Norwegian loudspeaker manufacturer Arendal Sound has revealed the reintroduction of the 1961 series, which includes a range of loudspeakers and subwoofers designed for home theater and stereo systems. The company asserts that these products offer impressive performance at a competitive price point. Arendal Sound cites consumer interest as the driving force behind the revival of this product line.
Arendal Sound 1961: loudspeakers for two-channel and multi-channel sound
Norway-based manufacturer Arendal is reintroducing its eight-model 1961 series after a two-year break, driven by strong global demand. The company asserts that the 1961 series merges precise engineering, elegant Scandinavian aesthetics, and dynamic performance typically found in much pricier speakers.
The designation “1961” carries significant historical weight, reflecting the innovative spirit of Norwegian engineering. This year marked the completion of the Tromøy Bridge, which linked the island of Tromøy to the mainland near Arendal, representing a key advancement in accessibility and development. In a similar vein, Arendal Sound states that the 1961 Series is designed to provide listeners with an exceptional auditory experience, harmoniously combining traditional craftsmanship with state-of-the-art acoustic technology.
The 1961 Tower stands out as the flagship floorstanding model within the series, featuring a 2.5-way configuration that includes custom 5.5-inch long-fibre pulp cone drivers and a 28mm soft dome tweeter equipped with a waveguide. Arendal asserts that this floorstanding speaker offers a sophisticated, room-filling sound, complemented by an adjustable bass port for enhanced versatility. Additionally, the included spike kit facilitates precise tilt adjustments, optimizing the listening angle while reducing vibrations.
For those seeking a compact yet robust audio solution, the 1961 Monitor features a two-way design. This speaker can be positioned on a stand or mounted on a wall using a VESA100 compatible bracket. Similar to its larger version, it incorporates Arendal’s proprietary driver technology and waveguide tweeter, which the manufacturer asserts delivers a balanced and articulate sound profile.
The 1961 Bookshelf is even more compact while adhering to the same design principles. Tailored for smaller environments, it is said to maintain the brand’s hallmark clarity and dynamism. Its wall-mounting capability offers versatility for both stereo and surround sound setups.
Engineered for home theater applications, the 1961 Center is designed to provide clear, natural dialogue and seamless integration with other Arendal speakers, as stated by its creators. The compact two-way design, wall-mount compatibility, and matching driver configuration are said to ensure a cohesive soundstage in multi-channel configurations.
The 1961 Height speaker is specifically engineered for immersive spatial installations, catering to Dolby Atmos and other height channel needs. According to Arendal, its angled two-way configuration allows for versatile placement, whether on top of the 1961 Tower or mounted on walls and ceilings. This model enhances any audio system with a cinematic vertical dimension while ensuring tonal coherence with the rest of the series.
The 1961 Surround features a triaxial design that Arendal asserts delivers a broader and more immersive multi-channel audio experience. It incorporates two dipole full-range drivers that work in conjunction with a front-firing two-way mid/bass and tweeter system, producing a surround sound effect that seamlessly integrates into the listening environment. Additionally, wall-mounting options are available.
Arendal Sound 1961 subwoofers
The subwoofer lineup consists of two models: the 1961 Subwoofer 1V and the Subwoofer 1S. Both are powered by the Avalanche 550 iQ amplifier, which provides a robust 550 watts RMS output along with advanced DSP capabilities. According to Arendal, the 1V is designed with a vented configuration that enhances low-frequency performance, while also offering the flexibility to seal the bass port for improved accuracy across different room settings.
In contrast, the 1S features a compact sealed design, tailored for those who desire precise and controlled bass in smaller environments. Each model is equipped with a custom 12.2-inch driver made from glass-fiber reinforced materials, incorporating airflow venting technology that Arendal asserts ensures consistent performance across various dynamic ranges. Additional features include a 1.8-inch LCD display, customizable equalization options, and anti-vibration feet to promote stability and isolation.
Each speaker is made from high-density fiberboard (HDF) and is hand-painted, a process that Arendal claims results in a resonance-free, sturdy enclosure, enhancing the clarity and precision of sound reproduction.
Arendal Sound 1961 series: prices and delivery information
Every purchase includes a 60-day risk-free trial, a 10-year warranty on the speakers, and a five-year warranty on the subwoofer electronics. As with all Arendal products, buyers have access to a robust support network, including the community-driven Arendal Sound Club. To learn more, visit the Arendal website .
- Arendal 1961 Tower: 1,900 euros per pair
- Arendal 1961 Monitor: 1,150 euros per pair
- Arendal 1961 Bookshelf: 850 euros per pair
- Arendal 1961 Center: 600 euros per pair
- Arendal 1961 Height: 850 euros per pair
- Arendal 1961 Surround: 950 euros per pair
- Arendal 1961 Subwoofer 1V: 1,200 euros each
- Arendal 1961 Subwoofer 1S: 1,000 euros each
