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
- Amazing build quality for the price point
- Neutral and accurate sound signature conveys the recording as is
- Excellent imaging capabilities and spatial performance create a holographic soundstage
- Compact size allows for placement in smaller spaces and flexibility in mounting options
- Top-notch design, stout cabinets, well-built, and inert
Product Considerations
- Lacks significant bass and requires a subwoofer for full-range sound
- May require a decent receiver or amplifier to sound its best due to lower than typical sensitivity
- The center channel is considered 'just okay', with dialogue clarity not as good as some competitors, the reviewer suggests using a 1961 bookshelf as center
- Grill design detracts from stellar aesthetics (tower)
- Some reviewers found they needed a higher volume to come alive, not as captivating at low volumes
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The 1961 has comparable sound from 100Hz up, but lacks bass compared to the Pro-Ject Speakerbox 5S II, which has fuller range
- The 1961 is better built and visually more interesting than the Revel M16, though the M16 has more bass
- The reviewer would prefer JBL 4309 for home theatre due to personal bias, but the performance gap is nearly non-existent
- The Arendal towers are more compact, making them more small-space-friendly and easier to incorporate into a wider range of living spaces than the Polk R700
- The Arendal's bass is quicker, more textural, and detail-oriented in comparison to the Polk R700
- The 1961 Bookshelf has better treble, and the ELAC DBR62 has a warmer midrange
Takeaway: The Arendal 1961 series are well-built and compact speakers that offer a neutral and accurate sound, making them a great choice for home theater or music listening when paired with a subwoofer. Their imaging and build quality make them worth considering for those who value quality and a clean sound.
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 Surround
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Manufacturer's notes
This speaker is for you if you need a surround partner for 1961 setup, or even 1723 Series if you have space constraints you need performance in tight spaces and short listening distances you desire immersion beyond typical Bookshelf speakers
Manufacturer Specs
- Dimensions (H/W/D): 28.7 x 16.3 x 18.5 cm (11.3 x 6.4 x 7.3 in)
- Weight: 6kg (13.2 lbs)
- Frequency response: 75Hz-20KHz (+/-3dB)
- Impedance: 4-ohm nominal
- Crossover frequency: 1500Hz
- Sensitivity: 84dB / 2.83v / 1m
- Tweeter: 28mm
- Woofer: 5.5"
- Recommended amplifier: Up to 180W RMS @ 4ohm
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Average Price
$500
Used Products
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Available (Scroll Down)
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.
Brand Page
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What if you spend a bit more?
Theva Surround
649
649
/
6
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
- Sweet and detailed audio performance with clear instrumental separation and expansive dimensionality
- Warm and full-bodied bass and midrange
- Clear yet 'mellow' treble, creating a pleasing sound signature
- Accurate sound that doesn't do much to color the recording, so listeners get a balanced presentation of the source content
- Good level of dynamic range for reasonably sized bookshelf speakers, and they can get louder than expected for their size/price class
Product Considerations
- The laid-back sound may occasionally obscure some definition
- The speakers run on the cooler side of things, never becoming too indulgent in any aspect and instead providing a sound that is accurate and slightly pulled back, but never muted or lifeless
- Asymmetry of the phase coherence of their vertical lobe can be a slight problem for anyone listening under the tweeter axis
- Does not feel as substantial as some other speakers in their price class
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Focal Vestia No. 1: Theva offers a lot of what makes the Vestia No. 1 great while saving money, but is not as immediately striking in detail or treble extension
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins 606 S3: Theva is more compact and easier to place, but doesn't look as premium
- Vs Polk Legend Series L100: Theva has a more laid-back sound profile, making it a better listen in most cases, while the L100 presents a more precise center image
Takeaway: The Theva No. 1 is a great speaker for enjoying detailed and smooth sound without harshness. It's a good option for different types of content, from music to movies, and is especially suited for smaller spaces.
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
Theva Surround
page
Product Page
Alteco C-1
600
600
/
3
Reviews
Dali
The DALI ALTECO C-1 is a true multipurpose speaker. It adds Atmos, DTS-X and Auro-3D height information to an existing surround setup, and is a discreet on-wall solution for a stereo installation.Dual Sound ModeThe dual sound mode offers flexible placement. Select 'UP' for soft, downward sound dispersion or 'DOWN' for close listening.Wood Fibre ConesOur low-loss drivers combine low-mass paper cones with wood fibre for an uneven surface that eliminates resonance and reveals every detail.Up-FiringWhen placed on top of front or rear speakers, the angular design is perfect for transmitting Dolby Atmos, DTS-X or Auro-3D surround sound height information.Soft Dome TweeterThe ultra lightweight, weaved fabric dome tweeter offers best-in-class resolution with extended frequency response, wide dispersion and low colouration.
