Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- Great Arendal sound and build quality in a more compact size
- Smooth and detailed top end that's on the warmer side of neutral and not harsh
- Large and detailed soundstage, with locked-in center imaging and great dispersion
- Top-notch design and build quality, with stout, well-built, and inert cabinets
- Offers flexibility in placement, due to being able to be used in sealed or ported configuration
Product Considerations
- The 1961 bookshelf speakers have no real bass on their own, and need to be paired with a subwoofer
- Requires a decent receiver or amplifier to sound its best
- The included magnetic grills on the towers may detract from the otherwise stellar design
- The Atmos toppers might not sound as good as having actual speakers mounted above when using them for bouncing sound off the ceiling
- The center channel may be a weak point if used with tower speakers, because it is so small
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Polk R700: 1961 has quicker, more textural, and detail-oriented bass
- Vs Sonus Faber Lumina 3: The Lumina 3 has more top-end presence
- Vs Polk XT60: The Arendal has better build, construction, and style
Takeaway:
The 1961 speakers offer a compact design with excellent sound quality, making them a great choice for small to medium-sized rooms. Premium build quality and a detailed soundstage provide an immersive listening experience for both music and movies.
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
Compared to their other products
We think it's helpful to understand how this product fits into the brand's full lineup (below). To learn more about these products, visit the brand's page.
1723 S Series
- Positioning: Compact line designed for smaller spaces while maintaining high performance.
- Description: Offers a compact design with the same high-quality components as the larger 1723 Series, featuring a 6.5" driver instead of the 8" found in the full-size models. This makes it ideal for those with limited space who still want powerful sound, without compromising on the clarity and detail that the 1723 Series is known for. It provides a cost-effective solution for those who want to mix and match with the larger 1723 models, ensuring seamless integration and consistent sound quality.
1723 Series
- Positioning: High-performance line for serious hi-fi and home theater setups.
- Description: Built with custom components and high-density fiberboard cabinets, offering superior sound quality and durability. It features larger 8" drivers, providing a richer and more expansive soundstage compared to the 1723 S Series. This series includes THX certification ensuring top-notch audio fidelity.
1528 Series
- Positioning: Flagship line representing the pinnacle of Arendal Sound's engineering and design.
- Description: Crafted with advanced materials like a 28mm lithium-magnesium tweeter and a custom Carbon-Graphene midrange driver, delivering exceptional clarity and depth. It surpasses the 1723 Series in both build and sound quality, making it ideal for audiophiles who demand the best in both music and home cinema.
See all the brand's products
Read the reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
1961 Center
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Manufacturer's notes
This speaker is for you if you need the ideal center for the 1961 Tower, Monitor, or Bookshelf, you want a small sealed Center speaker that is easy to integrate, even in TV cabinets, you have a listening distance up to 3.5m
Manufacturer Specs
- Dimensions (H/W/D): 16.3 x 42.5 x 15 cm (6.4 x 16.7 x 5.9 in)
- Weight: 7.25 kg (15.2 lbs)
- Enclosure: Sealed
- Tweeter: 28mm
- Woofer: 2 x 5.5"
- Frequency response: 73Hz-20KHz (+/-3dB)
- Impedance: 4-ohm nominal
- Crossover frequency: 1500Hz
- Sensitivity: 87dB / 2.83v / 1m
- Recommended amplifier: Up to 250W RMS @ 4ohm
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Average Price
$501-$1,000
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Brand Popularity
38
of 600+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products
28
Founded
2015
Our take on the brand
Arendal Sound is a Norwegian-designed hifi brand whose 1723 series is THX Ultra certified for rooms up to 3,000 cubic feet, featuring cabinets made from high-density fiberboard instead of standard MDF for better sonic performance. Their speakers use a distinctive waveguide-loaded tweeter design for controlled dispersion and lower crossover points, while their subwoofers feature the Avalanche 1200 IQ amplifier with an LCD control interface.
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What if you spend a bit more?
