Arx A1b monitor loudspeaker

The upgraded Arx A1b has improved bass and resolution. Like the original A1, the powerful new A1b features a planar magnetic tweeter and a high performance SplitGap woofer. The upgraded A1b is perfect for compact high-output systems.

The A1b is perhaps the best value in a high-tech, audiophile-style compact monitor loudspeaker today.


Insider Price: $299.00 pair

Arx A1b monitor loudspeaker

Improved with better bass and more resolution

3" wideband planar-magnetic tweeter

High-excursion SplitGap 135mm midwoofer with XBL2 technology

Precision electronic dividing network

Convertible bass reflex acoustic alignment

Available port plug adds setup and use options

High power handling

Simulated black ash PVC finish

Includes black fabric grille

The Arx A1b is an upgraded, performance-oriented stand monitor that resets the standard for affordable speakers in this class. The A1b's advanced technology creates a tremendous three-dimensional soundfield not thought possible for such a modest cost.

"The best speaker for the money out there...exceptional...these speakers are better the competition at even 2x the price." -PL

"...simply awesome...nothing compares to the technology and sound..." -AP

"...very transparent--they disappear in the background and you will be immersed in the sound." -BG

"I honestly couldn't be happier with this purchase. I'm stunned." -JE

"...absolutely the most amazing pair of $300 speakers I have ever come across." -CG

"I cannot overstate how much I enjoy listening to these speakers. The sound stage is well-detailed, realistic and has awesome depth..." -ZS

"Now I see what everybody else was talking about." -LM

"It is an absolute pleasure to experience such high quality product with incredible value. I am absolutely in love with Arx A1b..." -JH

What's special about Arx?

The A1b's second generation Arx flat-panel "planar magnetic" tweeter replaces conventional domes and cones with a nearly weightless thermoplastic "leaf" driven by an intense magnetic field that saturates its surface. The result is a lightening-quick response, high linearity, and surprisingly neutral and extended high frequencies. High frequencies from the Arx A1b take on an immaterial quality and simply do not sound like those from an economy loudspeaker.

The Arx A1b loudspeaker also guarantees powerful, low distortion bass performance - nearly 10Hz lower than the original A1. Arx "SplitGap" bass technology drives the speaker to both higher output and lower distortion. Arx licenses the dual-gap, low-distortion XBL²bass technology, which includes a pair of force-generating magnet gaps where conventional drivers use only one.

SplitGap provides about twice the linear cone excursion and piston volume displacement over anything we're aware of in the A1b's class. SplitGap also dramatically lowers speaker distortion. The Arx A1b's tuned bass alignment and larger net internal volume generates response to impressive new depths for a bookshelf/monitor speaker.

We engineered the Arx A1b to give you enormous dynamic reserve so turn em up and enjoy even when they're pulled out into the room on speaker stands - this is one compact economy monitor that won't get harsh, in your face, or weak in the knees. These twin technologies combine for great clarity and spell-binding dynamic contrasts. Even at only a little over a foot tall, the Arx A1b goes even bigger then the original A1 for a fraction of the cost of usual "high end" systems.

The A1b is a smart looking, computer-milled enlosure, assembled and finished to high professional standards by real loudspeaker pros. It's finished in stealthy simulated black ash. A removable black knit grille, rear-facing aerodynamic tuned port, and heavy, single input terminal pair complete the speaker.

The A1b is individually serial numbered, and is sold, packed, and ship in pairs.

Download the Arx User Guide

Intended use

The Arx A1b is designed with adequate diffraction step compensation and dynamic reserves to allow its use as a main loudspeaker. This compensation equalizes the speaker's frequency response so that as omnidirectional low frequencies begin to wrap around the cabinet, the more directional upper frequencies remain tonally balanced. At higher levels the A1b holds its own and remains composed where other inexpensive speakers become congested, shrill, and amusical.

Dual-use options

The Arx A1b also includes a convertible bass refex system with an aerodynamically-flared rear port that provides bass reinforcement at very low frequencies. This port is designed for high flow - it compliments the A1b's very long throw woofer's much higher output.

