The Ø Audio Frig 2: A High-End Speaker Redefining Warmth and MusicalityThis review delves into the Ø Audio Frig 2, a three-way floor-standing speaker challenging conventional audio design. Featuring unique driver technology from CS Norway and a distinctive tapered cabinet, the Frig 2 boasts impressive specifications, including a high sensitivity of 90dB and an 8-ohm impedance (dropping to 3.8 ohms). Its unconventional rear-wave venting system on the midrange driver is a key component of its unique sonic character. This review explores its performance across various musical genres, comparing it to a similarly priced competitor, the Dynaudio Contour Legacy, to highlight its strengths and distinct sonic signature.We will examine the Frig 2's captivating tonal warmth, impressive dynamic range, and the overall listening experience it provides. The review investigates how its design choices contribute to its rich, full-bodied sound, emphasizing its ability to deliver both powerful output and delicate details without sacrificing musicality. Finally, we consider whether its $13,900 price tag justifies its performance and unique approach to high-fidelity audio reproduction, ultimately assessing its suitability for discerning audiophiles.
Pros And Cons
- Three-way floor-standing speaker
- Unique venting system for mid-range rear wave
- High sensitivity (90dB)
- Dynamic range allows for quiet listening
- Full, warm tonality
- Excellent bass response down to 29 Hz
- High-quality build and finish
- Open and spacious sound
- Not a neutral-sounding speaker
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Ø Audio Frig 2: Design and Specifications
The Ø Audio Frig 2 is a three-way floor-standing speaker, boasting a unique design and impressive specifications. Its drivers, crafted by CS in Norway, are proprietary and built for exceptional performance. The tweeter is a carbon fiber dome set within a wave guide, promising clear and detailed high frequencies.
The mid-range driver is a 7-inch paper cone with titanium former, featuring an unusual rear-wave venting system. This design contributes to the speaker's open and spacious sound, somewhat resembling an open baffle setup. The 8-inch woofer, also a paper cone with a titanium former, provides deep and controlled bass extension.
The speaker's cabinet is tapered and canted back, providing a distinctive aesthetic. It comes in four finishes and features cast aluminum feet for stability. The crossover design is quite sophisticated, as shown in a picture provided by Ø Audio, and the impedance is rated at 8 ohms, although it drops to 3.8 ohms. The sensitivity is a high 90dB
Listening Impressions and Comparisons
The Ø Audio Frig 2 offers a remarkably warm and natural tonality. Vocals are full and at ease, while acoustic instruments possess a realistic timbre. This tonal character distinguishes it from many neutral-sounding speakers. The speaker exhibits exceptional dynamic range, performing beautifully at both quiet and loud listening levels.
A comparison with the Dynaudio Contour Legacy (similarly priced) revealed significant sonic differences. The Dynaudio excels in transparency and detail, delivering a forward soundstage. In contrast, the Frig 2 presents a more laid-back, distant soundstage, but with a richer, fuller midrange and more palpable bass.
Various musical genres were tested, including Stevie Wonder's soulful vocals, Creedence Clearwater Revival's classic rock, and Neil Young's more nuanced acoustic tracks. The Frig 2 consistently impressed with its ability to reveal subtle nuances and details within the recordings while maintaining a pleasing tonal balance across the frequency spectrum.
Unique Midrange Design and Sound Signature
The Frig 2's unique midrange design, with its rear-wave venting system, significantly contributes to its overall sound. This semi-dipole configuration creates a sense of openness and spaciousness not typically found in sealed or ported speakers. This is likely a major factor in the speaker’s exceptionally natural tonal balance.
The speaker is not simply reproducing sound; it adds to it by blending front and rear waves in a way that creates this warm, inviting tonality. The result is a sound that is both powerful and detailed but in a way that is not harsh or analytical. It is more about the musicality of the presentation rather than any objective correctness.
Conclusion: A Speaker with Character
The Ø Audio Frig 2 is a truly special speaker. Its unusual design choices, particularly the midrange venting, lead to a unique and captivating sound signature. While not the most transparent or detailed speaker, it excels in tonal warmth, body, and dynamic range. It manages to balance powerful output with delicate details, which results in an overall pleasing listening experience.
The Frig 2’s character and musicality set it apart from many high-end competitors. While the Dynaudio Contour Legacy offers superior transparency and detail, the Ø Audio speaker delivers a more involving, emotionally resonant experience. The Frig 2 is a compelling choice for listeners who value a natural, warm, and dynamically expressive sound presentation. At the price of $13,900 a pair, it is a significant investment, but for the right listener, one that will be richly rewarded.