Choosing between the Arendal 1528 bookshelf and 1723 THX tower speakers is a tough call for audiophiles. Both models offer exceptional sound quality built upon high-density fiberboard cabinets and premium components, exceeding expectations in their respective classes. This in-depth comparison dives into the nuanced differences between these two high-performance speakers, examining their construction, crossover designs, driver technology, and bass response. We'll explore the advantages and disadvantages of each, considering factors like sensitivity, power requirements, and overall value proposition.Ultimately, this review aims to help you determine which Arendal speaker reigns supreme—the powerful 1723 THX towers or the meticulously crafted 1528 bookshelf speakers. We'll analyze the finer points of their designs, weigh their performance characteristics, and consider practical implications like room size and amplifier requirements to guide you toward the perfect choice for your listening environment and preferences. Whether you prioritize power and flexibility or pinpoint accuracy and immersive detail, this comparison will illuminate the path to superior sound.
Pros And Cons
- Higher quality build with thicker (2-inch) HDF panels compared to the 1723 towers.
- Nicer, higher-quality binding posts.
- Superior crossover components using higher-quality materials (polypropylene capacitors, wirewound resistors, air coil inductors).
- Uses a rare lithium magnesium tweeter for a sweeter, more nuanced and detailed sound.
- Includes acoustic grills in front of the mid-range driver and tweeter for improved off-axis response.
- Features an elliptical waveguide for superior sound design, offering better imaging and phase coherency.
- Wider and deeper soundstage compared to the 1723 towers with better focused imaging.
- Great mid-range driver comparable to those found in much more expensive speakers.
- More bass 'oomph' and bodily sensation.
- Requires more power than the 1723 towers to achieve the same volume, especially in larger rooms.
- Only has one single port for bass adjustment, offering less flexibility in room tuning.
- Requires additional purchase of speaker stands, increasing the overall cost beyond the initial $4,500 price point.
- Better base flexibility due to three rear ports for tuning to different room acoustics.
- More sensitive, requiring less power to achieve higher volume and fill larger rooms.
- Narrower and more constricted soundstage compared to the 1528 bookshelf speakers.
- Uses a common slanted cabinet design for time alignment.
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Build Quality and Materials
Both the Arendal 1528 bookshelf and 1723 THX tower speakers boast high-density fiberboard (HDF) cabinets, a significant upgrade from the MDF commonly found in budget speakers. This choice reflects a commitment to superior sound quality and durability. The 1528, however, takes it a step further with incredibly thick 2-inch HDF panels, surpassing the 1 to 1.5-inch panels of the 1723. This results in a substantial weight difference, with the 1528s weighing in at a hefty 66 lbs each.
The robust construction of both models minimizes cabinet resonance, ensuring a clean and accurate sound reproduction. Both speakers also feature high-quality, rhodium-plated copper binding posts, but the 1528's binding posts are slightly more refined, reflecting its position in a higher-end series.
Crossover Components and Design
The 1528 bookshelf speakers utilize superior crossover components, including polypropylene capacitors, wirewound resistors, and air coil inductors, outperforming the 1723 THX speakers. These higher-quality components contribute to a more refined and detailed sound signature. Further enhancing the 1528's design, the absence of steel in the magnet materials and the optimized signal path contribute to a purer sound reproduction.
A significant design difference lies in their time alignment technology. The 1723 THX speakers employ a common slanted cabinet design for time alignment. In contrast, the 1528 bookshelf speakers feature a more complex curved front baffle—a meticulously crafted design involving thin layers of HDF that are curved, glued, compressed, and refined to achieve the precise time alignment of the drivers.
Drivers and Sound Performance
The 1723 THX towers feature a softdome tweeter, while the 1528 bookshelf speakers utilize a rarer lithium magnesium tweeter. This unique tweeter offers exceptional delicacy, nuance, and detail in the high frequencies, resulting in a smoother, less fatiguing listening experience. Despite both speakers having great linearity, the 1528's tweeter provides a noticeably quieter noise floor and more subtle detail.
The 1528's 5-inch mid-range driver, situated behind an acoustic grill, is another standout feature. This driver, featuring a large magnet, delivers exceptional accuracy and clarity comparable to those found in much more expensive monitors. Its exceptional quality is further emphasized by the machined aluminum fascia needed to support its substantial weight.
Bass Response and Power Handling
Both the 1723 and 1528 speakers produce similar bass extension and quantity; however, the 1528 delivers a more impactful and visceral bass experience. This difference is attributed to the 1528's 8-inch woofer offering higher excursion capabilities, resulting in a more powerful and physical bass response.
The 1723 THX towers have a slight advantage in bass flexibility due to their three rear-ported design, allowing for adjustments to optimize bass response within different listening environments. The 1528's single port design, while still offering excellent bass, lacks the same level of room tuning flexibility. However, the single port allows for closer placement to walls.
Power Requirements and Value
Despite their exceptional sound quality, the 1723 THX towers demonstrate higher sensitivity, requiring less power to fill a room compared to the 1528 bookshelf speakers. This makes them a more versatile option in larger listening spaces. The 1528 bookshelf speakers, while still capable of achieving high volumes, will demand more power from the amplifier, especially in larger rooms.
Both speakers provide exceptional value, but the 1528's larger size and the requirement for separate stands—adding significantly to the overall cost—slightly diminishes its value proposition compared to the 1723. The total cost quickly exceeds the initial $4,500 price tag for both speakers and stands.
Conclusion: The Verdict
Both the Arendal 1723 THX Tower and 1528 bookshelf speakers deliver exceptional sound quality, boasting natural and detailed audio reproduction. However, the 1528 bookshelf speakers edge out the competition with its superior clarity, a wider and deeper soundstage, more focused imaging, and remarkably impactful bass. The added cost of stands reduces the overall value of the 1528.
Ultimately, the choice depends on individual needs and preferences. The 1723 THX Towers are a great option for larger rooms and offer greater power handling flexibility, while the 1528 excels in smaller to medium-sized spaces and provides a more refined and immersive sound experience.