An optional free charcoalester foam plug can be used that converts the enclosure tuning from bass reflex to acoustic suspension, allowing the A1b to be used as a bookshelf or effects speaker closer to boundaries. If the converted A1b is used in an active highpass setup, acoustic suspension may aid AVR or processor crossover integration to the system's .1 channel active subwoofer. The convertible A1b bass system gives the speaker added flexibility for numerous setup options.

The Arx planar-magnetic tweeter.

The A1b's long-throw woofer has a treated cellulose cone for natural, detailed sound.

The A1b's high-power crossover network sums the drivers seamlessly. Like all Arx models, the A1b has been engineered for a consistent soundfield with excellent acoustical power distribution. Inside we've used heavy gauge, low-loss inductors, premium film capacitors, and non-inductive resistors, all CAD-designed and then tuned by ear over dozens of hours of critical listening.

For a complete Arx system, select the A3 tower speaker for main duty and the A2 for excellent center-channel performance - the Arx A1b speaker shares drivers and acoustics with the rest of the line, allowing you to mix and match easily.

The Audio Insider is proud to present this extraordinary line of products at very special prices. Try a pair of Arx A1b's anywhere you need excellent resolution, lowest distortion, and the most satisfying sound in its class.

Download the Arx User Guide

Arx technology

Arx speakers are based on two important, groundbreaking technologies and we've got both in one economical performance loudspeaker. The first is the "planar-magnetic" high frequency technology. The second is the radical new Arx "SplitGap" bass technology.

Tweeter

All Arx speakers use a special planar magnetic flat-panel tweeter with superb high frequency characteristics. This special device is quite unique to speaker systems of the modest Arx cost. In fact, this device is typically found in speakers costing many times more than Arx.

The planar magnetic tweeter consists of a feather-light membrane driven uniformly by a magnetic field created by intensely powerful Neodymium bar magnets. Foil conductors bonded to a thermoplastic membrane carry delicate high-frequency signals nearly perfectly. Lacking the complex mechanical interplay of the many parts that comprise conventional tweeters, the planar magnetic tweeter's sound has both great detail and excellent dynamic power. Music and soundtracks are imparted with the natural, neutral high frequency detail needed for excellent definition as well as the robust output required for today's dynamic recordings.

The planar magnetic tweeter also possesses high thermal capacity and electrical power handling, together with controlled dispersion, making it sure to keep its cool during peak demands and to do so predictably within the listening environment.

Compared to usual domes and cones, you can see just how different Arx planar magnetic tweeters are.

The entire sound-producing assembly has been replaced with a simple emissive diaphragm of flat, micro-light high temperature polymer film. This diaphragm has a flat response to beyond 30kHz, a half octave beyond most dome tweeters. In an Arx tweeter, there's less to resonate, less to distort, and less to fail.
The Arx tweeter's voice coil is an evenly distributed pattern of ultra-light foil. No other parts are needed so there's nothing to weigh down the moving surface.
The flat, ultra-low mass Arx tweeter diaphragm is energized by rows of powerful Neodymium magnets, ounce for ounce about five times more powerful than those in regular tweeters.
Arx's special tweeters have more radiating area, given them a reduction in intermodulation distortion you can hear and measure - your music and soundtracks simply sound clearer, more effortless, and more transparent.

Unlike the lesser domes found in common speakers at Arx's low cost, the planar magnetic or "ribbon" tweeter has lower distortion at every volume level.

Download the Arx User Guide

Midrange / Midbass

All Arx models mate special tweeter technology with high-power "SplitGap" midwoofers with licensed XBL²dual-gap technology. These drivers feature radically higher excursion and very low distortion. All are precision-tuned to each Arx enclosure for very good quality bass from compact enclosures.

What is XBL² SplitGap? This rare licensed technology adds a second voice coil gap and significant distortion-reduction - think of it as a turbocharged regular woofer. SplitGap's second drive gap is carefully positioned so that where a conventional woofer's gives up, an Arx cone shifts into acoustic overdrive and virtually doubles its output. For an audible bonus, SplitGap slashes distortion at the same time.

SplitGap woofers have shorter voice coils for lower moving mass and lower inductance, giving Arx speakers excellent midrange articulation.
Copper in the SplitGap motor reduces distortion-causing flux modulation, greatly extends speaker response, and improves thermal capacity for higher power handling.
SplitGap motors have more uniform cone drive, lowering distortion at any point of motion.

