Audio T Verdict
The Sonus faber Duetto is what happens when a manufacturer known for beautifully made passive loudspeakers decides that an active wireless system should still feel like proper hi-fi. You get two real stereo speakers, each with separate amplification for its tweeter and midwoofer, proper left and right placement, genuine cabinet engineering and enough connectivity to replace a surprisingly large pile of conventional electronics.
That last point is important. Duetto is not simply a pair of Bluetooth speakers with a luxury finish. AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Roon, Bluetooth, HDMI ARC/eARC, optical input, a turntable-ready MM phono input and a configurable subwoofer output are all built in. Add your home network and mains power and you already have a remarkably complete music and television system.
The other surprise is the bass. A 134mm driver does not sound particularly imposing on paper, yet active amplification, DSP and the curved vented enclosure allow Sonus faber to specify response down to 37Hz. Add the dedicated Duetto stands and this becomes a very elegant alternative to a conventional amplifier, streamer, DAC and passive-speaker system, particularly where simplicity matters but proper stereo separation still does too.
Sonus faber Duetto Active Wireless Speakers
Duetto is Sonus faber's first active wireless stereo loudspeaker system, combining the company's traditional approach to cabinet design and natural materials with streaming, digital signal processing and dedicated amplification.
Unlike a single-box wireless speaker, Duetto remains a genuine left-and-right stereo pair. Each cabinet contains its own tweeter, midwoofer and dedicated amplification, while Ultra Wide Band wireless technology handles communication between the two speakers.
The result is a complete hi-fi system that can play music directly from streaming services, connect to a television through HDMI ARC/eARC or optical, accept an analogue source or moving-magnet turntable and feed an external active subwoofer when deeper bass is required.
- Sonus faber's first active wireless stereo loudspeaker system
- True two-speaker stereo configuration
- Two-way curved vented enclosure
- Digital signal processing
- 28mm silk-dome tweeter
- Dedicated tweeter waveguide
- Ferrite tweeter magnet system with copper cap
- 134mm long-excursion midwoofer
- Neodymium midwoofer magnet system
- Copper cap and aluminium ring within midwoofer motor
- 1900Hz crossover point
- 100W Class AB tweeter amplifier per speaker
- 250W Class D midwoofer amplifier per speaker
- 350W installed amplification per cabinet
- 37Hz–30kHz frequency response
- 105dB maximum SPL at one metre
- ESS SABRE 32-bit DAC
- Apple AirPlay 2
- Chromecast built-in
- Spotify Connect
- TIDAL Connect
- Roon Ready
- QQMusic support
- Bluetooth aptX HD
- 2.4GHz and 5GHz-class Wi-Fi
- Ethernet network connection
- HDMI ARC/eARC
- Optical digital input
- Switchable Line/Phono analogue input
- Moving-magnet turntable compatibility
- Subwoofer output
- Adjustable subwoofer gain, crossover and delay
- SENSO touch-sensitive control surface
- Sonus faber control app
- Ultra Wide Band inter-speaker communication
- Walnut Wood and Graphite Wood finishes
- Black leather detailing
- Optional dedicated aluminium stands
A Complete Hi-Fi System Inside Two Speakers
The fundamental appeal of Duetto is how much conventional hi-fi hardware it can replace.
A traditional passive system might need:
- A pair of loudspeakers
- An integrated amplifier
- A network streamer
- A DAC
- A phono stage
- Speaker cable
- Potentially a television interface
Duetto incorporates most of those functions inside the loudspeaker system itself.
What Do You Actually Need?
For straightforward music streaming, very little.
You need:
- The Duetto stereo pair
- Mains power for each speaker
- A home network
- A phone, tablet or computer to select music
No separate amplifier or speaker cable is required.
Wireless Does Not Mean Cable-Free
Each Duetto contains active electronics and therefore needs its own mains connection.
The clever part is that you do not need to run a speaker cable or conventional signal cable between the left and right cabinets.
Plan for Two Mains Sockets
Before deciding where the speakers will go, remember that both cabinets require mains power. The audio connection between the pair can be wireless, but each speaker still needs electricity.
True Left and Right Stereo
Duetto preserves one of the most important advantages of a conventional hi-fi system: physical separation between the left and right channels.
That allows you to control:
- Speaker spacing
- Listening distance
- Toe-in
- Soundstage width
- Centre-image focus
This distinguishes Duetto from a single-box wireless system where the left and right drivers must inevitably remain close together.
Master and Satellite Architecture
Duetto operates with one cabinet acting as the Master and the other as the Satellite.
The Master handles the system's main physical inputs and system management, while the two speakers communicate wirelessly with one another.
Which Speaker Is the Master?
The Master is configured as the left channel by default.
