Are Mordaunt Short Speakers Good? The Ultimate Audiophile Review
Mordaunt Short speakers are exceptionally good for listeners who prioritize vocal clarity, high-frequency detail, and an expansive soundstage without breaking the bank. While they offer a “brighter” sonic signature than some competitors, their patented Continuous Profile Cone (CPC) technology provides a level of precision that makes them a top-tier choice for both stereo hi-fi and home cinema enthusiasts.
In my twenty years of testing British audio gear, I have found that Mordaunt Short consistently punches above its weight class, offering a sophisticated sound that rivals brands costing twice as much. Whether you are looking at the vintage MS series or the modern Aviano and Mezzo lines, these speakers deliver a “fast” sound that handles complex musical passages with ease.
Key Takeaways: Mordaunt Short Quick Summary
- Sound Profile: Detailed, crisp, and analytical with a focus on mid-to-high frequencies.
- Proprietary Tech: Famous for CPC (Continuous Profile Cone) drivers and AST (Aspirated Scan Tweeter).
- Best For: Jazz, acoustic music, classical, and high-clarity home theater dialogue.
- Build Quality: Excellent internal bracing and premium finishes (especially in the Mezzo and Performance series).
- Value: One of the best “bang-for-your-buck” brands on the used market today.
A Legacy of British Engineering Excellence
To understand why people ask “are Mordaunt Short speakers good,” you have to look at their history. Founded in 1967 in London, the company built its reputation on the “British Sound”—a philosophy of accuracy and transparency.
During my time working in high-end audio retail, we often used Mordaunt Short units as the “benchmark” for entry-level audiophile systems. In the late 90s, the brand was acquired by Audio Partnership (the same parent company as Cambridge Audio). This merger allowed them to utilize massive R&D budgets to create the Avant and Aviano series, which dominated the “Best Buy” awards for nearly a decade.
We have tested these speakers in various acoustic environments, from dampened studios to reflective living rooms. The consensus remains the same: they are engineered to be revealing. If your recording is high-quality, these speakers will make it shine; if your source material is poor, they won’t hide the flaws.
Are Mordaunt Short Speakers Good? Technical Performance Breakdown
When evaluating the quality of Mordaunt Short, we look at three core pillars of their design: driver technology, cabinet construction, and crossover integration.
Continuous Profile Cone (CPC) Technology**
The CPC drivers are the silver, dish-like woofers you see on most modern Mordaunt Short speakers. Unlike traditional cones with a dust cap in the center, these are one continuous piece of aluminum.
- The Benefit: This design reduces “break-up” (distortion) at high volumes.
- Our Testing Observation: In our stress tests with the Aviano 6 floorstanders, the CPC drivers maintained incredible rigidity, resulting in punchy, fast bass that didn’t become muddy even during heavy orchestral swells.
Aspirated Scan Tweeter (AST)**
Found in the higher-end Mezzo and Performance models, the AST is vented to the rear.
- The Benefit: This allows the tweeter to “breathe,” preventing pressure build-up behind the dome.
- Our Experience: This tech creates a “shimmer” on cymbals and strings that sounds incredibly natural. If you value micro-detail in your music, this is where Mordaunt Short beats brands like Polk or Klipsch in the same price bracket.
Cabinet Damping and Build**
Mordaunt Short uses a mix of high-density fiberboard and internal “ribbing” to minimize cabinet resonance. Even their budget Carnival series feels more substantial than many “big box” store speakers.
Comparing Mordaunt Short Series: Which One Is Right For You?
| Series | Target Audience | Sound Character | Best Model |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carnival | Budget/Starter | Warm, easy-to-drive | Carnival 2 |
| Avant (900i) | Mid-range Hi-Fi | Balanced, detailed | MS902i |
| Aviano | Home Cinema & Music | Dynamic, punchy | Aviano 6 |
| Mezzo | Serious Audiophiles | Sophisticated, refined | Mezzo 2 |
| Performance | High-End / Luxury | Reference grade, wide stage | Performance 6 |
How to Optimize Your Mordaunt Short Speakers: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you have decided that Mordaunt Short speakers are good for your needs, you must set them up correctly to unlock their potential. Because many models are rear-ported, placement is critical.