Compared to regular woofers, SplitGap has 40% less motor distortion. Arx XBL² motor technology also nearly literally doubles the speaker's "volume displacement" - the total amount of air the woofer driver can displace - for unexpectedly deep and dynamic bass.

The Arx high performance midwoofer, while having the broader midrange dispersion and higher extension of a 5.25" cone, can move as much or more air as a good 6.5" woofer. SplitGap greatly reduces distortion, runs cooler, and can take more power.

Crossover networks

All Arx models include precision crossover assemblies optimized for linear power and predictable dispersion. Components are best quality, featuring epoxy circuit boards, low-loss inductors and premium film capacitors for critical signal areas. All models are designed for in-phase output, flat response to industry standards, and optimized off-axis dispersion. Each is further tuned by ear for the highest degree of musicality we can give them, a critical step and the final element of the Arx sound,

Cabinets

Extreme Arx performance requires a heavy, braced enclosure, which all models have. All models rely on precision, computererized mill-cut 18mm thick reinforced cabinets from one of the best cabinet houses in the industry. While not fancy, these enclosures are perfectly tuned and heavy enough for great sonics at any level.

Lastly, extreme Arx value calls for conservative finishes, which is why every Arx speaker is finished in simulated Black Ash PVC. Arx finishes clean easily, blend in, and with reasonable care, last a long time.

FEATURES:

SPECIFICATIONS:

3" wideband planar-magnetic tweeter
High-excursion SplitGap 135mm midwoofer with XBL2 technology
Precision electronic dividing network
Convertible bass reflex acoustic alignment
Port plug (included) adds setup and use options
High power handling
Simulated black ash PVC finish
Includes black fabric grille
Priced, packed, and shipped in pairs
Manufacturer's warranty included
Includes The Audio Insider's 30-day in-home satisfaction guarantee

...

Frequency Response: 52Hz-25kHz +/- 3dB
Low Frequency cutoff: 40Hz -6dB
Sensitivity (1w/1m): 85dB
System type:Convertible bass reflex tuned to 50Hz
Nominal Impedance: 8 Ohms
Minimum impedance: 6.5 ohms
Recommended Power: 20-150W
Dimensions: 350 x 180 x 260mm
Dimensions: 13.8 x 7.1 x 10.25in
Net Weight: 7.7kg / 17lbs each

CUSTOMER REVIEWS:

Would you like to review this product? Owners are invited to do just that. Place an order for this product and we'll send you an invitation to review in 15 days.

Total Reviews: 19

by Tom C

Wednesday May 08, 2013

Great speakers, compact for the amount of bass. Lots of new details I never heard before in songs before. Much better than my old Sony floor standing speakers.

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]

by Joel M

Wednesday April 03, 2013

I have tried to come up with a comprehensive review of the A1b for a while now. I have written up a couple drafts comparing them to my old speakers. I have tried a couple from a mostly objective standpoint. I have even tried to describe the sounds of individual instruments without sounding like one of the audiophools who base quality on price and brand recognition. After a number of attempts I think I have finally found something that will work for me.
I love the Arx A1b�s. They sound neutral and measure very flat. They have excellent dynamics. They have great definition, detail, imaging and soundstage. For a pair of bookshelf speakers with 5.25� woofers, they have surprisingly good bass. And the tweeter? Well, the tweeter does not belong in a $300/pair speaker.
In fact, I can�t believe that I found speakers that I love so much, for so little money. 5 A1b�s make for a beautiful home theater system. I think I�m going to be an Arx customer for a long time.

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]

by David L

Wednesday January 16, 2013

I was looking for a neutral sounding bookshelf. I recently tried the Ascend Sierra-1 and actually found it to have a slight forward sound (base tweeter). The A1b is neutral. The bass is very strong (due to split gap). Highly recommend this speaker.

