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
- Excellent build quality and finish.
- Accurate and neutral sound.
- Exceptional imaging and soundstage.
- Well suited as main left and right speakers, and as satellite speakers.
- Sealed design makes subwoofer integration seamless and easy.
Product Considerations
- Significant bass is lacking and a subwoofer is required for full-range sound.
- Lower than typical sensitivity rating requires an amplifier or receiver with sufficient power to perform at its best.
- If using the surround version, the inability to disconnect the side drivers limits the user to dipole use only.
- The atmos toppers are too big to be placed on top of the bookshelves, therefore requiring mounting on the ceiling.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The bookshelf and tower are identical from the mid-range on up, but different in the bass section, the tower has more prominence in the mid-bass, whereas both roll off below 50Hz.
- The 1961 bookshelf provides better build quality with fit and finish and a better sense of soundstage depth compared to the Focal Cora 806, but the 806 has more detail retrieval.
- The 1961 excels in the treble range and finish quality compared to the ELAC DBR62, though the ELAC has a warmer, more luscious mid-range.
- While more compact, the 1961 system requires an added subwoofer to match the Polk R700's full-range capabilities.
- The 1961 offers similar performance at a lower cost and is objectively better overall as a speaker, though the Sonus Faber Lumina 3 has a superior finish.
Takeaway: The Arendal 1961 is a compact, well-built speaker that delivers exceptional sound quality, especially when paired with a subwoofer. Its neutral sound signature and immersive soundstage make it a great choice for those seeking high-performance audio in a smaller form factor.
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 Monitor
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Manufacturer's notes
This speaker is for you if you have a room up to 25m² and listen from up to 3.5m away you need universal speaker for stereo, home-cinema, or studio use you looking for a perfect speaker to pair with a subwoofer
Manufacturer Specs
- Dimensions (H/W/D): 42.5 x 16.3 x 15 cm (16.6 x 6.4 x 5.9 in)
- Weight: 7.25 kg (16 lbs)
- Frequency response: 73Hz-20KHz (+/-3dB)
- Impedance: 4-ohm nominal
- Crossover frequency: 1500Hz
- Sensitivity: 87dB / 2.83v / 1m
- Tweeter: 28mm
- Woofer: 2 x 5.5"
- Recommended amplifier: Up to 250W RMS @ 4ohm
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Average Price
$500
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Brand Popularity
38
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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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Arendal Sound
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What if you spend a bit more?
Q3 Meta
799
799
/
5
Reviews
KEF
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Wide soundstage and radiation pattern, both horizontally and vertically, contribute to an immersive listening experience
- Good mid-bass punch, with an elevated bump around 120Hz that gives the perception of more impact
- Neutral tonal balance, with a well-balanced sound that allows the music to shine
- Excellent dispersion characteristics make them suitable for modern spaces where acoustic treatments are limited
- Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) absorbs unwanted sound behind the tweeter for clearer sound
Product Considerations
- Compression and strain in the upper midrange can occur at high output levels (above 90dB at 10 feet)
- Some cabinet resonance exists
- Some detail, clarity, or attack is lacking from the speaker
- Not ideal for high output
- A slight dip around 1-2kHz exists that some people may not like
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the KEF Q350, the Q3 Meta has more body and weight in the bass regions, but the Q350 is slightly better and more lively sounding in the upper frequencies
- Compared to the Polk Audio Reserve R200, the Q3 Meta is more neutral
- Compared to the Paradigm Premier 100B, the Q3 Meta dispersion characteristics are better, so they do not need a sub
- Compared to the PSB Imagine B50, the B50 kept its composure better at much louder listening levels, and its tonal balance seemed somehow even more neutral
Takeaway: The KEF Q3 Meta is an enjoyable speaker with a wide soundstage and neutral sound that makes the music sound good. It's a great pick for aesthetics if one does not listen at dangerous sound levels.
