Audio T Verdict
The Neat Petite Classic proves that a genuinely compact standmount speaker does not have to sound small.
Its AMT tweeter provides an open and responsive treble, while the mineral-filled polypropylene bass/mid driver gives music impressive weight, pace and clarity from the Petite’s modest cabinet.
The 87dB sensitivity and 6-ohm nominal impedance make it compatible with a broad range of good-quality amplifiers. Solid speaker stands, careful positioning and a suitable supporting system will help it deliver its best performance.
Neat Acoustics Petite Classic Standmount Speakers
The Petite Classic is a modern interpretation of the compact loudspeaker that launched Neat Acoustics.
It retains the proportions and distinctive character of the original Petite while introducing an Air Motion Transformer tweeter, mineral-filled polypropylene bass/mid driver and revised crossover network.
Measuring only 300mm high, the Petite Classic is designed for listeners who want a high-quality stereo speaker without introducing a large cabinet into the room.
Air Motion Transformer Tweeter
High frequencies are reproduced by an Air Motion Transformer, commonly shortened to AMT.
Its lightweight folded diaphragm moves air from between its pleats rather than operating like a conventional dome. The low moving mass allows the tweeter to respond quickly to musical changes, helping reveal detail, ambience and the space around voices and instruments.
Mineral-Filled Bass and Midrange Driver
A 150mm mineral-filled polypropylene driver handles the bass and midrange frequencies.
The cone combines low mass with controlled damping, supporting clear vocals, natural instrumental tone and responsive low-frequency performance.
Using one driver across the bass and midrange also helps preserve consistency through the main body of the music.
Staggered Bass-Reflex Tuning
The Petite Classic uses two differently tuned rear reflex ports to extend and control its low-frequency output.
This staggered arrangement helps the compact cabinet deliver a published bandwidth extending down to 35Hz. The larger port can also be adjusted using its foam insert to suit the room and speaker position.
Removing the insert generally provides greater bass output, while fitting it can help control the balance when the speakers are positioned closer to a wall.
Adjust the Bass to Your Room
Begin with the manufacturer’s standard port arrangement, then compare the speakers with the larger port open and damped.
Use the setting that provides the most even and natural bass at the listening position rather than simply choosing the option with the greatest output.
Compact Cabinet, Full-Scale Presentation
Each Petite Classic measures 300mm high, 200mm wide and 180mm deep, making it suitable for smaller rooms and spaces where a conventional floorstanding speaker would be impractical.
Its compact dimensions also allow it to create a focused stereo image without visually dominating the room.
Speaker Stands and Placement
The Petite Classic should be used on rigid, stable speaker stands. Neat suggests that a stand of approximately 600mm will suit many seated listening positions.
A useful starting point is to:
- Place the tweeters close to seated ear height
- Position both speakers the same distance from the listening seat
- Leave some space from the rear and side walls
- Avoid pushing either speaker tightly into a corner
- Keep both stands level and stable
- Experiment with small changes in toe-in
- Move the speakers a few centimetres at a time
Moving the speakers closer to the rear wall will normally increase bass output. Pulling them further into the room will usually improve openness and image depth.
Speaker Stands Are Not Included
Suitable speaker stands are required and sold separately. Audio T can advise on stand height, top-plate size, filling and floor isolation.
Amplifier Matching
Neat recommends amplifiers rated between 25 and 150 watts per channel.
The Petite Classic has a sensitivity of 87dB, a nominal impedance of 6 ohms and a minimum impedance of 4 ohms. It will therefore benefit from an amplifier with good control and current delivery, particularly at higher listening levels.
Amplifier power alone does not determine compatibility. Room size, listening distance, preferred volume and tonal balance should also be considered during a demonstration.
Running In
New loudspeaker drive units change as their suspensions settle through normal use.
Neat advises that an initial change should be audible after approximately 30 hours, although some speakers may take up to 200 hours to reach their fully settled performance.
Avoid making final positioning or system-balancing decisions immediately after installation.
Finish Options
Current manufacturer finish options include:
- Walnut
- Natural Oak
- Black Oak
- Satin White
Finish availability should be confirmed when ordering.
Key Features
- Compact two-way standmount loudspeaker
- Modern version of the original Neat Petite
- Air Motion Transformer tweeter
- 150mm mineral-filled polypropylene bass/mid driver
- Staggered rear bass-reflex tuning
- Adjustable low-frequency balance
- Low-loss air-core crossover inductors
- High-voltage polypropylene capacitors
- 35Hz–22kHz published bandwidth
- 87dB sensitivity
- 6-ohm nominal impedance
- 25–150-watt amplifier recommendation
- Compact 300mm-high cabinet
- Supplied as a stereo pair
- Hand-built in North East England
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Neat Petite Classic speakers supplied as a pair?
Yes. They are supplied as a stereo pair of passive standmount speakers.
Are speaker stands included?
No. Suitable stands are required and sold separately.
What type of tweeter do they use?
The Petite Classic uses an Air Motion Transformer tweeter.
What amplifier power is recommended?
Neat recommends an amplifier rated between 25 and 150 watts per channel.
Are the Petite Classics difficult to drive?
Their 87dB sensitivity is reasonably amplifier-friendly, although the 4-ohm minimum impedance means a capable amplifier is recommended.
Can they be positioned near a wall?
Yes. The rear-port tuning can be adjusted, although the final distance should be chosen according to the room’s bass response.
What is the foam port insert for?
It reduces the contribution of the larger rear port and can help control bass when the speakers are used closer to a wall.
What size room suits the Petite Classic?
Its compact cabinet is particularly suitable for smaller and medium-sized rooms, subject to listening distance and preferred volume.
How large is each speaker?
Each cabinet measures 300mm high, 200mm wide and 180mm deep.
How long do they take to run in?
An initial change should be heard after around 30 hours, although full settling may take considerably longer.
Related Neat Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- In-store Neat Acoustics demonstrations
- Amplifier and system-matching advice
- Speaker stand and isolation guidance
- Room positioning and port-tuning advice
- Part exchange on suitable existing equipment
- Ongoing setup and after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration of the Neat Petite Classic.