If your room or cable layout makes the opposite arrangement more convenient, Duetto allows the Master and Satellite left/right positions to be swapped.
Ultra Wide Band Communication
Sonus faber uses Ultra Wide Band, or UWB, technology for communication between the two speakers.
This is separate from the normal Wi-Fi network used for music streaming.
Why UWB?
Wireless stereo speakers need to keep the left and right channels precisely synchronised.
Sonus faber's UWB implementation is intended to provide high-speed communication between the speakers while reducing interference and latency caused by other domestic wireless networks.
No Speaker Cable Between the Pair
This means the two speakers can be positioned in a normal stereo arrangement without having to run a speaker cable across the room between them.
Two-Way Active Design
Each Duetto uses one 28mm tweeter and one 134mm midwoofer.
Unlike a passive two-way speaker, each drive unit has amplification dedicated specifically to its own operating range.
Why Active Amplification?
In a passive speaker, the amplifier produces a full-range signal that is then divided by a passive crossover inside the cabinet.
An active architecture allows the manufacturer to design the amplifier, DSP and loudspeaker drivers as one complete system.
Sonus faber therefore knows exactly which amplifier will be driving each Duetto driver rather than having to design the loudspeaker around an unknown external amplifier.
100W Class AB Tweeter Amplifier
Each tweeter receives its own 100W Class AB amplifier.
Using separate amplification allows the high-frequency system to be optimised independently of the considerably greater power requirements of the midwoofer.
250W Class D Midwoofer Amplifier
The 134mm midwoofer is driven by a separate 250W Class D amplifier.
Class D is particularly useful where substantial power needs to be delivered efficiently within a relatively compact enclosure.
350W Per Speaker
The two amplifier channels therefore provide 350W of installed amplification within each Duetto cabinet.
Across the stereo pair, four dedicated amplifier channels are operating simultaneously.
Why Not Use One Amplifier for Everything?
Bass reproduction requires much more power and driver movement than treble reproduction.
Separating the amplification means the tweeter amplifier is not being asked to deal with the large current demands of the midwoofer, while the midwoofer gets an amplifier designed specifically around its needs.
28mm Silk-Dome Tweeter
High frequencies are handled by a 28mm silk-dome driver.
The motor uses a ferrite magnet system with a copper cap, while a dedicated waveguide controls the acoustic relationship between the tweeter and the front baffle.
Why Silk?
Silk and other textile diaphragms combine low moving mass with useful natural damping.
That makes them a familiar part of Sonus faber's approach to high-frequency reproduction.
Dedicated Waveguide
The tweeter does not simply sit on a flat baffle.
A shaped waveguide controls how its output spreads away from the dome and helps integrate its dispersion with the larger midwoofer below.
134mm Long-Excursion Midwoofer
The midrange and bass are reproduced by a 134mm long-excursion driver.
Its motor uses a neodymium magnet together with a copper cap and aluminium ring.
Why Long Excursion?
A relatively compact driver needs considerable controlled movement to generate strong low-frequency output.
The long-excursion design allows greater forward and backward travel while the active amplifier and DSP remain in control of the driver.
37Hz Bass From a Compact Cabinet
Sonus faber specifies frequency response down to 37Hz.
That is unusually deep for a speaker measuring only 342mm high and using a single 134mm midwoofer in each cabinet.
How Is That Possible?
Duetto benefits from the combination of:
- Long-excursion drive units
- Dedicated 250W bass/mid amplification
- DSP
- Precisely controlled enclosure tuning
- A curved vented cabinet
An active system allows these elements to be engineered together rather than treated as separate parts.
37Hz–30kHz Frequency Response
The published operating range extends from 37Hz to 30,000Hz.
This gives Duetto considerably deeper low-frequency extension than many passive speakers of similar physical size.
Does Duetto Need a Subwoofer?
Not automatically.
For most music listening in an appropriate room, 37Hz extension is already substantial.
A subwoofer becomes particularly useful if:
- You want deeper electronic sub-bass
- You listen to pipe organ
- You want greater low-frequency headroom
- You use Duetto extensively for films
- Your room is towards the larger end of Duetto's recommended range
105dB Maximum SPL
Sonus faber specifies maximum output at 105dB SPL measured at one metre.
That gives the compact system useful dynamic capability without pretending that it is a replacement for a very large floorstanding loudspeaker in an enormous room.
1900Hz Crossover
The acoustic handover between midwoofer and tweeter takes place at 1900Hz.
Because Duetto is an active DSP-controlled system, Sonus faber can tune the interaction between amplifier, crossover and drivers as a complete package.
Digital Signal Processing
DSP is central to Duetto's architecture.
It allows Sonus faber to manage driver integration, system equalisation and room-related settings while keeping the controls accessible to the customer through the app and setup interface.
