Mission 700 Bookshelf Speakers Review: A Modern Classic Reimagined
In this Mission 700 Bookshelf Speakers review, we'll explore how Mission has masterfully bridged the gap between heritage and innovation. As an audiophile who's had the pleasure of experiencing these speakers, I can attest that they represent a significant achievement in modern speaker design. If you're considering upgrading your audio setup, you'll want to pay close attention to what makes these speakers special.
First Impressions and Build Quality
The Mission 700s immediately command attention with their elegant aesthetics. Available in either rose-tinted walnut or black real wood veneers, these speakers feature a distinctive white-front baffle that pays homage to Mission's classic designs. The build quality is absolutely top-notch, with a cabinet featuring sandwich construction and internal bracing that effectively minimises unwanted resonances.
Technical Excellence
The technical specifications of the Mission 700 are impressive:
- 6.5" (165mm) mineral-loaded polypropylene cone bass driver
- 1.25" (28mm) soft dome tweeter
- Frequency response of 45Hz-20kHz (±3dB)
- 86dB sensitivity
- 8Ω nominal impedance
Sound Performance
The Mission 700s excel in several key areas:
Bass Response
The bass reflex design and polypropylene driver deliver tight, controlled low frequencies that extend down to 38Hz (-6dB). This is remarkable for a bookshelf speaker of this size.
Midrange Clarity
The specially designed midrange driver provides exceptional vocal clarity and instrument separation. (Give our team a call if you'd like to discuss how these would pair with your current amplifier!)
High-Frequency Detail
The 28mm soft dome tweeter delivers airy, extended highs without any hint of harshness.
Innovative Features
The Mission 700's Inverted Driver Geometry (IDG) is particularly noteworthy. This design feature optimises time alignment at the listening position, creating a more coherent and natural soundstage. When paired with the advanced crossover design (operating at 3.0kHz), the result is a seamless integration between drivers.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Outstanding build quality with real wood veneer
- Excellent bass response for a bookshelf speaker
- Sophisticated Inverted Driver Geometry
- Wide sweet spot for flexible placement
- Compatible with amplifiers from 25-150W
- Exceptional midrange clarity
- Heritage-inspired design with modern technology
Cons
- 86dB sensitivity might require more powerful amplifiers
- Premium pricing (though justified by performance)
- Size may be larger than some bookshelf spaces
Who Are These Speakers For?
The Mission 700 Bookshelf Speakers are perfect for:
- Audiophiles seeking high-end performance
- Music lovers who appreciate acoustic instruments
- Those with medium to large listening rooms
- Enthusiasts who value both performance and aesthetics
Setting Up Your Mission 700s
For optimal performance, consider:
- Positioning 20-30cm from rear walls
- Using high-quality speaker stands
- Partnering with a quality amplifier (chat with our team for specific recommendations!)
- Proper speaker cable selection
The Final Note: Heritage Meets Modern Excellence
The Mission 700 Bookshelf Speakers represent a remarkable achievement in speaker design. They successfully honour their heritage while incorporating modern innovations that deliver exceptional performance. Whether you're upgrading your system or starting your audiophile journey, these speakers deserve serious consideration.
Have questions about how the Mission 700s might fit into your setup? Our team at The Audio Tailor is always happy to help - just give us a call on 1300 308 711 or drop us an email at sales@theaudiotailor.com.au.