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Designed to deliver delicate Atmos sounds and add height to the surround sound experience
- Brilliantly built and seem built to last
- Does an outstanding job in reproducing a cinematic feel
- They are full-bodied and an easy and engaging listen
- Can be used discreetly on your living room wall while providing an exceptional stereo listening experience when paired with a subwoofer
Product Considerations
- With the vinyl wrap, it looks a little bit like Ikea furniture, so it may not be the best option for a classy looking system
- Speaker terminals use a push fit spring clamp system for very thin wire, which can be annoying
- When used on top of floor standers, they do not sound as good as when wall-mounted
- Dolby Atmos content availability may be lacking
Takeaway: The Alteco C1 is a well-built speaker that adds a cinematic feel to a home theatre experience. It is a versatile speaker that can be used in different ways and is a good value for the price.
Video review
Our take on the brand
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Visit our
Alteco C-1
page
Product Page
SoundFrame 1 (On-wall)
686
686
/
2
Reviews
Monitor
Monitor Audio is an independently owned hifi brand that has earned multiple Editors Choice awards for their Silver Series speakers, which feature proprietary driver designs. Their speakers are distinguished by unique technologies like the MPD tweeter and C-CAM drivers, which provide exceptional clarity while resisting distortion and listener fatigue.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Smooth, spacious sound with good weight
- Excellent build and finish quality
- Discreet and stylish design, blending easily with room décor
- Slim cabinets make them easy to hang on the wall
- Driver arrangement ensures excellent imaging, even when speakers are mounted high
Product Considerations
- Midrange colouration can harm timing
- Bass is more limited compared to some rivals due to the sealed-box design
- Can become a little muddled with complex rhythms
- Without grilles, they sport a stark, industrial look
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- When compared to rivals such as PMC's Wafer 2, the SoundFrames have the most limited bass
- SoundFrames are better than the KEF T205 system
Takeaway: The Monitor Audio SoundFrame is a stylish and innovative speaker system that delivers impressive sound quality despite its slim design. It's a great option for those who want a system that blends seamlessly with their décor without compromising on performance.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Monitor Audio is an independently owned hifi brand that has earned multiple Editors Choice awards for their Silver Series speakers, which feature proprietary driver designs. Their speakers are distinguished by unique technologies like the MPD tweeter and C-CAM drivers, which provide exceptional clarity while resisting distortion and listener fatigue.
Visit our
SoundFrame 1 (On-wall)
page
Product Page
D95
790
790
/
2
Reviews
M&K Sound
M&K Sound, manufacturer of the finest loudspeakers and subwoofers and whose products are "The Choice of Professionals", has introduced the new discreet and design-conscious D Series of loudspeakers, comprising the D85 and D95 models. Optimized for placement on walls, on stands, inside bookshelves or flanking flat-panel TV´s.
The D95 boasts 91 dB of sensitivity, producing exceptional dynamics from a tiny enclosure. With a slim depth profile of 3.74 inches and front fascia only measuring a compact 11.81 (H) x 9.45 (W) inches, the larger of the two models will remain inconspicuous on a living room or kitchen wall.
Housing a 6.5-inch polypropylene cone woofer with a 90 Hz – 20 kHz frequency response, the D95 can produce a rich and fully-rounded middle- and low-end response. The D95 and D85 incorporate a second order, phase-focused crossover frequency of 1.6 kHz supporting a smooth and imperceptible transition between tweeter and woofer.
Both models can deliver extraordinary low-end detail independently, but there is always an option to pair the loudspeakers with any of M&K Sound's compact V+ Series of powerful and articulate subwoofers
M&K Sound invented the world's first subwoofer in 1973 and is widely used in Hollywood studios for mixing and mastering film soundtracks. Their push-pull subwoofer design cancels out harmonic distortion, and their speakers deliver professional studio monitor neutrality, making them a top choice for high-end audio production.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Engaging, fast, and accurate performance
- Superbly made with good build and finish commensurate with the asking price
- Genuinely flexible in terms of positioning, especially for wall mounting due to its slim profile
- Impressive detail retrieval combined with a crisp and dynamic presentation
Product Considerations
- Limited bass extension, likely requiring a subwoofer for most applications
- Poor speaker terminals that won't happily accept 4mm plugs
- Not inexpensive
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Spendor A1 outperforms the D95 on a stand or shelf, but the D95 has the edge when wall-mounted
- D95 differs from ATC HTS series, since there is no center speaker version
Takeaway: The D95 is a great option for spaces where floorspace is limited, delivering a sparkling performance from an easy-to-place enclosure. It's a well-made, versatile speaker that shines when wall-mounted.
