PSB Alpha P3 Compact Bookshelf Speakers (Pair)
PSB Alpha P3 Compact Bookshelf Speaker
All NEW Alpha Series models employ a ¾” (19mm) black anodized aluminum dome tweeter that extends the high-frequency response beyond the Alpha’s original measurements and minimizes distortion for a rich, balanced listening experience. A waveguide on the front of the tweeter works to perfect on and off-axis performance while smoothing the response for improved resolution and detail. The ferrofluid cooled tweeter on the P3 has also been precision engineered to sit below the woofer to provide precise stereo imaging at any height.
Powerful woofer with dual layer voice coils
At the heart of every good speaker is a great woofer that produces low distortion and high output levels. With the NEW Alpha Series, the 4” (102mm) woofer employs dual layer voice coils with a very powerful magnet structure and a cone that is made from a special textured polypropylene compound that prevents breakup. With bass reflex loaded through Paul’s original port tube design from the ’70s, the woofer adds back wave energy to extend the bass response and improve efficiency down to 43Hz.
Custom-built and perfected
The Alpha Series’ NEW crossover wasn’t custom designed to simply just direct low and high frequencies to the woofer and tweeter. It was re-engineered to control the directivity and flatten the frequency response while utilizing an unusually complex Acoustic Linkwitz-Riley filter design that is designed to get a perfect blend between the drivers and keep distortion at its lowest even at high volumes.
Unique modular cabinet design
The P3 has a unique combination of wall thickness and bracing to control resonances and provide a perfect platform for the driver components. The P3 cabinet’s internal damping material was first used in PSB’s most high-end models, and has now been adopted by the Alphas and positioned precisely for optimum effectiveness. A premium woodgrain vinyl finish and chrome front baffle highlights combine with magnetically attached grilles to provide a rich and timeless design.
- ¾” (19mm) Black anodized aluminum dome tweeter with front waveguide
- 4” (102mm) Textured polypropylene woofer with rubber surround
- Bass reflex cabinet design with a rear-firing port
- Acoustically-transparent detachable magnetic grilles
- Five-way gold-plated binding post speaker terminals
- High-quality woodgrain vinyl finish
- Available in Black Ash or American Walnut
Customer Reviews
I know nothing about audio. My husband knows a bit. The speakers were a gift for him, and he seems to like them. He wanted PSB speakers because his first pair lasted for 30 years.
I have these hooked up to an Aiyima A07 MAX in stereo mode. I'm currently using them in a nearfield setup on my desktop. I use my speakers for music, gaming, and movies. I needed a bookshelf speaker that would hit a sound signature I liked (neutral with slight bass boost), and within a restricted form factor. I chose these based on reviews on forums and reddit.
The sound is great, I'm surprised how low these can get at this price point. These are considered slightly bass boosted to some but for myself, I think its perfect. The mids are nice, highs are not harsh and blend well. The soundstage at nearfield is nice and open. I will be looking to add a subwoofer later down the line to fill that ultra low end missing with most bookshelf speakers.
The finish of the speaker looks great at this price point. The brushed metal rings around the drivers add a nice touch the aesthetic. The walnut vinyl finish looks pretty good, with a slight texture. The speaker grills easily attach with magnets, but you will need to manually align them slightly which isn't a huge deal, again at this price point. I would recommend spade connectors or banana plugs to hook these up. I went with banana plugs myself as they are easily available online.
The speakers arrived in factory fresh condition, with plastic wrapping and everything still on the units. No scratches or dents of any kind on each unit. I never would've known that they were refurbished unless I was told.
I already have a 15 years-old pair of amazing psb floor standing speakers with my main hifi system. Was a bit skeptic how these compact Alpha p3 would perform in the kitchen. I must say that I was surprised as I am hearing a crisp and detailed sound coming from them. I highly recommend them if you’re looking for a second pair of speakers !
This was an impulse buy with no high expectations, was I pleasantly surprised. What mighty little things with a surprising range for their size. I have yet to give them a proper listen (not in my primary residence) but the initial impression is that I’ll be using them as my office speakers instead as satellites for what I bought them for. Also, did I say already, they have looks, imho. Came in timely manner and they looked same as brand new. Will be keeping my eye on this shop.
I bought the PSB Alpha P3’s to use as surrounds in my 5.1 setup. These sound great paired with my T20’s & C10. Wanted to go with the P5 but space was an issue. Very happy though with these P3’s great little speaker for the price.