Bison Center
1600
1600
/
10
Reviews
Totem
Totem Acoustic is known for its unique approach to speaker design, using crossoverless woofers for more natural sound reproduction and producing an immersive soundstage despite compact speaker sizes. The Canadian-made speakers feature distinctive materials like borosilicate damping in their cabinets and CNC-machined driver components, appealing to audiophiles who prefer a unique voicing over neutral-sounding speakers.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Small compared to others in its price range, making it suitable for smaller spaces and those with aesthetic constraints
- Capable of expansive staging, creating a holographic presentation with good depth and dimensionality, regardless of the amplifier used
- Delivers refined treble regardless of the price of the amplifier connected
- Spacious sound space and large sound stage
Product Considerations
- The claws that come with the Totem Bison are not adjustable
- Totem recommends zero toe-in, and this seems to be a good recommendation
- Sound may vary, based on personal height
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Totem Bison has forward side of neutral treble versus neutral to dark treble of the Buchardt S400 Mark II; the Bison is slightly warm in the midrange versus the Buchardt being warmer overall; the Bison has tonally richer bass, but the Buchardt has more bass overall
- The Totem Bison has forward side of neutral treble versus neutral to dark treble of the KEF R3 Meta; imaging on the Bison can be the same or slightly better; the Bison has tonally richer bass, but the R3 Meta has more bass overall
- Both the Totem Bison and Focal Aria 906 are on the forward side of neutral with treble, but the Bison's treble attack is slightly soft whereas the Aria 906's is slightly sharp; the Bison has a fuller midrange sound and slightly warmer tone, and the Bison's bass is juicier, more organic, and richer overall
- The PSB Alpha T20s are very similar in size to the Totem Bison Towers (32.5 inches tall), thus they are smaller audiophile floorstanding speakers
Takeaway: The Totem Bison offers attributes found in many top speakers and is a good option for those with size constraints who still want great treble refinement and a holographic midrange. It can be paired with both expensive and affordable amplifiers.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Totem Acoustic is known for its unique approach to speaker design, using crossoverless woofers for more natural sound reproduction and producing an immersive soundstage despite compact speaker sizes. The Canadian-made speakers feature distinctive materials like borosilicate damping in their cabinets and CNC-machined driver components, appealing to audiophiles who prefer a unique voicing over neutral-sounding speakers.
Visit our
Bison Center
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Product Page
Aria Evo X
1458
1458
/
4
Reviews
Focal
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Impactful bass moves air and adds visceral depth to music and movie effects, even without a subwoofer
- Seamless and engaging sound makes every album feel fresh and enthralling, maintaining consistent, pleasing audio without causing listener fatigue
- Vocal presence allows for relaxed listening and renders music in a way that encourages sharing with others
- Attractive design blends technical prowess with stylish aesthetics, with options for different finishes like Moss Green
- Wide dispersion offers a broad soundstage and an enveloping soundfield
Product Considerations
- Expense relative to its capabilities is a potential consideration
- In small rooms, performance could suffer due to the high-mounted tweeter and narrow vertical dispersion window
- When pushed, the 'No. 2' tower center channel model, being a 2-way, may run out of headroom before the No. 2 towers
- A slight lack of dynamics in the bass and high mids around the vocal sweet spot was noted
- Edgy, crisp, and definitive resolution evokes excitement, though these may not be the right choice for all listeners
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to RBH Sound 61-SFM/R, the RBH digs deeper and has its tweeter at a more typical listening height, however, the Aria Evo X No.4 is undeniably better looking
- Compared to SVS Ultra Evolution Pinnacles, the Ultra Evolution Pinnacles have deeper and more powerful bass, although its overall frequency response isn't as neutral
- Compared to JBL HDI-3800, the JBL boasts a very wide dynamic range, having a narrower dispersion but more even off-axis response
- Compared to Arendal Sound 1723 Tower, the 1723 Towers have a bit more elevated treble on-axis, but the build quality is certainly a step above the Aria Evo X No.4 or pretty much anything at their pricing, and they can dig deeper in bass
Takeaway: The Focal Aria Evo X is a stylish speaker that sounds great, making it a good option for people who care about both aesthetics and audio quality. It offers powerful performance with seamless sound, bringing music to life.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Visit our
Aria Evo X
page
Product Page
Sonetto Center G2
2499
2499
/
3
Reviews
Sonus Faber
SOUND TAKES CENTERSTAGEAt the core of the home theater setup, the Sonetto Center elevates the listener into a completely immersive experience.a legacy of innovationThe Sonetto Center brings decades of technological advancements from the Sonus faber development team into your home theater system. It introduces a fresh approach to voices reproduction for a speaker that will not be overlooked.ICONIC LUTE SHAPEThe Sonetto Center honors Sonus faber’s signature lute-inspired design. The shape seamlessly integrates with the clean aesthetics and elegant proportions of the collection, blending the front baffle of the center channel with the cabinet to create a sleek, curved structure.