Video review
Our take on the brand
M&K Sound invented the world's first subwoofer in 1973 and is widely used in Hollywood studios for mixing and mastering film soundtracks. Their push-pull subwoofer design cancels out harmonic distortion, and their speakers deliver professional studio monitor neutrality, making them a top choice for high-end audio production.
Visit our
D95
page
Product Page
What else competes at this price?
Q4 Meta
499
/
Released
2024
KEF
The slender and sleek Q4 Meta is a highly versatile on-wall speaker that can be used as left, centre, and right (LCR) speaker, or as a surround speaker. Featuring a 5.25" 12th generation Uni-Q driver array with MAT™, the HiFi speaker delivers an expansive, immersive soundscape without taking up valuable floor space.
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
- The reviewer liked the Q4 so much that they bought two more
- The reviewer was impressed with the Q4s
- Rated down to 42 Hertz in-room response, the port provides a fuller bodied sound
- It can be used as a LCR (left, center, right) speaker, making it versatile for different channels
- The driver is very much the same as in the KEF R11s as well, promising timbre matching will be no problem
Product Considerations
- The reviewer wishes the port was underneath, so it was more hidden when hanging it vertically
- The reviewer wishes KEF would make a custom grill to match the R11s
Takeaway: The Q4 sounds really good and is impressive as a center channel, performing bigger than it looks. Its ability to be mounted and act as different channels allows it to be a very versatile piece of equipment.
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.
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Q4 Meta
Page
Product Page
Reserve R900
385
/
Released
2021
Polk
Add R900 height modules to access an IMAX-enhanced world of multidimensional sound. Its unique design means that it can sit atop other Reserve Series speakers or be mounted to the wall, unlocking the Dolby Atmos and DTS:X capabilities of the Reserve Series.
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
- Delivers dynamic and immersive sound at a budget-friendly price
- Shares advanced drivers with Polk's flagship Legend series
- Impressive build quality for the price
- Crisp, near full-range performance
Product Considerations
- Revealing sound can be slightly bright with some sources
- Speaker cabinets lack the lavish construction and wood-veneer finishes found in the Legend series
Takeaway: The Reserve series brings the advanced tech of Polk's high-end Legend series to a more affordable price point, offering great sound and build quality. This makes it a worthwhile option for listeners seeking a premium experience.
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
Reserve R900
Page
Product Page
Ambient Line 11 F
349
/
Released
Heco
Schon das kleinste Modell der Ambient-Baureihe bietet alle typischen Heco-Qualitäten. Mit Fluktus-Hochtöner und einem Tiefmitteltöner mit Kraftpapier hat sie klanglich alle Gene der Familie und mit gerade mal 30 cm Gehäusehöhe verwandelt sie schnell und unauffällig jeden Raum in eine akustische Oase.
Heco is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique Fluktus tweeter design that combines multiple horns in a single structure for even sound dispersion across frequencies. Their speakers use German-made wool fibers in Kraft paper cones and feature a distinctive polished resin cabinet design in their Aurora series, blending vintage-inspired technologies with modern advancements while remaining easy to drive with modest amplifiers.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Designed to be mounted on a wall, saving space
- Simple mounting system and easy speaker wire attachment
- All models use the same speaker components, allowing for mixing and matching within a home theater setup
- Features the Fluctus tweeter for even response across all frequencies and open, effortless sound
- Uses a Kraft paper cone for mid-range and woofer components, made from renewable forests and wool fibers
Product Considerations
- The Ambient 11F does not go as low in the bass as the larger Ambient models
Takeaway: The HEIKO Ambient Series offers great sound without taking up floor space and can be easily integrated into a home theater system or used in various other applications. The consistent speaker components and design make them a versatile and visually appealing choice.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Heco is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique Fluktus tweeter design that combines multiple horns in a single structure for even sound dispersion across frequencies. Their speakers use German-made wool fibers in Kraft paper cones and feature a distinctive polished resin cabinet design in their Aurora series, blending vintage-inspired technologies with modern advancements while remaining easy to drive with modest amplifiers.
Visit
Ambient Line 11 F
Page
Product Page
Silver AMS 7G
404
/
Released
2021
Monitor
The Silver AMS 7G with Dolby Atmos® puts you right inside the film or the song, creating a 3D soundscape with unprecedented realism. With specially created content, there's no limit to the detail that's possible.
