Description
Bearing more than a passing resemblance to the smaller fact 8, the fact 12 was (late) summer 2013’s big arrival. Now, five years later, we have the fact 12 signature. The signature changes are outwardly subtle; improved cross-over, change of colour options, brushed, rather than chrome, feet but they do sound tangibly better for it.
So, just like the eight but a little bigger? Yes. . . and no.
There is some sonic familiarity, sure enough. The same light, fresh and very natural openness carries over. Again, the bass performance surprises. But it’s now ludicrously extended as well as impressively agile.
The first and, for us, most significant area where they differ is in how they relate to our beloved 500 level Naim electronics. In a situation where the eight can be perhaps just a little dry, the twelves are happy as the proverbial in the inevitable. Secondly, by virtue of the dedicated midrange dome driver, the mid-band clarity, even when the going is decidedly rough, takes a big step forward.
PMC fact 12 is well matched to Linn Akurate and Klimax electronics, Chord and to PMVs marvelous Cor. They can play loud too, if this is relevant. The new bass drivers bring something to the party too. These speakers dig out textures and, when driven hard, feel like they could actually cause structural damage.
It would be easy to overlook these in a domestic setting as just a nice looking pair of speakers. Their understated looks and relatively modest size sells them short in this respect.
It is also their trump card, of course. We have them on permanent demonstration.
