Canton DM 60 2.1 Virtual Surround System - Black

Product Information

What’s more, it’s a cinch to use and build quality is top-notch. Yes it’s expensive but the DM100’s performance, design and simplicity are so impressive that you won’t regret splashing out. Canton DM100 – Verdict

In terms of connections, both feature coaxial, optical digital and RCA analogue inputs. Wireless, the soundbases can be connected through aptX Bluetooth, but if you’re more inclined to use physical connections then Canton has included cables for all inputs in the box. If you want to use an external subwoofer, there’s is also a sub out connection. On the question of which is 'best' way to connect, it's impossible for Canton to give general advice on this, as there are too many possible permutations of TV/player/set-top box etc. Again, it comes down to personal preference: if you think it sounds better connected from player to DM50, go for it! Others may prefer to route all inputs via their TV, with a single lead going to the Canton.This is the second version of Cambridge Audio’s TV5 soundbase, and although it doesn’t move from the place on this list held by its predecessor, we still think it’s a very good option. Because it does what it’s this high on the list many of the more expensive bars do, at a much more agreeable price. Compare it to the Canton DM55, which is a great soundbase, but which doesn’t offer nearly the bass response that this one does.

I mainly had my DM50 on two channels: 4Music (for Bass and Treble) and QVC (for Midrange), and that seemed to do the job (I wouldn't recommend that you actually watch either channel, though!). Like the DM50 and DM75 before it, the DM100 is an outstanding performer. At first you might struggle to get your head round the sheer scale of the DM100’s sound, which doesn’t seem possible from such a slender unit. Bigger than the previous efforts and able to support up to 40 kg of weight, the DM76 is intended for TV sizes 40 inches and bigger. Inside is a 200W amplifier that drives a two-way stereo loudspeaker array that’s made up of a pair of 50mm midrange drivers and two 19mm fabric-dome tweeters. A downward-firing sub brings to the table four 100mm bass drivers for a “deep and punchy” low end performance. Oak is obviously a more solid material than glass, but it is still susceptible to vibration and is not as dense as granite. Again, I would recommend that you try isolating the unit from its surroundings in some way, maybe you could try some Sorbothane feet under the unit if nothing is on top of it?

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If anything, the DM100’s bass reproduction is too powerful. During Looper’s louder moments I found it a tad overpowering, boomy even, but after trimming the bass level to around -2 or -3 it sounded far more cohesive. There are also bass, treble and lip sync adjustments, plus three EQ settings that let you match its acoustics to the location – EQ1 is for free-standing sideboard placement, select EQ2 if your TV is placed on top of the unit, while EQ3 is for placement on a unit or shelf. Canton DM50 – Operation

What does this mean? When I get a bluray film that allows me to manually select standard Dolby Digital 5.1 from the audio options (not the bluray player options but the actual movie menu options) it works fine and sound is reproduced. Canton’s DM 50, reviewed last year, is perhaps best used with TVs around the 48in mark; the step-up DM 75 on test here supports screens up to 60in (or up to 40kg in weight). Bigger screens need a bigger sound and the DM 75’s roomier cabinet should provide the extra oomph you’re looking for. The front mesh plays host to a bright blue LED display that disappears when idle. There are no buttons on the unit itself – everything is controlled by a stylish silver remote. The DM75’s speaker arrangement is unusual for a soundbase. Much like full-size home cinema speakers, it uses a three-way bass reflex design with two 19mm fabric tweeters, two 50mm midrange drivers and four 100mm woofers. Power output is quoted as 200W and frequency response is 35Hz – 23kHz.x power cable (note: the Canton is German and comes with a 2 pin plug as standard. Make sure you get or have a 2 into 3 pin Euro adapter available otherwise it won't work out of the box!) Joining the Stereo and DTS TruSurround from previous models is a new Voice mode that gives speech frequencies a boost, and a Hotel mode that lets you set a maximum volume limit. Two-channel Dolby Digital decoding is also on board. Canton DM100 – Setup & Operation While we wouldn’t mess with the bass and treble levels much (the Canton sounds well balanced as it is), it’s worth switching between the Surround and Stereo modes. Stereo keeps everything solid and tightly focused, while Surround opens up the soundfield without, crucially, affecting midrange fidelity too much.

Another new feature is an Eco mode that automatically goes into standby if a signal isn’t detected for an hour (although it’s disabled if auto power is activated). The Canton DM55 remains an impeccably built soundbase. The structure is sturdy, and feels even classier than before thanks to that sleek glass top.Panasonic’s fresh take on a sound bar, this base offers the user a clean setup yet powerful sound which can’t be achieved from a TV alone.