ESS SABRE 32-Bit DAC
Digital conversion is handled by an ESS SABRE 32-bit DAC.
Because conversion takes place inside the speaker system, network streams, television audio and compatible digital sources do not require a separate external DAC.
Streaming Without a Separate Streamer
Duetto connects directly to your home network and supports several major streaming ecosystems.
Current supported services and protocols include:
- Apple AirPlay 2
- Chromecast built-in
- Spotify Connect
- TIDAL Connect
- Roon Ready
- QQMusic
- Bluetooth aptX HD
Apple AirPlay 2
AirPlay 2 allows compatible Apple devices to send audio to Duetto over the home network.
This makes it straightforward to use music and audio applications already installed on an iPhone, iPad or Mac.
Chromecast Built-In
Chromecast support provides similarly convenient network playback from compatible applications and devices.
Spotify Connect
With Spotify Connect, the Spotify application acts as the controller while Duetto streams from the service directly over the network.
TIDAL Connect
TIDAL Connect gives the same direct-to-system approach for compatible TIDAL playback.
Roon Ready
Roon Ready support allows Duetto to operate as a network endpoint within a Roon system.
Bluetooth aptX HD
Bluetooth provides a quick connection when network streaming is not required.
It is particularly handy for visitors or temporary devices that have not been added to the home Wi-Fi network.
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Duetto supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz-class wireless networking.
This gives it flexibility with common modern domestic Wi-Fi routers.
Ethernet
A wired Ethernet connection can also be used where the system is positioned close enough to the home network.
For some installations, a wired network connection can be useful where Wi-Fi coverage is inconsistent.
HDMI ARC and eARC
Duetto can replace a soundbar or conventional television audio system by connecting directly to a compatible television through HDMI ARC/eARC.
This allows the TV to send audio to the stereo pair while the speakers remain positioned properly for music playback.
Why Use Proper Stereo Speakers With a TV?
A well-positioned Duetto pair can create a much wider soundstage than the speakers built into most televisions.
Benefits can include:
- Clearer dialogue
- Greater stereo width
- More convincing music and concert soundtracks
- Stronger low-frequency weight
- A single system for television and hi-fi listening
Set the Television to PCM Stereo
For HDMI ARC operation, Sonus faber's operating guide instructs users to configure the television's audio output for PCM/Stereo.
This is worth checking if the television appears connected correctly but no sound is produced.
Optical Digital Input
An optical connection offers another straightforward method of connecting televisions and other digital sources.
As with HDMI, Sonus faber instructs users to supply a PCM digital signal when using the optical input.
Turntable Ready
One of Duetto's most useful features is the ability to accept a moving-magnet turntable directly.
The analogue input can be switched between conventional line level and phono operation.
Built-In MM Phono Stage
In Phono mode, Sonus faber specifies compatibility with moving-magnet cartridges producing approximately 2.4mV to 5.0mV.
This covers many popular MM cartridges fitted to modern turntables.
Do I Need a Separate Phono Stage?
Not if your turntable uses a compatible moving-magnet cartridge and you use Duetto's Phono mode.
If the turntable already contains its own phono preamplifier, use the appropriate line-level configuration instead.
Can I Use a Moving-Coil Cartridge?
The manufacturer specifically describes the built-in phono stage for MM cartridges in the 2.4–5.0mV output range.
A low-output moving-coil cartridge would normally require a suitable external phono stage before feeding Duetto at line level.
Check Your Cartridge Before Connecting
Do not assume every turntable can be connected directly in Phono mode. Check whether your cartridge is moving magnet and whether its output falls within Sonus faber's stated range.
Line-Level Analogue Sources
The same analogue input can be configured for a normal high-level signal.
This makes it suitable for sources such as:
- CD players
- External DACs
- Phono stages
- Compatible analogue streamers
- Other line-level audio sources
CD Without a Separate Amplifier
A conventional CD player can therefore be connected directly to Duetto's line-level input.
The speakers then provide the volume control, DAC where appropriate, amplification and loudspeaker stages.
Subwoofer Output
Duetto includes a dedicated output for an active subwoofer.
This means the system can grow if you later decide that additional low-frequency extension is required.
Automatic Subwoofer Detection
Sonus faber's setup guide says a connected subwoofer is automatically recognised by the system.
Once detected, further adjustment becomes available through the setup controls.
Adjustable Subwoofer Integration
Available subwoofer settings include:
- Gain
- Cut-off frequency
- Delay
These controls are considerably more useful than simply providing a fixed subwoofer output because they allow the extra bass system to be integrated with both the Duetto pair and the room.
Why Delay Adjustment Matters
The subwoofer may not be positioned on exactly the same physical plane as the main speakers.
Adjustable delay helps compensate for timing differences so the low-frequency output can integrate more coherently at the listening position.
