal distances from the listening position and careful adjustment of toe-in are essential if this performance is to be fully realised.
Hand-Built Crossover
The crossover uses selected components mounted on a dedicated circuit board.
It was developed specifically to combine the glass-fibre bass and midrange driver with ProAc’s 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 joined by the fitted terminal links.
Bi-amplification should only be attempted using 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 connected through the correctly fitted terminal links.
When bi-wiring or bi-amplifying, switch off the amplifier and remove the links before connecting separate cables or amplifier channels.
88.5dB Sensitivity
The Response D2R has a quoted sensitivity of 88.5dB for one watt measured at one metre.
This is reasonably efficient for a substantial high-performance standmount loudspeaker and allows it to work with a wide selection of suitable amplifiers.
Room size, listening distance and desired volume should still be considered when choosing the partnering amplifier.
8-Ohm Nominal Impedance
The nominal impedance is specified at 8 ohms.
This makes the D2R a comparatively accommodating electrical load when compared with many lower-impedance loudspeakers.
Its deep bass and revealing nature will nevertheless benefit from an amplifier with a stable power supply, good current delivery and strong driver control.
20W to 150W Recommended Amplification
ProAc recommends amplifiers rated between 20W and 150W per channel.
This does not mean that every amplifier within that range will provide the same result. Power-supply quality, current delivery, distortion behaviour and tonal balance are all important.
The D2R is sufficiently transparent to make the differences between amplifiers, sources and recordings clearly audible.
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 appropriate headroom for the room, listening distance and preferred volume rather than relying solely on the quoted wattage.
Matching the D2R with an Amplifier
The D2R can be used with suitable solid-state and valve amplifiers, provided that the amplifier has sufficient power and control for the room and listening level.
A well-matched amplifier should preserve the speaker’s open treble and natural midrange while maintaining control over its substantial low-frequency output.
Where possible, compare suitable amplifiers using familiar music rather than choosing from specifications alone.
Rigid High-Mass Stand Mounting
ProAc recommends mounting the D2R on rigid, high-mass stands.
A suitable stand should hold the cabinet securely, resist movement and position the ribbon tweeter at an appropriate height relative to the seated listener.
The stand should be level and stable, with a suitable interface between the top plate and speaker cabinet.
Each Speaker Weighs 11kg
Each Response D2R cabinet weighs approximately 11kg.
The stands must be stable, appropriately sized and capable of supporting the speakers safely, particularly in homes with children or pets.
Ribbon Tweeter Listening Height
Ribbon tweeters generally provide broad horizontal dispersion but a more controlled vertical listening window than conventional dome tweeters.
The D2R should therefore be placed on stands that position the tweeters reasonably close to seated ear height.
Very low stands, very high stands or a listening position substantially above or below the tweeter may change the perceived high-frequency balance.
Positioning the Response D2R
- Use rigid, high-mass stands of an appropriate height
- Place both speakers the same distance from the listening position
- Begin with space between the cabinets and nearby walls
- Avoid positioning one speaker significantly closer to a corner
- Keep the front-facing ports unobstructed
- Adjust toe-in to balance focus and soundstage width
- Make small positioning changes and listen between adjustments
- Ensure both stands and cabinets are level and stable
Toe-In and Soundstage Width
A small amount of toe-in towards the main listening position provides a sensible starting point.
Increasing toe-in can strengthen centre-image focus and sharpen the placement of voices and instruments.
Reducing toe-in may create a wider and slightly more relaxed presentation, depending on the room and listening distance.
Substantial Standmount Cabinet
Each cabinet measures approximately 430mm high, 203mm wide and 260mm deep, including the 12mm grille thickness.
The enclosure is larger than many modern bookshelf speakers, giving the bass and midrange driver the internal volume required to achieve its quoted low-frequency extension.
The rigid and well-damped construction helps control unwanted resonance and provides a stable foundation for the drive units.
Handcrafted in England
ProAc loudspeakers are handcrafted and tested at the company’s factory in Brackley, England.
Individual technicians are responsible for building and checking the loudspeakers to ensure that each pair meets ProAc’s production standards.
The cabinet, drivers, crossover, internal wiring and finish are brought together as parts of the same complete design.
Acoustically Transparent Grilles
The Response D2R is supplied with acoustically transparent crimplene grilles.
Magnetic grilles are available with certain cabinet finishes.
The exact grille arrangement should be confirmed for the chosen finish when ordering.
Standard Cabinet Finishes
The D2R 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 provide a consistent appearance across each stereo pair.
Natural variations in grain and colour should be expected because genuine wood veneer is used.
Premium Cabinet Finishes
Liquidambar, Rosewood and Ebony are available to order at additional cost.
Premium finishes may have longer lead times depending on production and availability.
The exact price, appearance and expected delivery should be confirmed before ordering.
ProAc Response D2D or D2R?
Choose the Response D2D When
- You prefer the sound of a traditional silk-dome tweeter
- A smooth and familiar dome presentation is important
- Your existing ProAc speakers use dome tweeters
- You listen significantly above or below tweeter height
- You want the original Response D2 configuration
Choose the Response D2R When
- You prefer the speed and openness of a ribbon tweeter
- Fine treble detail and atmosphere are priorities
- Precise imaging is especially important
- You want to match ribbon-equipped ProAc speakers
- Your source and amplifier can support greater transparency
The D2D and D2R share the same cabinet dimensions, bass and midrange driver, impedance, sensitivity and quoted frequency response.