Sonus Faber is an Italian hifi brand that designs speakers with unique lute-shaped cabinets inspired by traditional violin-making, featuring wood and leather materials to achieve a natural sound. Their speakers incorporate distinctive elements like cork chambers for midrange drivers and asymmetrical driver baskets that mimic natural forms, with each unit being individually tuned by ear to ensure tonal perfection.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Lute-shaped cabinets improve sound dispersion characteristics, and help them sonically disappear in the room
- Models like the Sonetto 5G2, 8G2, and Center G2 feature a Camellia midrange driver, which avoids resonances associated with round-shaped midrange drivers
- The woofers and mid-woofers feature a paper-pulp sandwich cone to ensure a natural tone, and a precise and dynamic bass response
- The DAD lens in the tweeter fixes phase issues, allowing the soft dome tweeters to perform linearly all the way out to 40 kHz
- The new concrete base provides more stability, and better vibration management
Product Considerations
- The Sonetto I G2 and Sonetto II G2 bookshelf speakers need good current to show their best, due to their sensitivity (86 dB and 87 dB respectively)
- High quality power amplification is recommended for all Sonus Faber speakers to showcase their improvements
- Careful attention to setup of the Sonetto speakers will reward the listener greatly
- Some models use a downward-firing reflex port, which provides placement flexibility, but careful attention to placement is still needed
Takeaway: The Sonetto speakers offer a smooth, musical sound with detailed clarity and tonal accuracy for both music and movies. They bring high-end design and technology from Sonus Faber's flagship models to a more accessible price point.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Sonus Faber is an Italian hifi brand that designs speakers with unique lute-shaped cabinets inspired by traditional violin-making, featuring wood and leather materials to achieve a natural sound. Their speakers incorporate distinctive elements like cork chambers for midrange drivers and asymmetrical driver baskets that mimic natural forms, with each unit being individually tuned by ear to ensure tonal perfection.
Visit our
Sonetto Center G2
page
Product Page
Founder 70LCR
1529
1529
/
3
Reviews
Paradigm
4-driver, 3 way LCR, sealed enclosure
Paradigm is a Canadian hifi speaker brand that designs and builds their products locally, using advanced materials like beryllium in their drivers and their proprietary PPA lens technology for better sound dispersion. Their speakers are favored by audiophiles seeking high-end sound at relatively lower prices, and they integrate Anthem Room Correction technology to optimize performance in modern open-concept homes with challenging acoustics.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Vocals are rendered with rich detail and precise holographic imaging
- Excellent dynamic range and can handle a large room if given enough power
- Exceptional build quality with braced, inert cabinet construction
- Cutting-edge loudspeaker design, with proprietary technologies like the AL-MAC tweeter and CARBON-X woofers
- Gorgeous aesthetics and are available in various finishes, making them suitable for high-end interior décor
Product Considerations
- Some unevenness in its measured response, though this may not be readily audible in a typical listening environment
- Some upper treble raggedness, mostly in the on-axis response
- Needed to be positioned further back for the sweet spot to properly 'open up'
- Spiked feet can be hazardous to hard flooring if not handled carefully
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Founder Series draws on innovations from Paradigm's Persona range, but adds new technologies
Takeaway: The Founder speakers offer great sound quality and luxurious design, making them a worthwhile investment for audiophiles. The 100F is an excellent choice for larger rooms, while the 70LCR offers versatility as a center or front speaker.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Paradigm is a Canadian hifi speaker brand that designs and builds their products locally, using advanced materials like beryllium in their drivers and their proprietary PPA lens technology for better sound dispersion. Their speakers are favored by audiophiles seeking high-end sound at relatively lower prices, and they integrate Anthem Room Correction technology to optimize performance in modern open-concept homes with challenging acoustics.
Visit our
Founder 70LCR
page
Product Page
What else competes at this price?
Theva Center
649
/
Released
2023
Focal
Theva Center is the perfect complement to the speakers in your Theva home cinema system. Equipped with a TNF tweeter and two Slatefiber cone drivers, this centre speaker clarifies the dialogue of any film with a high level of detail. It has been designed to be placed on a piece of furniture or on its stand (available as an option), blending elegantly into any interior.