SENSO Control Surface
The top of the speaker incorporates Sonus faber's SENSO interface.
Rather than using a conventional collection of buttons, the touch-sensitive surface responds to simple fingertip gestures.
What Can SENSO Control?
Functions include:
- Power
- Playback
- Volume
- Input selection
- Connection-related functions
Remote Control Included
Duetto is also supplied with a conventional remote control.
This provides another way to control playback, volume, mute, track navigation, input selection and display brightness without reaching for a phone.
Sonus faber App
The Sonus faber app provides deeper control over the wireless system.
It can be used for everyday operation as well as configuration and fine tuning.
App Volume and Mute
Basic listening controls include system volume and mute.
Balance Adjustment
Left/right balance can be adjusted through the app.
This is particularly useful where the listening position cannot be perfectly centred between the two speakers.
High-Frequency Adjustment
The app provides adjustable high-frequency balance.
This can help tailor Duetto to rooms with particularly reflective or absorptive furnishings.
Loudness Maximizer
A Loudness Maximizer option is also provided.
This gives the owner another way of tailoring the system to listening level and preference rather than relying on one fixed DSP voicing for every situation.
Room Placement Setting
Duetto provides different setup behaviour according to whether the speakers are positioned away from or close to a wall.
Sonus faber's default assumes the speakers are approximately 50cm or more from the wall.
Near-the-Wall Mode
If the room requires the cabinets to sit closer to a boundary, the setup interface provides a Near the Wall room-placement option.
This is a genuinely useful feature because wall reinforcement can otherwise make bass much heavier than it was under free-space conditions.
Tell Duetto Where You've Put It
If the speakers are close to a rear wall, don't simply leave the room-placement setting at its default. Selecting the appropriate placement mode gives the DSP a better starting point for your installation.
Recommended Room Size
Sonus faber's Duetto setup guide recommends rooms from approximately 20m² to 60m² for optimum stereo operation.
That is a broad working range for such a compact system and reflects the considerable amplification and low-frequency capability built into each cabinet.
Minimum Recommended Speaker Spacing
The same guide shows a recommended minimum spacing of approximately two metres for the stereo setup.
The illustrated arrangement also places the listener at roughly two metres from each speaker, creating an approximately equilateral listening triangle.
The Listening Triangle
A good starting arrangement is therefore:
- Around 2m between the speakers
- Around 2m from each speaker to the main listening position
- Left and right distances kept broadly equal
You can then adapt those distances to the actual room.
Toe-In
Begin with the speakers angled towards the main listening area and adjust gradually.
Listen for changes in:
- Vocal focus
- Soundstage width
- Image depth
- Treble balance
- Overall tonal consistency
Near-Wall Placement
Duetto's DSP makes near-wall installation more practical than it would be with many conventional passive speakers, but positioning still matters.
If the bass sounds too heavy:
- Check that Near the Wall mode is selected
- Move the speakers slightly further forward where possible
- Avoid tight corner placement
- Review any subwoofer settings
Lute-Shaped Cabinet
Despite all the wireless technology, the enclosure remains unmistakably Sonus faber.
The curved profile takes inspiration from musical instruments and avoids the appearance of a conventional rectangular electronics product.
Why Curves?
Curved cabinet walls can provide useful structural rigidity and avoid some of the simple parallel internal surfaces found in a rectangular box.
Sonus faber uses the lute-like shape across much of its loudspeaker range as both an acoustic and visual design language.
Wood Veneer
The cabinet is finished in wood rather than attempting to hide the natural-material heritage of the brand simply because Duetto is a wireless product.
Two current finishes are available:
- Walnut Wood with Black Leather
- Graphite Wood with Black Leather
Walnut Wood
Walnut gives Duetto the warmer and more traditional Sonus faber appearance.
It works particularly well in systems where the loudspeakers are intended to feel like pieces of furniture rather than anonymous electronics.
Graphite Wood
Graphite provides the same sculpted cabinet form with a darker and more contemporary appearance.
Black Leather Detailing
Leather detailing continues the material contrast commonly associated with Sonus faber designs and also incorporates the upper SENSO control interface.
Curved Rear Vent
The rear of Duetto integrates the bass vent into the sculpted cabinet architecture.
Its tuning forms part of the system's ability to reach deep into the low frequencies from a relatively small enclosure.
Heat Management
An active loudspeaker has to manage substantially more heat than a passive one because the power amplifiers and digital electronics are housed inside the cabinet.
The rear structural design therefore has to work both acoustically and thermally.
Speaker Dimensions
Each Duetto measures:
- Height: 342mm
- Width: 210mm
- Depth: 272mm
- Weight: 7.5kg
Compact Enough for a Living Room
The relatively modest dimensions are one of Duetto's advantages over a conventional collection of source components, amplifier and passive speakers.
