This is more than just a party speaker, though. So long as the Rubikore 2 isn’t being asked to run at very low levels, it delivers a performance that balances punch and refinement to truly excellent effect. There is certainly no shortage of rivals, but the infusion of trickle-down technology that the company has brought to the Rubikore 2 has resulted in an exceptionally talented standmount that should work extremely well in a variety of different systems.

I have to admit that, unboxing the speakers, these Dalis didn’t look very hopeful. Would this be another mass-produced, snap-together box with mediocre sound quality. Certainly, the price suggested that there wasn’t much margin for quality. But, not only do Dali manufacture in house, benefitting from economies of scale. They also have their own marketing and distribution hubs around the world so control in-country sales with more savings achieved. Thus, the final price represents excellent value.

The Dali is exceptionally capable and consistently likeable in the way it looks, sounds and interacts with other equipment. Some slight quirks in the presentation need to be taken into account, but there is a huge amount to like here.

It is conceivable that the balanced, considered and faithful nature of this loudspeaker will not suit every listener. Some will demand a little more shock and awe for their money, a bonfire-night description of where their money has gone. But for the rest of us, the adaptable and meticulous nature of the DALI Rubikore 2 will greatly reward over the long haul.

The DALI isn't flawless - quiet listeners need not apply - but the qualities it possesses are admirable and will be enough to win many people over to its very significant charms. There is an awful lot to like here.

I have to admit that, unboxing the speakers, these Dalis didn’t look very hopeful. Would this be another mass-produced, snap-together box with mediocre sound quality. Certainly, the price suggested that there wasn’t much margin for quality. But, not only do Dali manufacture in house, benefitting from economies of scale. They also have their own marketing and distribution hubs around the world so control in-country sales with more savings achieved. Thus, the final price represents excellent value.

With the Rubikore 2, DALI has created an exemplary speaker that delivers on all fronts. It sounds fantastic and, on top, looks the same as well. The Rubikore 2 will have no problem gaining popularity in my opinion. It is a wonderfully tuned speaker that just sounds – for the lack of a better word – musical throughout.

Some listeners will mistake this even-handed, poised and uncoloured presentation for lacking passion or engagement. Others will want a bit more bang for their buck – although they’re not an undemonstrative listen, these DALIs. Still, they aren’t about to demean themselves with unwarranted low-frequency activity or unnecessary forcefulness. What they are about is as faithful a rendition of music and as complete an explanation as possible of the electronics driving them as possible, which is, for most listeners, as much as they might realistically hope for. Or, that’s how it seems to me.

As entertaining as they are informative, the formidable Rubikore 2 deliver a good time, and then some

The old Rubicon series stood for really good sound at the level just below high end. And with Rubikore, the ambitions have been raised considerably. Rubikore 2 is quite simply the best two-way compact speaker in the price range I’ve heard. As a tester, I could perhaps wish for a slightly more monitor-like sound in the upper bass. But for music enjoyment, it works perfectly. And all criticism is silenced when you experience the acoustic scene the small speakers paint: clear, crisp and full of detail. If the larger members of the series are as good, it ought to be a success.

Given the extensive background of the company, what you get for your money is more than just this excellent product. They represent years of design know-how and skill. I believe the price tag to be very fair. In fact, I’d have expected to pay a bit more for them. Ultimately, the RUBIKORE 2 are more than worthy of your investment, if you’re in the market for a pair of compact loudspeakers.