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]

by Jason H

Thursday January 10, 2013

What a pleasant surprise! A while back I was in need of a speaker because my friend wanted his Swan M200MKII back after I have borrowed from him for nearly 2 years. At that time, I was almost certain that not many other speakers out there for around $300 could get me the sound quality produced by the Swan system. Though lacking a little on the treble on the Swan and subtle muffle on the mid, I was quite happy with the Swan M200MKII for its value and quality. After I was left empty handed, I set out my search for a speaker that may hopefully match my standard. First, I had gotten the Cambridge S30, as so many reviewers rave about such speakers, I was much persuaded that it would at least match the M200MKII at some level. Oh boy, was I dead wrong. After burning in the Cambridge S30 for a few hours, I still felt extremely dissatisfied how small those little speakers sound. The mid sounded stronger than the Swan, however, it did not produce the level of quality a $250 speaker should have. Not to speak of a total lack of treble. I pulled out a J.S Bach Violin Concerto No. 1 and was outraged by the absence of high range. I was so outraged to a point that I just wanted those speakers gone. So I quickly went online and placed my second choice Arx A1b (mainly due to the lack of proper review and comparison). When the Arx A1b arrived, I was immediately impressed by how solid the build quality for this speaker. Also, these things are HEAVY! Unlike the Cambridge S30 where you can probably throw them around like football (I would if I didn't have to return them for a full refund). Excited I was, I pulled out the same old Bach Violin Concerto No. 1 and boy was I in for a Charlie the Chocolate Factory treat. The difference of the clarity in the treble is indescribable, as well as the mid and low. Unlike the Cambridge, Arx A1b brings a sort of balance into music that resembles the acoustic quality as if one sits at the premium section in a symphony hall. The bass is not overpowered, but rather it magically produces a sense of depth without being loud. Note that loudness and depth are two complete separate things. Having a bass loud could be very shallow in most cases. From the countless speakers I have listened, these low excursion bass is comparable to those from B&W. The vocal mid range from jazz music (Diana Krall) is as full as the pair of Energy RC series I have in the living room. And last but not least, the treble can be heard in great extension especially in classical music is beyond my expectation. I have never heard such beautiful, clean, oriented, balanced, and refined treble without sounding harsh and fatiguing. I could listen to music all day and not realize it is still playing. The perfection in the treble is absolutely unmatched. In the Violin Concerto No. 1 example, it is never an easy thing to spot the aftereffect of bowing from a violin. The subtle sound of which the finger leaves the string can EASILY be heard from these speakers. It is an absolute pleasure to experience such high quality product with incredible value. Not only I am absolutely in love with Arx A1b, my ears can finally find its way back to order after being train wrecked by the Cambridge.

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]

by Bill P

Thursday January 03, 2013

Speakers came in a sturdy, double-boxed configuration.
Speakers look nice........need to work ona more flashy Arx label, though ( the Ascend speakers I ordered at the same time have a nice logo!)
Still in process of evaluating sound, but I like what I hear so far!!!

Rating: [4 of 5 Stars!]

by luke m

Tuesday November 27, 2012

This is my first real speaker purchase. Thus far my audio experience is limited to high end Audio Technica headphones and Shure in ear monitors, so I don't have much to compare to, but I am very happy with my Arx so far.

When they arrived they were very nicely packaged. Double boxed, with high density foam inserts protecting the speakers. The speakers arrived in flawless condition. The black finish is plain but well done. Everything looks and feels very solid, and well built.

When I first set them up they didn't sound as fantastic as I was hoping for, based on everything I had read, but after a few days of breaking them in with a lot of music, games and some movies they are really starting to sound great.

I am running them from a Yamaha v673 and I also thought there was a noticeable boost in sound quality once I took the receiver off of eco mode. The sound became much fuller, the sound stage expanded, and things just generally sounded better. Now I see what everybody else was talking about.

Looking forward to adding an A2b center channel when they are available.

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]

by John O

Sunday November 18, 2012

Have been enjoying the A1b speakers for about two weeks now. Damn these speakers! I don't want to listen to anything else now, my other speakers sound like junk compared to these. The punch and tightness of the bass, the timber and musicality, the separation, all of it is superb. I'm sure it helps that I already had a decent amp and a good DAC. I play my music through a laptop.