That does not mean the speakers should simply be pushed onto the nearest shelf, though. Proper spacing and height still matter if you want the benefits of genuine stereo reproduction.
Dedicated Duetto Stands
Sonus faber offers an aluminium stand designed specifically for Duetto.
The stands are optional and sold separately.
Current Stand Dimensions
- Height: 740mm
- Width: 298mm
- Depth: 371mm
- Weight: 4.8kg per stand
Overall Height on the Dedicated Stand
Sonus faber gives an overall speaker height of approximately 1082mm when Duetto is installed on its matching stand.
Why Use the Dedicated Stand?
The stand provides:
- Correct support for the cabinet
- Appropriate listening height
- A stable floor position
- Matching industrial design
- Freedom to optimise stereo spacing and toe-in
Stands Are Sold Separately
Some Sonus faber photography shows Duetto on the dedicated aluminium stands. They are not included with the loudspeakers unless a specific Audio T package states otherwise.
Can Duetto Sit on Furniture?
Yes, provided the surface is stable, both speakers can be positioned appropriately and there is access to mains power.
Dedicated stands still give considerably greater freedom to control spacing, wall distance and listening height.
Can Duetto Go on a Bookshelf?
Physically it may fit on suitable furniture, but it should not be treated like a small background-music speaker.
The system is capable of proper stereo performance and deserves adequate spacing around both cabinets.
Duetto for Vinyl
The built-in MM phono input makes Duetto particularly unusual among premium wireless speakers.
A compatible turntable can become the only additional box required for a complete vinyl system.
A Very Simple Vinyl System
A basic arrangement can consist of:
- Turntable with compatible MM cartridge
- Duetto stereo pair
- Mains power
No separate integrated amplifier, phono stage, DAC or speaker cable is necessary.
Duetto for Streaming
Streaming is arguably Duetto's most natural application because the network functionality is built directly into the system.
There is no need to choose a separate streamer before you can begin using Spotify, TIDAL, AirPlay, Chromecast or Roon.
Duetto for Television
HDMI ARC/eARC makes Duetto an attractive option where one system needs to handle serious music listening and television sound.
Unlike a conventional soundbar, you retain properly separated left and right speakers for stereo music.
Duetto for CD
A CD player can be connected through the line-level analogue input or an appropriate digital input depending on the source.
Duetto for Radio and Podcasts
Network streaming applications can also supply internet radio, speech and podcast content without adding a separate tuner.
Duetto for Gaming
Where a games console is connected through a television, HDMI ARC/eARC can make Duetto part of the television audio chain.
Configure the TV's output correctly for PCM stereo.
Good for Rock?
The combination of 250W midwoofer amplification and 37Hz extension gives Duetto useful weight with drums and bass guitar despite the relatively compact cabinet.
Good for Electronic Music?
Yes. The deep published bass extension is especially useful with electronic material.
A subwoofer can be added if still greater low-frequency extension or output is required.
Good for Jazz?
Yes. Proper stereo separation, silk-dome treble and a dedicated active midwoofer system make Duetto well suited to acoustic instruments and smaller ensembles.
Good for Vocals?
The 1900Hz crossover leaves the midwoofer responsible for much of the vocal range before handing over to the tweeter.
DSP and dedicated amplification allow Sonus faber to control that transition precisely.
Good for Classical Music?
Yes. The separate stereo cabinets preserve scale and spatial information in a way that a compact single-box wireless speaker cannot reproduce in the same manner.
Duetto or a Conventional Passive System?
The decision is less about one being inherently better and more about priorities.
Choose Duetto If...
- You want fewer boxes
- You stream frequently
- TV integration matters
- You want a built-in MM phono stage
- You want no speaker cable between the pair
- You value app-based room adjustment
Consider Passive Speakers If...
- You enjoy changing amplifiers
- You already own premium electronics
- You want a modular upgrade path
- You need specialist analogue connectivity
- You prefer completely separate source components
Can You Upgrade Duetto?
Not in the same way as a conventional passive system where the amplifier, DAC and streamer can each be replaced independently.
The advantage is that Sonus faber has already matched those elements together.
The system can still be expanded with:
- A turntable
- CD player
- External analogue source
- Television
- Active subwoofer
- Dedicated speaker stands
Who Is Duetto For?
Duetto makes particular sense for:
- Customers wanting premium hi-fi with fewer boxes
- Streaming-led music systems
- Turntable users wanting a simple active setup
- TV and music systems sharing the same speakers
- Modern living rooms
- Rooms approximately 20–60m²
- Customers who still want genuine stereo separation
- Roon users
- AirPlay and Chromecast users
- Spotify and TIDAL users
- Customers who may add a subwoofer later
- Listeners who want app-based room adjustment
Who Might Prefer Something Else?
