Hi-Fi+ 2025 AWARDS ｜PMC ACTIVE twenty5.22i Bookshelf

‹ ›

Date: 2025-02-12

Launched at the 2024 Bristol Audio Show, PMC presented an active upgrade kit for the two-way standmounts and floorstanders in its twenty5i range of loudspeakers. Designed as a swappable module to fit into the passive loudspeaker’s rear panel (which combines crossover and terminal block), it comprises a direct replacment, with an electronic analogue crossover and two 100-watt Class D power amplifiers made by ICEpower. The Active crossover is a pure analogue design, with none of the DSP tone shaping and tweaking seen in other designs. Installing this active unit is a simple case of removing the existing back panel, disconnecting the driver cables and connecting them to the Active kit then replacing it on the cabinet. Something that PMC say can be done by dealers and end users alike.

Clear advantages
“Active operation done this well confers clear advantages when it comes to dynamics,” says Jason Kennedy in his review, adding that, “the absence of components between the amp and drive unit means that they have a degree of grip that is rare in passive speakers. It means that you get muscular, controlled bass and precise level tracking across the board, when the signal says ‘jump’ the twenty5.22i’s jump.” While they trade some refinement for energy, Jason felt that “It’s enough to make many passive systems seem limp by comparison and those looking for the electric energy in their music will find an awful lot to enjoy.” He signed off, saying, “the combination of transmission line loading and real control over the drivers means that they deliver dynamics and bottom end grunt that is thrilling. And anyone who likes to play their music at higher levels should give them a blast.”

SPECIFICATIONS

Available Finishes:
Walnut, Diamond Black, Oak

Frequency Response:
39Hz – 25kHz

Effective ATL™ Length:
2m (6.5ft)

Drive Units:
LF PMC 6.5” / 170mm long-throw g-weave™ cone with cast alloy chassis
HF PMC/SEAS®, 19mm twenty5i series, SONOMEX™ fabric soft dome, Ferrofluid cooled, with 34mm surround and dispersion grille

Crossover Frequency:
1.75kHz

Horizontal Directivity:
90 Degrees

Vertical Directivity:
90 Degrees

Input Connectors:
Balanced analogue XLR and unbalanced RCA

Amplifiers:
HF 100Wrms + LF 100Wrms

Gain/Sensitivity:
1Vrms = 99dB SPL @ 1m (low setting) / 109dB SPL @ 1m (high setting)

Input Impedance:
>14kΩ

Mains Power:
90-260V, IEC C14 Connector

Dimensions:
H 410mm (16.1”) W 192 mm (7.6”) D 357 mm (14”) including connectors (+ 9mm grille)

Weight:
10kg (22 lbs) each