Fyne Audio has spent the past few years proving that Scotland can still build serious passive loudspeakers without needing to shout about it from a misty hilltop like Sean Connery holding a claymore. But with the new Cubitt 5, the Glasgow-based brand is stepping into a very different fight: the fast growing active speaker category, where convenience, connectivity, and real hi-fi performance are no longer allowed to live in separate rooms.
Fyne Audio is calling the Cubitt 5 its first active speaker, although that wording may cause some confusion for buyers who see “active,” “wireless,” and “Bluetooth” tossed around like loose cabers at a Highland Games. In traditional hi-fi terms, active speakers usually mean each driver has its own dedicated amplifier channel and a crossover before amplification. Most require a wired connection to a pre-amplifier or sources for optimal performance.
Either way, Fyne is entering a category that has become far more competitive and price sensitive; all of the usual suspects understand the appeal of compact powered speakers that reduce box count, simplify setup, and work in real rooms without requiring a rack full of components. For many buyers, the priorities are clear: easy connection to a TV, turntable, phone, computer, or game console, enough power for a living room or desktop system, and a price that does not turn convenience into a luxury tax.
That is where the Cubitt 5 has to make its case. At $749, it needs to offer more than Bluetooth in a nice cabinet.
Cubitt 5: Fyne Audio’s First Active Speaker Keeps Things Practical
The Cubitt 5 brings Fyne Audio into the active speaker category with a compact system built around the company’s 12.5cm IsoFlare point source driver. The design is intended to improve stereo imaging and coherence, while FyneFlute surround technology is used to reduce unwanted coloration by limiting energy reflected back down the driver cone.
Connectivity is a big part of the appeal. The Cubitt 5 includes Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD and AAC, optical digital input with support for files up to 24-bit/96kHz, analogue RCA inputs, HDMI ARC for TV use, a subwoofer output, and a built-in moving magnet phono stage. That means buyers can connect a turntable, TV, phone, game console, computer, or subwoofer without building a full component system around the speakers.
Source switching is handled from the supplied remote, not an app. That keeps operation simple, although some buyers may expect app control at this point. Fyne is positioning the Cubitt 5 as a straightforward hi-fi solution for modern living spaces rather than a full wireless streaming platform.
The cabinets use high-density construction with internal bracing to reduce vibration, while the front-firing bass port should make placement near a rear wall easier. That matters for buyers using these speakers in bedrooms, offices, apartments, and living rooms where speaker placement is not always ideal.
The Cubitt 5 will be available in Midnight Black, Pearl Titanium, Olive Green, Pebble Grey, and Arctic White. There are no wood finish options, which may disappoint some traditional Fyne customers.
Specifications
| Frequency response (-6dB typical in room) | 43Hz – 34kHz |
| Drive unit complement | 5-inch IsoFlare with 19mm concentric titanium dome tweeter (time aligned point source) |
| Inputs | Bluetooth 5.0 aptX HD & AAC, HDMI ARC (2.0 PCM), Analogue RCA line, Phono (MM or high output MC), Optical (digital) |
| Standby Power Consumption | <0.5W |
| Mains Voltage | 100- 240V (universal) |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | Primary Unit: 260 x 165 x 215mm (10.2 x 6.5 x 8.5″), Secondary Unit: 260 x 165 x 223mm (10.2 x 6.5 x 8.8″) |
| Net Weight – Each | Primary unit: 4.2kg (9.3lbs), Secondary Unit: 3.6kg (7.9lbs) |
| Amplifier Power | Total maximum 240W, DSP active crossover |
| Configuration | Wired speaker level connection between Primary & Secondary |
| Outputs | Subwoofer |
| Resolution | 24 bit/ 96kHz (maximum) |
| Remote Control | IR |
| Standby Activation | 20 mins (in absence of signal) |
| Power Consumption | 200W |
The Bottom Line
The Fyne Audio Cubitt 5 looks like a smart first move into active speakers because it does not pretend to be something it isn’t. For $749, it offers a 12.5cm IsoFlare point source driver, FyneFlute surround technology, HDMI ARC, optical input, RCA, subwoofer output, Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD and AAC, and a built-in MM phono stage. That combination gives it real flexibility for vinyl, TV audio, desktop use, gaming, and casual wireless streaming without forcing buyers into a full separates system.
What makes it different is the use of Fyne’s IsoFlare driver technology in a compact powered speaker aimed at a younger, convenience-driven audience. What is missing is just as important: there is no app, no aptX Lossless or LDAC, and no native Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, or Qobuz Connect support. KEF, Klipsch, Q Acoustics, Triangle, and Cambridge Audio already own pieces of this market, so Fyne has not walked into an empty room. But with phono, HDMI ARC, optical, sub out, and IsoFlare at this price, the Cubitt 5 gives the Scots a credible shot.
Pricing & Availability
Pricing is £549, €649, or $749, with availability expected in June 2026.
For more information: fyneaudio.com/cubitt-series/
Related Reading:
- Elipson Unveils Facet II 6 Active BT Speakers With AptX HD, MM Phono, And HDMI ARC
- Edifier M90 Review: Compact Speakers With Big Sound For Desktop Or TV Use
- Cambridge Audio Launches L/R Active Wireless Speakers At CES 2026 To Take On KEF
- Klipsch Unveils Next-Gen Powered Speaker Line At CES 2026, Powered By Onkyo And Dirac Live
Larry
May 17, 2026 at 11:55 am
Hi Ian,
I hope you’re doing well.
I enjoy all the articles about $1K (and below) powered speakers, your group reviews. I’m a big believer in the 80/20 rule with these products, as they help more people listen to music with very little effort. I also think that leaving streaming out of the feature set makes sense, when for $90 a user can add a WiiM Mini. (It took KEF a year to implement Qobuz Connect.)
I have two other quick items for you. 1) Lowe’s sells 12″x12″x1.5″ cement paving stones for $1.25ea. I bought a pair to use as speaker isolators in the condo I’m staying in. Outside of using (a can of $5) spray foam to fill speaker stands, this is the cheapest and most effective Hi-Fi tweak I’ve discovered.
2) I’ve exchanged a couple of emails with Scott McGowan (Paul’s son) from Spout HiFi. I suggested he call you to chat about the feature set for his forthcoming product. I figure you know more about where something like Sprout could fit in the market.
Larry