A more traditional system may suit you better if:
- You already own a high-quality amplifier and streamer
- Changing electronics is part of the appeal of hi-fi for you
- You require several analogue inputs simultaneously
- You want to use a low-output MC cartridge without an external phono stage
- You want very large floorstanding-speaker scale
Recommended Duetto Setup Routine
- Unpack both speakers carefully and retain the original packaging.
- Choose which cabinet will be most convenient as the Master speaker.
- Place the speakers on stable furniture or suitable stands.
- Use the dedicated Sonus faber Duetto stands where appropriate.
- Begin with approximately two metres between the speakers where the room allows.
- Begin with the listening position roughly two metres from each speaker.
- Leave approximately 50cm from nearby walls where possible as a starting point.
- If closer wall placement is required, select the Near the Wall setting.
- Connect mains power to both cabinets.
- Pair the Master and Satellite speakers.
- Configure the left/right orientation.
- Connect Duetto to the home Wi-Fi or Ethernet network.
- Install the Sonus faber app.
- Check for any available firmware updates.
- Select the appropriate room-placement setting.
- Adjust toe-in gradually from the listening position.
- Use familiar vocal recordings to optimise centre-image focus.
- Use familiar bass recordings to check wall interaction.
- Fine-tune high-frequency and balance settings only after basic placement is correct.
- If using a subwoofer, connect it to Sub Out and configure gain, cut-off and delay.
Setting Up a Turntable
- Confirm the cartridge is moving magnet.
- Check that cartridge output is suitable for the Duetto phono input.
- Connect the turntable using the appropriate supplied or required connection arrangement.
- Select Phono rather than Line operation.
- Begin playback at a conservative volume.
- If your turntable already contains a phono stage, use line-level operation instead.
Setting Up a Television
- Connect the television's ARC/eARC HDMI connection to Duetto.
- Enable ARC/eARC in the television settings.
- Set the television's output format to PCM/Stereo.
- Select the HDMI input on Duetto.
- Check dialogue and left/right imaging.
- Enable HDMI automatic switching in the Duetto setup if desired.
Adding a Subwoofer
- Use an active subwoofer with a suitable line-level input.
- Connect it by RCA cable to the Master Duetto Sub Out.
- Allow Duetto to detect the subwoofer.
- Open the system setup controls.
- Adjust subwoofer gain.
- Adjust cut-off frequency.
- Adjust delay.
- Listen from the main seating position.
- Aim for extension rather than obviously separate bass.
What's Supplied?
Sonus faber's Duetto setup documentation shows the system supplied with:
- Duetto stereo loudspeaker pair
- Removable fabric grilles
- Remote control
- Power cords
- Installation documentation
- Protective covers
Product Registration
Sonus faber encourages owners to register Duetto after purchase to obtain the applicable extended manufacturer warranty under its current terms.
Key Features
- Sonus faber Duetto
- Wireless Collection
- Active wireless speakers
- True stereo pair
- Two-way active architecture
- Digital signal processing
- Curved vented enclosure
- Lute-shaped cabinet
- 28mm tweeter
- Silk-dome tweeter
- Ferrite tweeter magnet
- Copper cap tweeter motor
- Dedicated waveguide
- 134mm midwoofer
- Long-excursion midwoofer
- Neodymium magnet
- Copper cap midwoofer motor
- Aluminium motor ring
- 1900Hz crossover
- 100W Class AB tweeter amplifier
- 250W Class D midwoofer amplifier
- 350W amplification per speaker
- Four amplifier channels per stereo pair
- 37Hz bass extension
- 37Hz–30kHz response
- 105dB maximum SPL
- ESS SABRE 32-bit DAC
- Apple AirPlay 2
- Chromecast built-in
- Spotify Connect
- TIDAL Connect
- Roon Ready
- QQMusic
- Bluetooth aptX HD
- Wi-Fi networking
- 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
- 5GHz-class Wi-Fi
- Ethernet connection
- HDMI ARC
- HDMI eARC
- Optical digital input
- Switchable Line/Phono input
- Moving-magnet phono stage
- 2.4–5.0mV MM compatibility
- Subwoofer output
- Automatic subwoofer recognition
- Subwoofer gain control
- Subwoofer cut-off control
- Subwoofer delay adjustment
- Ultra Wide Band communication
- Wireless Master/Satellite connection
- SENSO touch controls
- Remote control supplied
- Sonus faber app control
- Balance adjustment
- High-frequency adjustment
- Loudness Maximizer
- Room-placement adjustment
- Near-the-wall mode
- HDMI auto switching
- 342mm speaker height
- 210mm speaker width
- 272mm speaker depth
- 7.5kg per speaker
- Walnut Wood finish
- Graphite Wood finish
- Black leather detailing
- Dedicated aluminium stands available
- Stands sold separately
- 740mm stand height
- 4.8kg stand weight
- Suitable for music streaming
- Suitable for turntables
- Suitable for television audio
- Suitable for CD players
- Suitable for external subwoofer integration
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Sonus faber Duetto still current?