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Sweet and smooth sound profile
- Excellent detail for the price
- Great balance and fluidity across registers
- Impressive dynamics and a wide, dimensional stereo imaging, as it can deliver a stunning soundstage
- Overall balanced tonality
- The tweeter is made from quality materials with great care
- Elegant, minimalist design that seamlessly integrates into any audio setup, with a sleek aesthetic and multiple color options
Product Considerations
- Does not feel as substantial as some other speakers in their price class
- Laid-back sound occasionally obscures some definition
- Deep bass may require a subwoofer
- The tweeter is exposed and needs to be handled with care
- Some reviewers would prefer a solid painted color rather than an imitation wood vinyl veneer
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Offers a lot of what makes the Vestia No. 1 great while saving money, but the Vestia No. 1 has more sparkling detail and pristine treble extension
- More compact and easier to place, though the Bowers & Wilkins 606 S3 looks more premium
- The L100 presented a more precise center image for vocals and dialog, but the Theva's more laid-back sound profile made them a better listen in most cases
- Stepped in pretty seamlessly for KEF LSX 2.1, which includes SVS's 3000 Micro subwoofer, showing impressive sonic skills, though they don't offer the same thunderous bass
- The rear-ported design is a change from the previous entry-level line, Chora, where the port was front-mounted
Takeaway: The Focal Theva No.1 is a well-rounded bookshelf speaker that offers excellent audio performance and detail for its price, with a sleek design that fits into any space. It's a great option for those looking for a hifi experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Visit
Theva Center
Page
Product Page
A44H
699
/
Released
2022
ADAM Audio
The A44H offers a low-profile alternative to the A Series A7V while delivering similar performance characteristics. With a 19-inch width, the horizontally oriented A44H can sit on a standard rack shelf or be mounted above or below a display. The completely new design also enables the A44H to serve as a center speaker in immersive and 3D speaker configurations.
ADAM Audio is renowned for its innovative ART tweeters, which enhance the Air Motion Transformer concept by moving air four times faster than their folds for high-definition sound. Their monitors, especially the S Series, are favored by sound engineers for their accurate and transparent sound, advanced engineering, and reduced distortion, while the T Series offers affordable, high-performance studio monitors.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Compact, comfortable, and easy to place, with a lower profile.
- Delivers a powerful, dynamic, and precise sound that delivers an enjoyable experience.
- A rotatable tweeter allows for both horizontal and vertical placement, providing flexibility in different setups.
- On-board DSP-based room correction options, and integration with Sonarworks SoundID Reference for refined tuning.
- A wide sweet spot that is immersive and enjoyable to listen to.
Product Considerations
- The bass response may not be as present or suitable for music production with many sub-bass frequencies.
- The dial for input level adjustment is not stepped, which may make precise matching more difficult.
- Some reviewers suggest a sub may be needed depending on the material being worked with, to supplement the 4-inch woofers.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the ADAM Audio A7X model, the A44H offers a similar response curve.
Takeaway: The A44H monitors offer a unique form factor, versatile placement options, and a detailed sound, making them a great option for smaller spaces or immersive setups. The built-in DSP and integration with Sonarworks provide extensive room correction and customization capabilities.
Video review
Our take on the brand
ADAM Audio is renowned for its innovative ART tweeters, which enhance the Air Motion Transformer concept by moving air four times faster than their folds for high-definition sound. Their monitors, especially the S Series, are favored by sound engineers for their accurate and transparent sound, advanced engineering, and reduced distortion, while the T Series offers affordable, high-performance studio monitors.
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A44H
Page
Product Page
RP-504C II
699
/
Released
2022
Klipsch
Hear every word of the dialogue and lyrics with crystal-clear precision. A new, larger 90° x 90° silicone composite hybrid Tractrix® horn provides incredibly efficient transfer of high-frequency waves into the listening area to create a crisper, clearer sound.
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The RP-504C II is a solid center channel option, especially within a surround sound setup
- It is sonically better, more refined in the midrange and top end than previous generations, offering a balanced and open sound that can improve intelligibility
- The speaker provides good output levels with low distortion and compression, and is capable of handling power well
Product Considerations
- The RP-504C II has poor directivity in the horizontal region, which can lead to speech intelligibility issues for listeners sitting more than ±10° off-axis
- It has an elevated treble response, rising to about +3dB above average sensitivity levels above 2kHz, which may impact linearity
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs RP504C (Gen 1)—the Gen 2 has a different crossover point (650 and 1950 Hz vs 500 and 1500 Hz), refined mids and highs, and the Gen 1 has a gap that's more similar to the gap in the floor standings
- To Klipsch THX—RP-504C II sounds warmer and more natural
Takeaway: The Klipsch RP-504C II center channel speaker is a capable speaker that may increase the sonic intelligibility of a sound system. It could be a great choice for a home theater setup if clear dialogue and sound reproduction are priorities, and it has good output levels with low distortion and compression.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
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RP-504C II
Page
Product Page
Premier 600C
879
/
Released
Paradigm
