MAGAZINEThe craftmanship and sound quality of the Swiss loudspeakers from Piega are absolutely legendary. Now the manufacturer presents active speakers, which can be controlled wirelessly using an optional hub – of course in the characteristic aluminum dress: the Premium Wireless 501. All sources are connected to the hub in analog or digital form, and then sent on wirelessly. Both the hub and the loudspeakers, which are available in silver, black and white aluminum, can use their USB socket to install firmware or make individual adjustments. Three different groups and three Wi-Fi frequencies allow multiroom configuration. Bluetooth is the signal with priority. So if the owner comes home with his smartphone and the system notices the music, he can immediately take over the controls – wired sources are automatically disengaged. There is, further, an automatic loudness as well as protection against extreme volumes.
Active Floorstanding Speaker Test
Piega 501 Premium Wireless Review
Full Metal Jacket – Piega‘s favorite material aluminum has both acoustical and optical advantages.
Puzzling to us was the volume control directly on the hub itself. Via Bluetooth (aptX) the level is, of course, controlled via the source device. Apparently the Piega Connect wants to be fed only by devices with level control. We would still have appreciated a remote.
Great, on the other hand, is the simple assignment of the speaker as mono, right or left channel as well as the adaptation to corner, wall or free placement via toggle levers. When a signal arrives, an automatism awakens the entire wireless system and equally sends it back into standby mode after ten minutes of inactivity; there is therefore no on/off switch. A comfortable idea, as we think.
Audiophile experience
The Premium Wireless 501 is extremely balanced in sound, charismatic in its vocal range and with very fine resolution and plasticity, not least due to the proven ribbon tweeter. However, the two 120 bass midrange drivers in congenial coordination with the amplifier electronics also make a great impression in the bass range. The Swiss is further a strong competitor for the beauty award. Fantastic!
Placement Options
The presets for “free-standing”, “wall” and “corner” placement are very useful. The USB socket allows software options.
Verdict: Piega 501 Premium Wireless
Piega's 501 is the minimally smaller of two new, smart active floorstanding speakers. While sounding absolutely excellent the aluminum enclosed speaker also offers wireless operation in combination with the "Connect" box.
Technical Details: Piega 501 Premium Wireless
Floorstanding speakers (active)
Piega 501 (Premium Wireless)
Price: from 4700 € (Last check: 29.10.2021)
Dimensions WxHxD: 24 x 104 x 24 cm
Warranty: 6 years
Manufacturer: Piega
General Data
Measurement Values
| Lower cut-off frequency (-3dBSPL): | 41 Hz |
| Distortion factor at 63/3k/10k Hz: | 0.8/0.3/0.1 % |
| Sound pressure characteristic (at 200 mV): | 91 dBSPL |
Stereo Test
Sound Level Active speaker: 77%
Price/Performance
Lab Comment: Piega 501 Premium Wireless
Very balanced frequency response, also to the sides of the axis, with good bass qualities. It is not necessary to turn the speakers to the listening position. We like the matching options. Medium step response, very low distortion.
Features: Piega 501 Premium Wireless
Analog input, adjustment for wall/corner/free positioning, USB socket for software updates; optional hub (Connect) with analog/digital inputs, subwoofer output, Bluetooth (aptX), WiFi, volume control, no remote control/app, no (integrated) network features (streaming only via connected devices).