PMC Twenty5i vs Twenty5 - A Comparison

Since the launch of the new PMC Twenty5i series at the Bristol Show 2020 we have had a raft of enquiries asking about the differences and improved performance compared to the Twenty5 series. We recently had a demo in store of the Twenty5 22, Twenty5 23 and the new Twenty5 22i. So, thought we would write a little piece on what we heard.

Overview

For those who aren’t aware, the main changes to the new Twenty5i range over the Twenty5 series is improvements to tweeter, the Twenty5i series now houses a 19mm SONOMEX™soft-dome design, derived from PMC’s premium fact range.

A new re-engineered crossover design is also incorporated into the Twenty5i series as well as different finishes. Finally, the new range has a brushed rather than polished back panel. A more in depth article about the Twenty5i series can be read here.

The Demo

First in the line-up was the PMC Twenty5 22 – The stand mounts give a very open, clear and wide soundstage with a defined tight bass delivery. Nimble and organized timing.

Next up we had the Twenty5 23 – The floor stander gave a sense of deeper bass over and above the Twenty5 22. Although they have a smaller Bass driver then the 22, the longer transmission line of the Twenty5 23 balances this out nicely. The transmission line vent is closer to the floor which can be responsible for the extra bass weight.

Last but by no means least we listened to the Twenty5 22i – Which delivered significantly improved high frequency performance. Higher registers feel more open. It has an even taller and wider soundstage due to the increased dispersion, didn’t think that was possible as the Twenty5 series already had a massive soundstage. The Twenty5 22i are Incredibly fast and has more immediate dynamic punch than Twenty5 23 but, a more robust bass and fuller sounding all round than the Twenty5 22.

Even though it is the same size as the Twenty5 22, the i version delivers a much-improved performance, like something you would expect from a much larger loudspeaker. After listening to the speakers side by side they were our pick of the three, without a doubt.

The PMC Speakers were set up using an Innuos Zenith MK3, Chord Electronics Qutest, Leema Tucana II Anniversary and Chord Epic cables throughout.

Demo Tracks used:

Nick Cave ‘Into My Arms’

Bruce Springsteen ‘Ghost of old Tom Joad’

Nils Lofren ‘Keith Don’t Go’

Vessels ‘Radiart’

Natalie Merchant ‘River’

All tracks were streamed via Qobuz. For a free month trial with Qobuz click here.

Trade In

At Fanthorpes we love to trade in, so if you want to trade in your existing HiFi against new HiFi, contact us and we will let you know what it is worth as a trade in.

Finance Available

We can also offer buy now pay later on orders above £400, allowing you to spread or defer your payments over a year.

Nationwide Delivery and Installation Service

When you buy equipment from Fanthorpes HiFi, we will provide a nationwide delivery and installation service within mainland UK. Our installer will drive to your house and install your new HiFi. For more information about our delivery and installation service email shop@fanthorpes.co.uk or call 01482 223096.