Yes. Duetto remains a current model in Sonus faber's Wireless Collection.
Are Duetto speakers active?
Yes. Amplification is built into each loudspeaker.
Do I need a separate amplifier?
No.
Do I need a separate streamer?
No for the supported streaming services and protocols because network streaming is built in.
Do I need a separate DAC?
No for Duetto's digital inputs and streaming functions. The system includes an ESS SABRE 32-bit DAC.
Are Duetto speakers truly stereo?
Yes. They are separate left and right loudspeakers.
Do the two speakers need a cable between them?
No conventional audio or speaker cable is required between the cabinets because they communicate wirelessly.
Do both speakers need mains power?
Yes.
How do the two speakers communicate?
Sonus faber uses Ultra Wide Band technology for communication between Master and Satellite speakers.
What is the Master speaker?
The Master handles the principal inputs and system management.
Does the Master have to be on the left?
No. It defaults to the left channel but can be swapped to the right.
How many amplifiers are inside Duetto?
Each speaker contains two dedicated amplifier channels, one for the tweeter and one for the midwoofer.
How powerful is Duetto?
Each tweeter has a 100W Class AB amplifier and each midwoofer a 250W Class D amplifier.
Is that 350W per speaker?
Yes, based on the two published amplifier ratings within each cabinet.
What type of tweeter does Duetto use?
A 28mm silk-dome tweeter with a dedicated waveguide.
What type of midwoofer does it use?
A 134mm long-excursion driver with a neodymium magnet system.
What is the crossover frequency?
1900Hz.
What is the frequency response?
37Hz to 30kHz.
How low does Duetto play?
Sonus faber's published lower frequency-response figure is 37Hz.
What is the maximum SPL?
105dB SPL at one metre.
Does Duetto use DSP?
Yes. It is a digitally processed active loudspeaker system.
What DAC does Duetto use?
Sonus faber's current specification lists an ESS SABRE 32-bit DAC.
Does Duetto support AirPlay 2?
Yes.
Does Duetto support Chromecast?
Yes, Chromecast built-in is supported.
Does it support Spotify Connect?
Yes.
Does it support TIDAL Connect?
Yes.
Is Duetto Roon Ready?
Yes.
Does Duetto have Bluetooth?
Yes, including aptX HD support.
Can I use Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi?
Yes.
Does Duetto support 5GHz Wi-Fi?
Yes. Sonus faber's setup guide specifies both 2.4GHz and 5GHz-class Wi-Fi operation.
Can I connect a television?
Yes. HDMI ARC/eARC and optical digital inputs are provided.
Does Duetto support eARC?
Yes.
Can Duetto replace a soundbar?
Yes for stereo television audio, with the advantage of physically separated left and right speakers.
What audio format should my TV output?
Sonus faber's setup guide specifies PCM/Stereo for HDMI and PCM digital audio for the optical input.
Can I connect a turntable?
Yes.
Does Duetto have a phono stage?
Yes. The analogue input can be switched to Phono mode for compatible MM cartridges.
What cartridges can the phono stage use?
Sonus faber specifies moving-magnet cartridges producing approximately 2.4mV to 5.0mV.
Can I use a Rega MM cartridge?
Many Rega moving-magnet cartridges fall within broadly conventional MM output levels, but check the specification of the exact cartridge before connecting it directly.
Can I use a moving-coil cartridge?
A low-output MC cartridge would normally require an appropriate external phono stage feeding Duetto at line level.
Can I connect an external phono stage?
Yes, using the analogue input in line-level mode.
Can I connect a CD player?
Yes.
Can I add a subwoofer?
Yes. Duetto provides a dedicated subwoofer output.
Does Duetto detect the subwoofer automatically?
Sonus faber's setup documentation states that a connected subwoofer is automatically recognised.
Can I adjust the subwoofer crossover?
Yes. Cut-off frequency adjustment is provided.
Can I adjust subwoofer level?
Yes, through the gain control.
Can I adjust subwoofer delay?
Yes.
What is SENSO?
SENSO is Sonus faber's touch-sensitive upper control surface.
Can I control Duetto without my phone?
Yes. SENSO controls and the supplied remote can both be used.
Is a remote control included?
Yes.
What can the Sonus faber app control?
The app provides volume, mute, equalisation, system settings, Wi-Fi management and other configuration options.
Can I adjust treble?
The current Sonus faber app provides high-frequency adjustment for Duetto.
Can I adjust left/right balance?
Yes.
