Audiophilepure

https://www.soundstagehifi.com/index.php/equipment-reviews/2027-dynaudio-contour-20-black-edition-loudspeaker

“Loveless” from Lo Moon’s self-titled album (24/96 FLAC, Columbia / Tidal) opens with a gentle bell-like tone, similar to a vase being struck with a rubber mallet. Through my Focal 1008 Be 2 speakers, that tone’s ring was a little more pronounced than through the Dynaudios; the Danish speakers delivered a slightly warmer tone, as if from a vase made of thicker glass. The ensuing deep growl of the synth was presented with a little more thickness and weight by the Dynaudios. There is a washboard-like repeating synth effect that begins after the bell tone stops. With the Focals, the sound was quite dry and hiss-like, while the Dynaudios seemed to deliver it in a smoother, less raspy manner. Percussion hits had similar impact, both speaker pairs demonstrating dynamic proficiency, but the Focals exposed the drum skins’ texture a little more. The background synth effects, as well as reverb and decay, were more apparent through the Focals, and noticeably less so through the Dynaudios; the 20 BEs maintained focus on the foreground elements and drew less attention to the atmospheric background effects, making the Dynaudios sound more relaxed and composed. Guitars had a richer tone through the Contour 20 BEs and cymbal splashes were less prominent, while always remaining silky smooth.

Conclusion

The Dynaudio Contour 20 Black Edition is an exceptional standmount loudspeaker that elevates the Contour series to new, impressive heights. Its integration of the Esotar 3 tweeter, Confidence-inspired woofer, and upgraded crossover delivers a richly detailed, dynamically authoritative, and effortlessly natural presentation. Imaging is precise, and soundstaging is expansive. Bass performance belies the speaker’s modest size, making it fully capable as the centerpiece of a dedicated two-channel system. It’s a loudspeaker for the discerning ear, one that values honesty over hype and refinement over ostentation. If you’re seeking a standmount that combines luxury craftsmanship with high performance, this Dark Star, the Dynaudio Contour 20 BE, might just be for you.