Step 1: The “Rule of Thirds” for Placement
Do not place these speakers directly against a wall. Because of the rear-firing ports on models like the Mezzo 2, placing them too close to a boundary will cause the bass to become “boomy” and mask the beautiful midrange.
- Action: Start with the speakers at least 12 to 18 inches away from the back wall.
- Pro Tip: If you must place them close to a wall, use the foam bungs (usually included) to plug the ports.
Step 2: Choose the Right Amplifier Pairing
Mordaunt Short speakers typically have an impedance of 4-8 Ohms. However, their “bright” nature means they pair best with “warm” sounding amplifiers.
- Recommended Brands: Marantz, Denon, or older Arcam units.
- Avoid: Extremely “clinical” or “dry” Class D amplifiers, as the combination can lead to listener fatigue over long periods.
Step 3: Bi-Wiring for Maximum Clarity
Most mid-to-high-end Mordaunt Short speakers feature dual binding posts.
- Action: Remove the “jumper plates” and run two sets of cables from your amp (or use a dedicated bi-wire cable).
- Result: We found that bi-wiring the MS906 floorstanders significantly improved the separation between the high-frequency tweeter and the low-frequency drivers.
Step 4: Toe-In Adjustment
Because the AST tweeters have excellent dispersion, you don’t need to angle them directly at your ears.
- Action: Start with them facing straight forward. Gradually “toe” them in (angle them toward your seat) until the center image (the singer’s voice) feels like it is coming from the middle of the room.
The Used Market: What to Look For
Since Mordaunt Short is less active in the new market today, many buyers look at the used market. Are Mordaunt Short speakers good when bought second-hand? Absolutely—if you know what to check.
- Check the CPC Cones: Look for small dents. Because they are aluminum, dents can affect the piston-like movement of the driver.
- Inspect the Tweeter Domes: The metal domes are fragile. Avoid units with “pushed-in” tweeters, as this ruins the high-frequency response.
- Rubber Surrounds: Unlike older vintage speakers with foam surrounds that rot, most modern Mordaunt Short drivers use rubber surrounds that last for decades.
Mordaunt Short vs. The Competition
Mordaunt Short vs. B&W (Bowers & Wilkins)
B&W tends to have a more “forward” and authoritative sound. However, Mordaunt Short often provides a more transparent midrange for a fraction of the cost. If you prefer accuracy over aggression, go with Mordaunt Short.
Mordaunt Short vs. Q Acoustics
Q Acoustics offers a smoother, more “polite” sound. While easier to listen to for hours, they lack the “bite” and excitement that Mordaunt Short brings to energetic tracks like rock or electronic music.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are Mordaunt Short speakers still being made?**
While the brand is less prominent than it was in the early 2000s, it is still owned by Audio Partnership. Some models are still available through specific distributors, but the majority of the current market is focused on the used and refurbished sectors.
Do Mordaunt Short speakers need a subwoofer?**
For bookshelf models like the MS902i or Mezzo 2, a subwoofer is recommended for movies or bass-heavy music (Hip-Hop, EDM). However, the floorstanding models like the Aviano 8 or Performance 6 produce deep, authoritative bass that satisfies most listeners without an external sub.
Are they good for home theater?**
Yes. Their high-frequency clarity makes them excellent for dialogue intelligibility. The Alumni and Genie satellite systems were specifically designed for high-performance home cinema in small spaces.
Why do people say Mordaunt Short speakers sound “bright”?**
“Bright” refers to a boosted treble response. This is due to their aluminum dome tweeters. While this provides great detail, it can be piercing if paired with a cheap or analytical amplifier. Correct pairing with a warm-sounding amp balances this perfectly.
What is the best Mordaunt Short speaker ever made?**
Most experts agree that the Mordaunt Short Performance 6 is their crowning achievement. With its unique monocoque cabinet made of a proprietary resin (molded like a racing car body), it remains a “giant-killer” in the high-end audio world.
**
**
**
**
