AlmaataKZ said:
As I am looking into optios for small actives to use in the bedroom, some more models appear on the radar:
B&O BeoLab 4 (and 4pc). Class d actives, replaceable covers, signal sensing power on, minijack input, 4 inch bass driver, wall and floor stands, a bit expensive, distinct looks.
As good as the Beolab 4s are (I have heard them and they were impressive, sounding way better than a Meridian M80), I didn't like the fabric covering.
Like the B&W Zeppelins, they are dust magnets and you would be continuously washing their 'socks'. (The staff at the Loewe Galerie' in Chichester - where I last heard them - said this was a problem with their display/demo B4s even though the place was spotless to almost cleanroom standards!)
The B&Os also seem to only have one 3.5mm minijack connection with no options for USB or optical.
The Ruarks look a good prospect except it's not clear yet if they are active or powered. (The WHF blurb doesn't make this clear.) Again, only a minijack connection.
Kef X300As are more powerful, a bit bigger, and have 24 bit/96khz capable USB connection to their own internal DAC as well as 3.5mm minijack. (And are true active designs.)
The KEFs are class A/B though, so they will get warm (heatsinks) and burn more electricity. They don't look very nice though. (I saw them last week in my local Audio-T).
One day someone will make stylish, class D powered, true active speakers with USB/optical/wireless connectivity (and some useful DSP settings) that are easy to keep clean.