ELAC Solano 2.0 FS287.2-GB Review

The ELAC Solano 2.0 FS287.2-GB is the floorstanding model in ELAC’s updated Solano series. It is a slim, elegant 2½-way design that pairs the company’s flagship JET 6 Air Motion Transformer tweeter with dual aluminum-sandwich woofers. Designed and built in Kiel, Germany, the “.2” update brings the latest JET 6 technology and refined voicing over the original Solano FS287. The “-GB” designation indicates the high-gloss black finish (white high gloss is also available).

Design & Specifications

The FS287.2 is a 2½-way bass-reflex floorstander with both rear and down-firing ports. It uses a handcrafted JET 6 AMT tweeter and two 150 mm AS (Aluminum Sandwich) cone drivers. One driver handles midrange duties while both contribute to the bass, with the crossover points set at 450 Hz and 2.4 kHz. The aluminum-sandwich membranes aim for high rigidity, low mass, and controlled damping.

Key specifications include:

• Frequency range: 30 Hz – 50 kHz
• Sensitivity: 87 dB (2.83 V/m)
• Nominal impedance: 4 Ω (minimum approximately 3.5 Ω)
• Recommended amplifier power: 40–300 W per channel
• Nominal / peak power handling: 130 W / 170 W
• Dimensions: 985 × 260 × 300 mm (HWD)
• Weight: 19 kg per speaker

The cabinets feature solid MDF construction with softly curved edges, excellent high-gloss finishes, and a substantial base for stability. Bi-wire terminals are provided. Optional magnetic cloth or metal grilles are available. Build quality and finish are high, reflecting the speaker’s German manufacturing origins.

Sound Quality

The Solano FS287.2 delivers a refined, highly resolving, and dynamically capable performance. The JET 6 tweeter is the star, offering exceptional speed, detail, air, and extension without harshness when properly driven. High frequencies are transparent, finely textured, and reveal subtle information in recordings with ease. Reviewers consistently praise the openness, resolution, and naturalness of the treble.

The dual 150 mm aluminum-sandwich drivers provide clean, articulate midrange and solid, controlled bass with good extension and impact for the slim cabinet. Low frequencies are precise and well-defined rather than bloated, contributing to a sense of scale and authority that belies the speaker’s elegant proportions. Overall balance is coherent and engaging, with strong dynamics, excellent timing, and a spacious, well-focused soundstage.

The .2 update improves integration and bass performance over the original Solano FS287. The speakers remain composed at higher volumes and work well for both stereo music and home-theater use. Their 4 Ω impedance and moderate sensitivity mean they benefit from a capable amplifier with good current delivery; underpowered electronics will not unlock their full potential.

Strengths

• Outstanding high-frequency resolution, speed, and air from the JET 6 tweeter
• Clean, precise midrange and controlled, impactful bass
• Excellent dynamics, timing, and spatial presentation
• Elegant, high-quality high-gloss finish and solid build
• Slim form factor that still delivers convincing scale
• Strong performance across music genres and for movies
• Made in Germany with refined engineering

Limitations

• 4 Ω impedance requires a competent amplifier
• Bass, while impressive for the size, is not as deep or powerful as larger, more expensive towers
• Grilles are typically optional
• Premium pricing relative to more mainstream floorstanders

Verdict

The ELAC Solano 2.0 FS287.2-GB is a highly accomplished, refined floorstander that successfully combines exceptional high-frequency performance with solid full-range capability in an elegant package. The JET 6 tweeter elevates the speaker’s resolution and openness, while the aluminum-sandwich drivers deliver coherent midrange and controlled bass. The result is a detailed, dynamic, and musically engaging presentation that works well in medium to larger rooms.

For listeners seeking high-resolution German engineering, elegant design, and a speaker that reveals fine detail without fatigue, the FS287.2 is an excellent choice. When paired with a capable amplifier and properly positioned, it offers a level of refinement and insight that competes strongly in its price class and makes a compelling case as a long-term stereo or multi-channel solution.