AVM Audition CB 2.3 Bookshelf Speaker, Black (Pair)

The AVM Audition CB 2.3 is a compact 2-way bass-reflex bookshelf speaker whose solid aluminium baffle also forms the front standing edge.

Small footprint, big ambition: AVM is actually known for high-end electronics from Malsch – with the Audition CB 2.3, the manufacturer proves it can build speakers too. The ultra-high-density fibre cabinet stands rock solid, the baffle overhangs the body all round, and the rear tilt mechanism – which doubles as a third foot – lets you angle the speaker cleanly to ear height, even from a lowboard.

Why the Audition CB 2.3?

Because two purpose-designed drivers are at work here: a 30 mm fabric dome tweeter for open, finely layered highs and a 160 mm sandwich mid-woofer for pace and substance, crossing over at 1,850 Hz. The aluminium baffle looks as if it were machined from a single block, and keeps resonances largely at bay – you can hear that in the calm, clean reproduction.

What you get

A grown-up sound from a surprisingly small cabinet: 88 dB efficiency, 4 ohms nominal impedance (minimum 3.6 ohms at 240 Hz), power handling up to 140 watts, frequency range from 37 Hz to 50 kHz and a maximum sound pressure level of 102 dB. Plus a bi-wiring terminal and magnetically held front covers. This version has a black cabinet with a silver anodised aluminium baffle. Supplied as a pair.

Who is the Audition CB 2.3 suited for?

Straight talk: for anyone who wants high-end sound but has no space – or no desire – for large floorstanding speakers. It plays to its strengths in a medium-sized living room, on a lowboard, on a shelf or on stands. If you need to fill a large hall or feel genuine deep bass below 37 Hz, you're better served by a floorstander or an additional subwoofer. And because the bass-reflex port sits at the back, it likes a few centimetres of air from the wall – squeezed right up against the back wall it turns thick rather than precise.

Our verdict

A small speaker with the ambition of a large system. The Audition CB 2.3 is no stopgap for lack of space, but a deliberate choice for precision on a small footprint – it's completely in its element with AVM's own streaming amplifiers. If you think bookshelf speakers are always a compromise, you simply haven't experienced these yet. Feel free to change your mind.

Technical data

• Principle: 2-way bass-reflex, port on the rear
• Tweeter: 30 mm fabric dome
• Mid-woofer: 160 mm sandwich cone
• Crossover frequency: 1,850 Hz
• Frequency range: 37 Hz – 50 kHz
• Efficiency: 88 dB / 1 W (2.83 V)
• Impedance: 4 Ω nominal, minimum 3.6 Ω at 240 Hz
• Power handling: up to 140 W
• Max. sound pressure: 102 dB
• Connection: bi-wiring terminal
• Placement: rear tilt mechanism, also serves as a third foot
• Cabinet: ultra-high-density fibre material, solid aluminium baffle
• Finish: Black cabinet, silver anodised aluminium baffle
• Dimensions (W×H×D): 23 × 34.5 × 23.8 cm (cabinet without baffle 17 × 28.5 × 22 cm)
• Weight: approx. 6 kg each
• Scope of delivery: pair of speakers, magnetically held front covers, documentation

Frequently asked questions

How big is the AVM Audition CB 2.3?

The Audition CB 2.3 measures 23 × 34.5 × 23.8 cm (W×H×D) and weighs around 6 kg each. The cabinet itself is even more compact at 17 × 28.5 × 22 cm – the aluminium baffle overhangs it all round and also forms the front standing edge. That means it fits on any lowboard, shelf or stand.

Which amplifier suits the Audition CB 2.3?

With 4 ohms nominal impedance and 88 dB efficiency, the Audition CB 2.3 is easy to drive and can handle up to 140 watts. A solid integrated amplifier from around 50 watts is enough; it makes an especially harmonious pairing with AVM's own streaming amplifiers. We're happy to work out which combination suits your room.

How far from the wall does the Audition CB 2.3 need to stand?

The bass-reflex port sits at the back, so the Audition CB 2.3 needs a little air behind it – a few centimetres are usually enough; squeezed right up against the wall, the bass turns thick. The rear tilt mechanism, which also serves as a third foot, lets you angle it to ear height.

Is the AVM Audition CB 2.3 supplied as a pair?

Yes. The Audition CB 2.3 is supplied as a stereo pair; the listed quantity corresponds to two speakers. The box also includes the magnetically held front covers and documentation. If you need a single speaker as an addition, ask us – we'll sort that out with distribution.

Why buy the AVM Audition CB 2.3 at HD Zürisee?

Because we've carried AVM at HD Zürisee in Wädenswil for years and know which speaker suits which room and which amplifier. We listen to your situation, put together the right combination, and stay in touch after the sale – with our own technician. Call us (044 680 22 00) or message us on WhatsApp (076 534 22 00, text only, no calls).

Goes well with

You'll find matching electronics under streaming amplifiers and integrated amplifiers, safe footing comes from speaker stands. For cabling, check out speaker cable, and you'll find more speakers in the speakers overview.