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]

by Zach S

Sunday November 04, 2012

I cannot overstate how much I enjoy listening to these speakers. The bass response is clean and accurate. The sound stage is well-detailed, realistic and has awesome depth. Even in a relatively simple 2.0 setup they display a lot of dimension and versatility. It's a mystery to me how such a high quality product can command such a low price. The A1bs have earned my recommendation with ease.

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]

by Bill L

Friday October 12, 2012

These A1b's have a much brighter sound than the 15-year-old Boses they replace, and in combination with the existing sub-woofer give a pleasant, balanced sound.

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]

by Conley G

Wednesday September 19, 2012

First some background on me and my path through the audio journey I have been on for 30 years. I have been into audio since my late teens. My first musical system was a Magnavox integrated system with 8-Track!
I wore out a lot of lp's on that system. It was junk, but I loved it. My first real system consisted of an Onkyo receiver and a set of Infinity bookshelf speakers. Over the years I have moved on to more power and different equipment. I have owned the following speakers: Infinity, JBL, DCM, Carver, Polk, and Boston Acoustics. I eventually decided I wanted a serious system around 8 years ago and started demoing different speakers and technology. I ended up loving the sound and presence of electrostatics, ribbons, and planar technology. I almost went with Martin Logan, but ended up acquiring a set of Newform Research R645's and absolutely fell in love with them. I also purchased an Odyssey Audio Stratos 2 channel amp and a Music Hall CD25 and I had my ultimate system. It was the sound I liked. The R645's presence, transient response and airiness were exactly what I was looking for. I got a 2 channel system that I felt rivaled something costing 3 or 4 times what I payed. I still have the R645's in my main listening room and have not found anything to match them for the price/performance ratio. I have had a pair of Boston Acoustic bookshelf speakers in my bedroom for years and have enjoyed them, but I have always missed the ribbon like sound while listening to them. A couple of weeks ago I started looking for something small to replace the BA's with and bring some ribbon like sound to my bedroom. After scouring the internet I had several models I looked at, but really didn't see anything close to what I thought was a good price/performance system until I came upon the Arx A1b's. I started researching them and really liked what I read. Having ordered the internet only Newform Research R645's, I wasn't too concerned about purchasing again over the internet. I had the 30 day return policy so I just had the shipping cost to lose if I didn't like them. And....
I love them! They are absolutely the most amazing pair of $300 speakers I have ever come across. They cost 1/10th of my R645's, but probably achieve
80-90% of their performance. Yes, I need a sub to get the bass of my Newform's, but the imaging, transient response, and airiness are there. I have some break in time left, but out of the box they sounded better than any other speaker systems I have listened to in in their price range. They are open and fast! And for $300? Absolutely amazing. I am definitely not a specification sort of audio listener. I just like what I like. What I hear. And the A1b's are fantastic. Tight decent bass, great smooth mid range, and stunning hi end. Vocals are open and alive. Drums are sharp and tight. And did I mention the highs? :) The high end just rocks. Realistic and fast! Drumstick slaps and cymbal attacks are sharp and tight. Just what I like in a speaker system. No, they don't have the presence of the Newform Research R645's. But they are a lot closer than I thought a bookshelf could ever get to. If you are looking for a ribbon/planar like sound at a fantastic price, look no further than the Arx A1b's. I am definitely interested in the surround options Jon is working on and will not purchase any surround speakers until I see what he comes out with. I am also interested in what Jon can do with a line source system based on his technology. I have wanted to upgrade my R645's for a couple of years and thought I would just go with the Newform Research LineSource Reference for around $13,000. Jon, can you come up with something as good or better at a better price? If so I am in line to pick up a pair as soon as they are available. Give me a decent choice of cabinet materials and I will camp out in front of your offices to wait.
Thanks for the work you have done in this space and keep up the good work.
Chuck

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]

by Jeffrey N

Saturday September 08, 2012

I really did not have time to listen to the A1b's and therefore can not comment on them, I am just now setting them up along side the A5's and I know that they will not dissapoint, I expect everything from them to be like the A5 but on a smaller scale. They are very solid speakers and have the same thud sounding cabinet as their bigger sibling. Driver technolgy and implementation is the same so I would expect nothing less than stellar performance from them. I will post my impressions as mains soon. Thank you

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]

by Justin E

Tuesday September 04, 2012

I honestly couldn't be happier with this purchase. I replaced a set of Bose 301 series 4 bookshelf speakers and the difference was distinct. I have much better sense of space and direction with my music. The sound on both music and movies is just heaven to my ears. Crisp highs through the entire range. I never heard is get shrill and harsh. I'm also amazed by the amount of bass these little babies put out. I'm stunned. My plan is to use them as rears when I order the A5's for the front and an A2 for center. With the amount of sound I already get from the A1b's, I'm almost afraid of the next batch, but it's a great fear! So happy, and so excited!

