Sony's push into high-resolution audio continues with the introduction of its Core Series of high-performance speakers. The new models include the SS-CS3 floor-standing speaker ($240 each), SS-CS5 bookshelf speakers ($220/pair), SS-CS8 center-channel speaker ($170), and SS-CS9 10-inch subwoofer ($240).Sony says the super-tweeters on its Core Series speakers elevate the maximum frequency response to 50,000 Hz. While humans can't actually hear above 20,000 Hz (or so), modern high-resolution audio formats can store information in that range. Now, Sony offers speakers that can reproduce those frequencies—isn't progress wonderful? Hopefully, the elevated high-frequency spec translates into accurate, smooth treble response.For the last couple of years, Pioneer enjoyed lots of positive feedback for its Andrew Jones-designed line of highly affordable, high-performance speakers. For example, the SP-BS22 bookshelf speaker was a Stereophile Magazine 2013 Product of the Year runner-up. With its new Core Series, Sony aims directly at the same sort of "audio enthusiast on a budget" that Pioneer went after.Of course, it's impossible to draw any conclusions about the sound quality offered by the Core Series without hearing the new speakers in person, but spec-wise, the new Sony bookshelf does come out ahead of the equivalent Pioneer—at least in terms of power handling, efficiency, and high-frequency response. The towers are about evenly matched, and the Pioneer center channel actually beats the Sony version by a hair (spec-wise) thanks to a higher efficiency rating. On the other hand, Sony's subwoofer appears to be significantly more capable than what Pioneer offers—again, based on specs.Speaking of speaker specs, initially I couldn't find any online. After some searching, I finally found the official specs for the Core Series speakers on Sony's Japanese website. Enclosure system: Bass reflexImpedance: 6 ohmMaximum input: 145WOutput sound pressure level: 88dB (2.83V/1m)Reproduction frequency band: 45-50,000 HzDimensions (mm height × depth x width ): 230 × 992 × 260Mass: About 11.5KgEnclosure system: Bass reflexImpedance: 6 ohmMaximum input: 100WOutput sound pressure level: 87dB (2.83V/1m)Reproduction frequency band: 53-50,000 HzDimensions (mm height × depth x width): 178 × 335 × 220Mass: About 4.5KgEnclosure system: Bass reflexImpedance: 6 ohmMaximum input: 145WOutput sound pressure level: 86dB (2.83V/1m)Reproduction frequency band: 55-25,000 HzDimensions (mm height × depth x width): 430 × 146 × 220Mass: About 5.0KgEnclosure system: Bass reflexUse unit: 250mm cone type × 1Reproduction frequency band: 28-200HzHigh-cut frequency: 50-200HzPractical maximum output: 115WPower consumption: 70WDimensions (mm height × depth x width): 295x345x400Mass: About 11.5Kg