If there's one thing that makes our otherwise-not-half-bad jobs a tad tiresome, it's assembling kit – the trade-off for getting to enjoy the end product. We didn't expect a pair of speaker stands to cause us too much grief, but the Custom Design RS302s – which come in 130cm and 155cm models, and can be filled to damp down resonances – can be surprisingly fiddly to build.
They're also not particularly well made: paint was flaking off as we tightened the spikes, while the base-plate on one stand was curved when it should have been flat.
However, we were impressed by what they can do for a pair of speakers. They deliver impressive detail, while vocals are clear and expressive. True, up against the class-leaders, the RS302s might lack a little weight and agility with basslines (although previous experience with Custom Design stands suggests that filling them with the company's own inert filler, £5 a bag, really helps), but they nevertheless represent solid value for money.
Custom Design RS302 review
The RS302s are not really that well made and can be surprisingly fiddly to assemble Tested at £120.00
What Hi-Fi? Verdict
Plenty of detail and clarity, especially with vocals; it’s a shame the build isn’t a little more convincing
Pros
- +
Lively, dynamic sound with reasonable timing and integration
Cons
- -
Uninspiring design and build
- -
flabby bass
- -
lack overall clarity
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