Video review
Our take on the brand
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Visit our
Q3 Meta
page
Product Page
Kin One
524
524
/
4
Reviews
KIN By Totem
Known for its use of handmade Torrent drivers, Kin by Totem eliminates crossover distortions to deliver clean, unaltered audio, coupled with its signature micro-size speakers that defy traditional performance limitations. The brand’s achievements include influencing compact speaker trends while maintaining premium audio quality.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Available in multiple vibrant colors, breaking the monotony of typical speaker designs
- Produces a surprisingly big and wide sound despite their compact size
- The MHEX woofer reacts very fast and sounds like paper
- Soundstage stretches from speaker to speaker
Product Considerations
- Sound profile shows a dip in mid-range and roll-off in high frequencies, potentially requiring EQ adjustments
- High frequencies roll off around 8k or so
- Limited bass response, which may need a subwoofer for rock music or larger rooms
- Not linear frequency response, which may impact sound clarity
- Overall sensitivity is about 83.4 dB, which is below manufacturer's specs
Takeaway: The KIN ONE speakers are small but can create a big sound with multiple color options. Though they may benefit from EQ and a sub, they can be a good option for smaller rooms.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Known for its use of handmade Torrent drivers, Kin by Totem eliminates crossover distortions to deliver clean, unaltered audio, coupled with its signature micro-size speakers that defy traditional performance limitations. The brand’s achievements include influencing compact speaker trends while maintaining premium audio quality.
Visit our
Kin One
page
Product Page
M3 (Computer Speakers)
898
898
/
3
Reviews
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Axiom
So, you upgraded to a gorgeous 1920 x 1080 display but you’re still using your computer’s built-in speakers? Or worse yet, the speakers in the monitor? You might as well put a v4 in a Lamborghini. High-end computer performance demands high-power output speakers, and the Axiom M3 computer speakers deliver – in spades! You’ll get output that’s up to 1400% more than common computer speakers on the market today.
Axiom Audio manufactures its own drivers and features unique design elements like rear-firing drivers with DSP processing, die-cast metal faceplates that act as heatsinks, and Vortex ports to reduce air turbulence. Their speakers, including the LFR1100 and M100 v4, are known for uncommon features at their price points, such as seven drivers per speaker for greater linearity and the ability to reach exceptionally low frequencies of 15Hz in their subwoofers.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The tapered cabinet design eliminates internal resonance, making it lightweight and rigid
- It uses a custom-designed Vortex port that provides more volume in less space
- A unique design allows the woofer to roll off naturally at 2.2kHz, eliminating the need for a low-cost crossover component that could degrade audio signal quality
- Offers a neutral and realistic midrange, providing a natural and realistic sound
- Clarity and resolution, particularly in the midrange area, is well-received
Product Considerations
- Minute gaps were found in the seams of the custom vinyl finish under scrutiny
- Since it is a rear port, some room will need to be left for the speaker to breathe
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the KEF Q1, the M3 had clearer differentiation and separation of choir and orchestra, and French horns had much more balance and presence
Takeaway: The Axiom M3 is a well-designed speaker that offers excellent value and performs above expectations. It could be a great choice for anyone wanting a clean, neutral sound with great dynamics for casual listening.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Axiom Audio manufactures its own drivers and features unique design elements like rear-firing drivers with DSP processing, die-cast metal faceplates that act as heatsinks, and Vortex ports to reduce air turbulence. Their speakers, including the LFR1100 and M100 v4, are known for uncommon features at their price points, such as seven drivers per speaker for greater linearity and the ability to reach exceptionally low frequencies of 15Hz in their subwoofers.
Visit our
M3 (Computer Speakers)
page
Product Page
Symbol X 160
573
573
/
3
Reviews
Magnat
Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Durable build with corrosion-resistant materials and IPX5 water resistance rating makes it suitable for outdoor use in various weather conditions
- Flexible placement since it can be mounted horizontally or vertically
- Good separation of lows, mids, and highs with bright highs
- Requires an amplifier to function
- White color option is prone to collecting dust when used outdoors, black is recommended for outdoor use
- Proper wire management is crucial for a clean installation
Product Considerations
- Does not have the low-end bass of a dedicated subwoofer
Takeaway: The Magnet Symbol X is a durable and versatile speaker suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, especially for those looking for a permanent audio solution with a clean setup. With a proper amplifier, clear and loud sound can be enjoyed in any space.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
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Symbol X 160
page
Product Page
What else competes at this price?
MilleniaOne 1.0
349
/
Released
Paradigm
The MilleniaOne 1.0 is a 2-driver, 2-way vented die-cast aluminum enclosure speaker with integrated baffle and chassis. Low-diffraction grilles maximize imaging and ensure smooth dispersion.