The ProAc Response D2D should be auditioned alongside the D2R where possible, as the preferred tweeter will depend on the system, room, recordings and listener.
ProAc Response DB1 or Response D2R?
Choose the Response DB1 When
- A smaller cabinet is essential
- The listening room is relatively compact
- A lower overall system cost is preferred
- Visual impact must be kept to a minimum
- Maximum bass extension is less important
Choose the Response D2R When
- Greater bass extension and physical scale are required
- A larger listening room is being used
- Higher listening levels are important
- A ribbon tweeter is preferred
- A more substantial standmount speaker is acceptable
The ProAc Response DB1 provides a more compact route into the Response range, while the larger D2R offers greater low-frequency extension and scale.
ProAc Response D2R or Response D20R?
Choose the Response D2R When
- A standmount design suits the room
- Precise monitor-style imaging is a priority
- Flexible placement is required
- A visually smaller speaker is preferable
- Suitable rigid stands are available
Choose the Response D20R When
- A floorstanding design is preferable
- Greater bass extension is required
- A larger-scale presentation is important
- You do not want separate speaker stands
- The room can accommodate a taller cabinet
The ProAc Response D20R combines ProAc’s ribbon tweeter with a slim floorstanding cabinet and downward-firing reflex loading.
ProAc Response D2R or Response DT8?
Choose the Response D2R When
- A standmount design is preferred
- A ribbon tweeter is important
- Pinpoint imaging is a major priority
- A single bass and midrange driver is preferred
- The room suits a compact monitor-style speaker
Choose the Response DT8 When
- A floorstanding design is preferable
- Greater sensitivity is useful
- A larger room-filling presentation is required
- A silk-dome tweeter is preferred
- You do not want separate stands
The ProAc Response DT8 uses two different 165mm bass and midrange drivers with a silk-dome tweeter, while the D2R uses a single glass-fibre driver and ProAc ribbon tweeter.
ProAc Products and Audio T Guides
Key Features
- Premium two-way standmount loudspeakers
- Supplied as a stereo pair
- Designed and handcrafted in England
- 165mm ProAc bass and midrange driver
- Excel magnet system
- Glass-fibre weave cone
- Solid copper phase plug
- ProAc ribbon tweeter
- Extremely lightweight ribbon diaphragm
- Rear-chamber tweeter damping
- Alnico tweeter magnet
- Front-facing reflex port
- 30Hz to 30kHz frequency response
- 88.5dB sensitivity
- 8-ohm nominal impedance
- 20W to 150W recommended amplification
- Hand-built crossover
- Selected crossover components
- Dedicated crossover circuit board
- Multistrand oxygen-free internal cable
- Optional bi-wiring
- Optional bi-amplification
- Rigid high-mass stand mounting recommended
- Acoustically transparent crimplene grilles
- Magnetic grilles with selected finishes
- Six standard cabinet finishes
- Three premium finish options
- 430mm-high cabinet
- Approximately 11kg per speaker
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the ProAc Response D2R speakers sold as a pair?
Yes. The Response D2R is supplied as a pair of passive stereo loudspeakers.
What does the R in D2R mean?
The R identifies the ribbon-tweeter version of the Response D2. The D2D uses a silk-dome tweeter.
Which tweeter does the D2R use?
It uses ProAc’s ribbon tweeter with an exceptionally lightweight diaphragm, rear-chamber damping and an Alnico magnet.
Does the D2R use a silk-dome tweeter?
No. The silk-dome version is the ProAc Response D2D.
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 copper phase plug.
Is it front or rear ported?
The Response D2R uses a front-facing reflex port.
Can it be placed close to a wall?
The front port makes placement less restrictive than with many rear-ported designs, but positioning close to a wall will still affect the bass balance.
What is the frequency response?
ProAc specifies a frequency response of 30Hz to 30kHz.
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 150W 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 speaker stands?
Yes. ProAc recommends rigid, high-mass stands. Suitable stands are not included.
How high should the stands be?
The correct height should position the ribbon tweeters reasonably close to seated ear level while supporting the cabinets securely.
Is listening height important?
Yes. Ribbon tweeters generally have more controlled vertical dispersion than dome tweeters, so the stand and seating heights should be chosen carefully.
Do the speakers 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 broader presentation.
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 30Hz bass extension will be sufficient for many music systems, although a properly integrated subwoofer can add greater depth and scale.
What is the difference between the D2R and D2D?
The D2R uses ProAc’s ribbon tweeter, while the D2D uses a 25mm silk-dome tweeter. Their cabinet, bass driver and principal performance specifications are otherwise shared.
Is the D2R brighter than the D2D?
The ribbon version generally offers a more open and revealing high-frequency presentation, but the preferred balance will depend on the amplifier, room, recordings and listener.
Are grilles included?
Yes. Acoustically transparent crimplene grilles are specified. Magnetic grilles are available with certain finishes.
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?
Liquidambar, Rosewood and Ebony are available to order at additional cost.
How large is each speaker?
Each cabinet measures approximately 430mm high, 203mm wide and 260mm deep, including the 12mm grille thickness.
How much does each speaker weigh?
Each Response D2R weighs approximately 11kg.
Where are they made?
ProAc loudspeakers are handcrafted and tested at the company’s factory in Brackley, England.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Specialist demonstrations with your own music
- Direct D2R and D2D tweeter comparisons
- Amplifier and source matching advice
- Speaker stand and listening-height guidance
- Room placement and toe-in assistance
- Home demonstrations where available
- 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 D2R speakers with your amplifier, room and music system.