What is Loudness Maximizer?
It is one of the user-selectable sound-adjustment options provided in the Sonus faber app.
Can Duetto compensate for being close to a wall?
Yes. The setup system includes a Near the Wall placement option.
How far from the wall should Duetto be?
Sonus faber's default setup assumes approximately 50cm or more from the wall. Use the Near the Wall setting when closer placement is necessary.
What room size does Sonus faber recommend?
The setup guide recommends approximately 20m² to 60m² for optimum stereo use.
How far apart should the speakers be?
Sonus faber's setup guide illustrates approximately two metres as a recommended minimum starting distance.
How far away should I sit?
The manufacturer's diagram uses roughly a two-metre listening distance from each cabinet as a starting arrangement.
Should I toe the speakers in?
Experiment with a modest inward angle and optimise from the main listening position.
Can Duetto work in a small room?
Yes, although Sonus faber's published optimum room guidance begins at approximately 20m².
Can Duetto work in a large room?
The manufacturer recommends rooms up to around 60m² for optimum stereo performance.
What are the speaker dimensions?
342mm high, 210mm wide and 272mm deep per cabinet.
How much does each Duetto weigh?
7.5kg according to Sonus faber's current specification.
Why do some older specifications say 6.8kg?
Earlier material and some retailer pages carry the older figure. Sonus faber's current technical page specifies 7.5kg.
What finishes are available?
Walnut Wood with Black Leather and Graphite Wood with Black Leather.
Are the stands included?
No. The dedicated Duetto stands are sold separately.
What are the Duetto stands made from?
Sonus faber specifies aluminium construction.
How high are the current Duetto stands?
740mm.
How wide are the stands?
298mm.
How deep are the stands?
371mm.
How much does each current stand weigh?
4.8kg.
Why do some older pages say 7.8kg?
That figure appears in older product information. Sonus faber's current dedicated stand page specifies 4.8kg each.
How tall is Duetto on its stand?
Sonus faber gives an overall height of approximately 1082mm.
Can I use different stands?
Yes, provided they are stable, appropriately sized and position the speakers at a suitable listening height.
Can Duetto sit on a sideboard?
Yes, if the surface is stable and allows suitable spacing and room positioning.
Is Duetto good for vinyl?
Yes. The built-in MM phono stage makes it particularly convenient for a compact turntable system.
Is Duetto good for streaming?
Yes. Network streaming is one of its principal applications.
Is Duetto good for TV?
Yes. HDMI ARC/eARC makes television integration straightforward.
Is Duetto good for rock?
Yes. Its active midwoofer system and 37Hz response provide substantial bass capability for the cabinet size.
Is Duetto good for electronic music?
Yes, with the option to add a subwoofer for even deeper bass.
Is Duetto good for jazz?
Yes.
Is Duetto good for classical music?
Yes. Its separated stereo cabinets allow proper soundstage width and image placement.
Can I use Duetto without the Sonus faber app?
Basic operation is possible using the remote, SENSO controls and supported streaming services, but the app provides access to useful configuration and sound settings.
Does Duetto need firmware updates?
Sonus faber's control system allows product software to be kept updated. Checking for updates during initial setup is recommended.
Is Duetto better than a passive system?
It offers a different set of advantages. Duetto prioritises integration, simplicity and manufacturer-matched amplification, while a passive system offers greater freedom to change individual electronics.
Should I audition Duetto before buying?
Yes. It is particularly useful to compare it with a conventional amplifier and passive-speaker system at a similar overall budget.
Related Sonus faber Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy Sonus faber Duetto From Audio T?
Duetto looks wonderfully simple once it is installed, but there are plenty of decisions worth getting right beforehand: speaker spacing, mains access, network connection, wall distance, stand choice, turntable compatibility, television configuration and whether an external subwoofer would be useful.
Audio T can demonstrate Duetto as a complete system, compare it with conventional passive loudspeakers and amplification, and help configure streaming, HDMI, vinyl and subwoofer integration. That is particularly worthwhile with a product capable of replacing so many separate hi-fi components.
- Sonus faber demonstrations
- Duetto demonstrations
- Active versus passive system comparisons
- Streaming setup advice
- AirPlay setup guidance
- Chromecast setup guidance
- Roon setup guidance
- Spotify and TIDAL setup advice
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet guidance
- HDMI ARC/eARC setup
- Television PCM configuration advice
- Turntable compatibility advice
- MM cartridge matching
- External phono-stage advice
- CD player integration
- Subwoofer matching
- Subwoofer crossover setup
- Room-placement configuration
- Speaker-positioning advice
- Dedicated Duetto stand advice
- Part-exchange options
- Home demonstration options where available
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration of the Sonus faber Duetto or discuss how it could replace a conventional amplifier, streamer and passive-speaker system.