Paradigm is a Canadian hifi speaker brand that designs and builds their products locally, using advanced materials like beryllium in their drivers and their proprietary PPA lens technology for better sound dispersion. Their speakers are favored by audiophiles seeking high-end sound at relatively lower prices, and they integrate Anthem Room Correction technology to optimize performance in modern open-concept homes with challenging acoustics.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Attractive style and are not overly large, making them easy to implement into various home theater or living room setups
- Magnetic grills make removing them easy and convenient, giving the speaker a cleaner and more premium look
- The Paradigm Premier 600C delivers dialogue with presence and strength, presenting the front stage smoothly
- The Paradigm Premier 200B and 600C offer a neutral sound signature without added coloration, providing detailed and smooth mids and highs
- The Paradigm Premier 200B and 600C feature technology trickled down from Paradigm's higher-end speakers
Product Considerations
- The center channel (600C) is pretty massive, requiring a lot of space
- The speaker grills are very thin and require careful handling to avoid damage
- Cracking sounds were experienced from the speaker cabinet when picking up the center channel and tower speakers, suggesting a potential issue with the laminate quality
- Low-frequency punch may be insufficient without a subwoofer
- The rubber feet on the Paradigm Premier 200B's kept falling off
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Paradigm Premier were slightly underwhelming compared to the 'wow factor' of the SVS Ultra Towers and Klipsch RF7's for music
Takeaway:
The Paradigm Premier speakers offer a blend of attractive design, good sound quality, and trickle-down technology from Paradigm's higher-end models, especially when paired with a subwoofer. If the Paradigm sound and aesthetic is appealing, the Premier series is worth considering for an immersive home theater experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Paradigm is a Canadian hifi speaker brand that designs and builds their products locally, using advanced materials like beryllium in their drivers and their proprietary PPA lens technology for better sound dispersion. Their speakers are favored by audiophiles seeking high-end sound at relatively lower prices, and they integrate Anthem Room Correction technology to optimize performance in modern open-concept homes with challenging acoustics.
Visit
Premier 600C
Page
Product Page
Dymension DM30
899
/
Released
2023
Definitive Technology
The Dymension™ DM30 flagship center channel speaker combines a five-driver array with an integrated subwoofer and bass radiators to deliver full-range sound with superior vocal clarity and maximum bass impact.
Definitive Technology is a hifi speaker brand known for its bipole design, which radiates sound from both front and back to create a more spacious soundstage. Their speakers feature unique technologies like Linear Response Waveguide for better off-axis listening and Intelligent Bass Control for precise bass adjustments while maintaining midrange balance, with many models incorporating built-in powered subwoofers.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Four 5.25-inch drivers, one tweeter, and an 8-inch subwoofer with two passive radiators provide a bigger sound.
- Clear dialogue is delivered, especially important for a center channel speaker.
- Timbre matches well with other Definitive Technology speakers, even older models.
- Neutral, accurate sound is delivered without being harsh.
- A deep and wide soundstage is produced.
Product Considerations
- The speaker cloth material may not perfectly match older Definitive Technology speakers, appearing as a slightly different shade of black.
- The base was not as good as the older model.
- The DM30 is a large speaker, requiring adequate space.
Takeaway: The Dymension DM30 is a great center channel speaker that provides clear dialogue and a wide soundstage, which enhances the home theater experience. It is a worthwhile addition that fits well with other Definitive Technology speakers and delivers excellent performance for movies and music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Definitive Technology is a hifi speaker brand known for its bipole design, which radiates sound from both front and back to create a more spacious soundstage. Their speakers feature unique technologies like Linear Response Waveguide for better off-axis listening and Intelligent Bass Control for precise bass adjustments while maintaining midrange balance, with many models incorporating built-in powered subwoofers.
Visit
Dymension DM30
Page
Product Page
Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- Great Arendal sound and build quality in a more compact size
- Smooth and detailed top end that's on the warmer side of neutral and not harsh
- Large and detailed soundstage, with locked-in center imaging and great dispersion
- Top-notch design and build quality, with stout, well-built, and inert cabinets
- Offers flexibility in placement, due to being able to be used in sealed or ported configuration
Product Considerations
- The 1961 bookshelf speakers have no real bass on their own, and need to be paired with a subwoofer
- Requires a decent receiver or amplifier to sound its best
- The included magnetic grills on the towers may detract from the otherwise stellar design
- The Atmos toppers might not sound as good as having actual speakers mounted above when using them for bouncing sound off the ceiling
- The center channel may be a weak point if used with tower speakers, because it is so small
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Polk R700: 1961 has quicker, more textural, and detail-oriented bass
- Vs Sonus Faber Lumina 3: The Lumina 3 has more top-end presence
- Vs Polk XT60: The Arendal has better build, construction, and style
Takeaway:
The 1961 speakers offer a compact design with excellent sound quality, making them a great choice for small to medium-sized rooms. Premium build quality and a detailed soundstage provide an immersive listening experience for both music and movies.
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
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