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]

by Michael K

Tuesday February 14, 2012

Quite simply, the Arx A1 bookshelfs and A2 center exceeded my expectations; I was not prepared for something that cost only $249 / $189 respectively to be able to produce exceptional tight bass, clear mids and crisp treble. I am running them with an HSU STF-2 sub that seems to compliment them very well (without the ports plugged); my Denon 1612 drives these much louder than one would expect from something their size (though the A2 is actually quite large), filling my mid-sized room with incredible sound whether it be from movies or music.
Physically, the units suit my tastes�they certainly aren�t flashy but they match my decor well. Both the A1s and A2s are very solidly constructed, everything about them screams quality. In an ideal situation I�d move the A1s to surround duty and pick up the A5s when they are released, but thanks to room constraints I plan to pick up the A1bs for use as L/R mains and playing with the port plugs in the A1s as surrounds � that�s how much the Arx brand has won me over. Arx speakers are exceptional quality and therefore value, and deserve to be on the shortlist for anyone interested in a high quality but reasonably priced home theatre setup.

Rating: [4 of 5 Stars!]

by Anil K

Thursday January 26, 2012

I posted a detailed review under the owner reviews section.

http://www.theaudioinsider.com/forum/showthread.php?1582-Arx-(A1)-Speakers-Review

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]

by Paul W

Thursday January 12, 2012

Speakers replaced a older set of inadequate speakers that broke up playing DVDs at medium volume. Improved my classical music experience as part of a 4 speaker Dolby surround sound system. Excellent speakers out of the box.

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]

by Kelly W

Thursday January 05, 2012

I am blown away by the sound out of these small speakers. Currently using them as L R in my 5600 Cubic foot space! They fill the room with sound!

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]

by Bienvenido G

Saturday November 26, 2011

These speakers sound amazing! Tremendous amount of clarity and a lot of bass from the splitgap midwoofers. Excellent soundstage. The Arx speakers are very transparent--they disappear in the background and you will be immersed in the sound. I sometimes run my A1s on stereo and I forget that the A2 is not running--they're that good. I ran the test tone and you have to listen hard to pin point the speaker location.

I'm using the A1s as my LR fronts (while waiting for my Arx towers). They integrate well with the A2 (center channel). The speaker is also musical. I run them full range with no problems.

Overall a great value and highly recommended. Thank you TAI for developing an audiophile-grade product line at such an affordable price. I look forward to the A5, A7, Asub and future developments.

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]

by Austin P

Thursday November 17, 2011

The Arx A1s at first don't look like they can do much but you will be surprised when you start listening to them they are simply awesome. I have looked around for other bookshelf speakers and nothing compares to the technology and sound that is in the A1s. This is my first time ever hearing a "ribbon tweeter", I am extremely happy with it. To top it off Jon is a awesome guy for support.

Rating: [4 of 5 Stars!]

by Paul L

Wednesday April 27, 2011

I have been an audiophile for well over 30 years. When I ordered the Arx A1 speakers as just a fill-in until my very expensive 3 way system was built I thought nothing for $250 can be any good. I was totally wrong. The bass from thee little speakers is very respectable especially if you remove the foam plug from the port. Also the ribbon tweeter is very smooth and open. I have a friends with Warfedale 10,1s, and the Paradigm Atoms. This is more refined than them both. The Warfedale have a slightly more punchy bass but it is not as tuneful. I used a small subwoofer and I cross it over at 80hz and I have a nice full range system. The best speaker for the money out there. I heard the Arx A3 and the center channel too. Exceptional. These speakers better the competition at even 2x the price. Very well done and thank you, Paul L.

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]


MSRP: $0.00 pair
Insider Price: $299.00 pair