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
- High-quality aluminum drivers, including a 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter and a 4-inch aluminum cone mid-bass driver
- Sturdily built with a die-cast aluminum enclosure, contributing to rigidity and reducing internal standing waves
- Small size and aesthetically pleasing, designed to fit into modern lifestyles
- Seamless integration, providing cohesive and organized surround sound
Product Considerations
- Spring-loaded speaker terminals only accept bare wire of relatively light gauges, and they do not accommodate spades or banana plugs
- Bass may be lacking without the addition of a subwoofer
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Paradigm Atom Monitors: The MilleniaOne is made with better-quality parts that are more expensive to produce, and sounds better in terms of mids and highs, though the Atoms can get louder
- Vs Paradigm Reference Signature S6 v.3: The Signature system goes deeper and plays noticeably louder, but the Millenia system plays plenty loud and deep for almost anyone in a small to mid-size room
Takeaway: The Paradigm MilleniaOne is a well-built and aesthetically pleasing speaker system that delivers high-quality sound and seamless integration for an immersive audio experience. If great sound in a smaller size is desired and one is willing to pay a bit more, it is worth considering.
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.
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MilleniaOne 1.0
Page
Product Page
Monitor XT15
199
/
Released
2021
Polk
Compact and affordable, Monitor XT15 maximizes the enjoyment of music, gaming, and movies with energetic, high-resolution sound with effortless bass. Use the MXT15 for front left and right channels or as side or surround speakers. It's also wall-mountable allowing for flexible placement.
Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Clear, detailed sound with good clarity
- Nice bass presence for its size
- Nice looking speaker with and without the grill
- Good value for the price, setting a new bar for budget speakers
- Can handle some power, suitable for small to medium rooms
Product Considerations
- Treble can be slightly harsh and fatiguing at higher volumes after prolonged listening
- Bass response is punchy rather than deep
- May sound a touch boomy if placed too close to the wall
- Sensitivity is a little on the low side, requiring more power
- Lacks wall-mounting capability
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Cambridge Audio S30, the XT15 has better soundstage, imaging, and punchier bass, but S30 has a smoother midrange and top end
- Vs Jamo S801, the XT15 has far better bass response
Takeaway: The Polk Monitor XT15 is a great budget speaker that offers clear sound and good bass for its size, making it a solid choice for a first hifi system or for music listening. It's hard to beat for the price, and it provides an excellent performance-to-price ratio.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
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Monitor XT15
Page
Product Page
KIN One
449
/
Released
2024
Totem
The NEW KIN ONE was created to provide a simple yet remarkable audio solution. When paired with the KIN AMP it will ensure a musical, lifelike performance. The KIN ONE doesn't follow in the steps of its predecessor as it's blazing ahead of virtually every small speaker made today.
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
- Available in multiple vibrant colors, breaking the monotony of typical speaker designs
- Despite their compact size, the speakers produce a surprisingly big sound
- The Kin Amp is quite versatile, with a capable phono stage and a generous range of inputs
- Reproduces intense strikes on drums and other percussion instruments very adeptly with absolutely no slop
Product Considerations
- The speaker's sound profile shows a dip in the mid-range and roll-off in high frequencies, potentially requiring EQ adjustments
- Rated sensitivity is about 83.4 dB, which is below the manufacturer's spec of 89dB
- Kin One speakers need a subwoofer to deliver deep bass—especially in a big space
- The speaker's overall response is non-linear and it doesn't get very loud
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
Takeaway: The Kin One system is an attractive and capable compact sound system, known for its versatility and colorful design options. It's a good choice for smaller spaces where high-quality sound is desired, especially for acoustic music, jazz, and classical.
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
KIN One
Page
Product Page
Signature Elite ES15
299
/
Released
2021
Polk
Enjoy movies, music and gaming with high-resolution room-filling cinematic sound and effortless bass. Polk's high-performance, wall mountable ES15 compact bookshelf loudspeaker features a Dynamically Balanced acoustic array, precision crossovers and Power Port bass enhancing technology. Hi-Res Audio Certified and accessibly priced, Signature Elite ES15 fulfills the Polk promise of great sound for all.
Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Stylish design is easy on the eye, with modern styling and curves that add charm
- Fantastic build quality feels sturdy, easily competing with speakers double the price
- Clear and detailed sound, with impressive mid-range and high frequencies
- Balanced audio experience suited for various types of content like movies, music, and gaming
- Smooth, non-fatiguing sound works well in a variety of situations and genres
Product Considerations
- The built-in hanger system is a bad design and can negatively affect the sound
- Bass, while punchy, might not satisfy those seeking deep, earth-shattering lows, and a subwoofer may be desired
- Might not feel as sturdy as some other hifi speakers out there
- Not neutral sounding
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Emotiva B1s are a better value speaker for music with better treble, but the ES15 is a better all-rounder for TV and music
- The Q Acoustics 3020s are more neutral, while the ES15 has more lushness, a punchier low end, and smoother treble
- The ES15 offers more control over everything, while the XT20 has a more sparkly top end
Takeaway: The Polk Signature Elite ES15 is a well-built speaker that sounds great and enhances the listening experience for the price, making it a solid choice for a versatile home hifi system. It's easy to match with sources and is forgiving on poor audio masters, making it easy to live with on a daily basis.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
Visit
Signature Elite ES15
Page
Product Page
Symbol X 130
212
/
Released
Magnat
The Symbol X 130 delivers an extremely impressive performance despite its compact dimensions. A frequency response of 34 to 36,500 Hz and an efficiency of 90 dB can be clearly heard. With a housing measuring just 151 mm wide and 249 mm high, it will fit in anywhere, even on a packed table in an editing suite. It also cuts a fine figure on a shelf when used as a classic hi-fi speaker. Thanks to a load capacity of up to 200 watts, there´s no problem if the speaker is subjected to high levels for prolonged periods. And, like all Symbol speakers, it defies outdoor conditions and is able to withstand splash water without any issue.
Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Durable design with a plastic housing and corrosion-resistant front grill, built to withstand the elements with an IPX5 water-resistant rating
- Can be used both indoors and outdoors, offering versatility in placement
- Mounting accessories included, allowing for horizontal and vertical adjustments
- Clear sound quality, especially in the midrange and highs
- Some reviewers are reminded of studio monitor speakers, providing a flat frequency response suitable for accurate sound reproduction
- Requires an amplifier, which is not included
Product Considerations
- Lacks the low-end bass of a dedicated subwoofer
- Exposed speaker wires can be an issue if not properly hidden during installation
- White color option is prone to collecting dust when used outdoors
Takeaway: The Symbol X speakers are a durable and versatile option for creating a permanent audio setup in an outdoor space. With a good amplifier, they can provide clear and consistent sound for years to come.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
Visit
Symbol X 130
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
- Excellent build quality and finish.
- Accurate and neutral sound.
- Exceptional imaging and soundstage.
- Well suited as main left and right speakers, and as satellite speakers.
- Sealed design makes subwoofer integration seamless and easy.
Product Considerations
- Significant bass is lacking and a subwoofer is required for full-range sound.
- Lower than typical sensitivity rating requires an amplifier or receiver with sufficient power to perform at its best.
- If using the surround version, the inability to disconnect the side drivers limits the user to dipole use only.
- The atmos toppers are too big to be placed on top of the bookshelves, therefore requiring mounting on the ceiling.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The bookshelf and tower are identical from the mid-range on up, but different in the bass section, the tower has more prominence in the mid-bass, whereas both roll off below 50Hz.
- The 1961 bookshelf provides better build quality with fit and finish and a better sense of soundstage depth compared to the Focal Cora 806, but the 806 has more detail retrieval.
- The 1961 excels in the treble range and finish quality compared to the ELAC DBR62, though the ELAC has a warmer, more luscious mid-range.
- While more compact, the 1961 system requires an added subwoofer to match the Polk R700's full-range capabilities.
- The 1961 offers similar performance at a lower cost and is objectively better overall as a speaker, though the Sonus Faber Lumina 3 has a superior finish.
Takeaway: The Arendal 1961 is a compact, well-built speaker that delivers exceptional sound quality, especially when paired with a subwoofer. Its neutral sound signature and immersive soundstage make it a great choice for those seeking high-performance audio in a smaller form factor.
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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