Monitor Audio is an independently owned hifi brand that has earned multiple Editors Choice awards for their Silver Series speakers, which feature proprietary driver designs. Their speakers are distinguished by unique technologies like the MPD tweeter and C-CAM drivers, which provide exceptional clarity while resisting distortion and listener fatigue.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent performance, superb build quality, and high value
- The fit and finish are beyond reproach for the price level
- Features new drivers, including a revised C-CAM tweeter and RST II mid/bass drivers, contributing to improved sound quality and lower distortion
- The design language is crisp and clean, with a timeless quality
Product Considerations
- If you prefer curved cabinets, you'll have to look elsewhere
- The surround speakers and height effects speakers are only available in gloss black or satin white, potentially limiting aesthetic choices for some users
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Monitor Audio offers real-wood veneers, while ELAC's Uni-Fi Reference and Bowers & Wilkins' 600 Series only offer fake wood-effect vinyl wraps
- Another speaker series in this price range that looks as good is Wharfedale's Evo4
Takeaway: The Silver Series 7G offers a combination of excellent performance, build quality, and value. They might be worth your time if you are looking for new speakers.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Monitor Audio is an independently owned hifi brand that has earned multiple Editors Choice awards for their Silver Series speakers, which feature proprietary driver designs. Their speakers are distinguished by unique technologies like the MPD tweeter and C-CAM drivers, which provide exceptional clarity while resisting distortion and listener fatigue.
Visit
Silver AMS 7G
Page
Product Page
A'diva Habitat
472
/
Released
2021
Gallo Acoustics
HABITAT introduces some much needed style into the utilitarian outdoor speaker category, the all-stainless steel, IP66 rated Habitat range is derived from the timeless 4" and 5" spherical forms of our classic Micro and A'Diva speakers.
Gallo Acoustics is known for its spherical speaker design that eliminates resonance and internal diffraction, along with their patented S2 fill technology that statically charges to enhance low frequencies from small speakers. Their speakers use a proprietary flat speaker cone and unique CDT3 tweeter with 300-degree dispersion, while their modular design and viscoelastic speaker bases set them apart from traditional speaker manufacturers.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Very clear, very crisp sound
- Special filling inside called branded K2 helps produce a fuller, deeper sound from such a tiny speaker
- Seamless metal casing
- Can use banana plugs to connect speaker cable, or push naked speaker wire into the connections and tighten
Product Considerations
- Frequency response ranges from 76Hz down to about 20kHz
- Comes with a little o-ring for placing on a shelf, ensuring the speaker sits and won't roll away
Takeaway: The A'diva speakers are easy to set up and install into a home system, and the sound quality is good and fantastic. The speakers give a very clear, very crisp sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Gallo Acoustics is known for its spherical speaker design that eliminates resonance and internal diffraction, along with their patented S2 fill technology that statically charges to enhance low frequencies from small speakers. Their speakers use a proprietary flat speaker cone and unique CDT3 tweeter with 300-degree dispersion, while their modular design and viscoelastic speaker bases set them apart from traditional speaker manufacturers.
Visit
A'diva Habitat
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
- Amazing build quality for the price point
- Neutral and accurate sound signature conveys the recording as is
- Excellent imaging capabilities and spatial performance create a holographic soundstage
- Compact size allows for placement in smaller spaces and flexibility in mounting options
- Top-notch design, stout cabinets, well-built, and inert
Product Considerations
- Lacks significant bass and requires a subwoofer for full-range sound
- May require a decent receiver or amplifier to sound its best due to lower than typical sensitivity
- The center channel is considered 'just okay', with dialogue clarity not as good as some competitors, the reviewer suggests using a 1961 bookshelf as center
- Grill design detracts from stellar aesthetics (tower)
- Some reviewers found they needed a higher volume to come alive, not as captivating at low volumes
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The 1961 has comparable sound from 100Hz up, but lacks bass compared to the Pro-Ject Speakerbox 5S II, which has fuller range
- The 1961 is better built and visually more interesting than the Revel M16, though the M16 has more bass
- The reviewer would prefer JBL 4309 for home theatre due to personal bias, but the performance gap is nearly non-existent
- The Arendal towers are more compact, making them more small-space-friendly and easier to incorporate into a wider range of living spaces than the Polk R700
- The Arendal's bass is quicker, more textural, and detail-oriented in comparison to the Polk R700
- The 1961 Bookshelf has better treble, and the ELAC DBR62 has a warmer midrange
Takeaway: The Arendal 1961 series are well-built and compact speakers that offer a neutral and accurate sound, making them a great choice for home theater or music listening when paired with a subwoofer. Their imaging and build quality make them worth considering for those who value quality and a clean sound.
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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