An amazing-sounding pair of audio system is one factor – and the Amphion Argon1 actually match into that class – however what’s extra spectacular is when you possibly can hear an organization’s values with each notice that’s performed.
In Amphion’s case, the Finnish producer’s bold goal of making versatile audio system that can pair with virtually something, and that you simply don’t need to rearrange the home to make sound good, is clearly evident. At this worth, that skillset is somewhat laborious to come back by.
It has been greater than a decade since we final examined a pair of Amphion audio system, and it’s honest to say we weren’t overly enamoured again then. That these diminutive gems are worthy of advice is much more welcome.
Construct and compatibility
You could have heard of the Argon1 earlier than – Amphion has been constructing these speakers for a good portion of its 20-odd yr historical past. We’re actually not the primary individuals to be gained over by their kind.
Amphion Argon1 tech specs
Sort Two-way, vented
Drivers 2.5cm tweeter, 13cm woofer
Sensitivity 86dB
Frequency response 45Hz – 25,000kHz
Dimensions (hwd) 31.6 x 16 x 26.5cm
Weight 8kg
At round 32cm tall and 27cm deep, they’re the second smallest providing in Amphion’s bookshelf vary, after the tiny Argon0, and are dwarfed by rivals such because the KEF R3. Although we wouldn’t advocate taking that bookshelf moniker severely, it means the Argon1 will slot in just about any room – one thing you couldn’t say about their KEF rivals.
They aren’t constructed to sound small, nonetheless. Amphion guarantees reference-quality midrange and deep bass from the Argon1’s 13cm aluminium-coned driver, which sits beneath a 25mm titanium dome tweeter. The tweeter sits in a deeply dished faceplate that goals to provide a level of horn-loading and controls the unit’s dispersion traits.
Whereas the metallic speaker grilles will be eliminated every time you need to play music, they really support dispersion somewhat than hamper it – as most detachable covers do if left on throughout playback. All of it contributes to those audio system’ accommodating character, catering for plug-in-and-play, place it anyplace listening.
And that’s the way it transpires. Inserting the Argon1 with their again proper up towards the wall returns a bit extra bass weight than having them out into the room, however within the latter place, the sound isn’t weakened in any respect. The character stays wherever you set them; it’s not typically a speaker can promise that and truly ship when examined.
Sound
That’s even higher information when you think about that physique and stability are main fortes of those really likeable standmounters. The pursuit of such likeability can typically result in a roll-off of probably tough or simply provoked frequencies, however Amphion is assured in its capability to ship treble and bass that’s equally wealthy and detailed because the midrange.
There’s a fullness to that midrange you won’t readily affiliate with smaller audio system, greatest demonstrated by the lavish vocal traces that also have sufficient texture to remind us these are audio system with a four-figure price ticket.
Don’t fret if you see Amphion boasting about these audio system’ bass response both; there may be loads of weight right here, however they don’t sacrifice that mature stability making an attempt to sound larger than they’re. Most significantly the low finish is quick and detailed, leaving you the choice to pair with a subwoofer when you crave extra muscle, however under no circumstances making {that a} necessity.
That’s all complemented by a extremely robust sense of focus. Whereas comparatively mellow in character, the Argon1 have first rate stereo imaging, which pans varied devices whereas putting melodies entrance and centre.
The issue is that the Argon1 come up towards some extremely robust competitors. They’re clear and quick, however by way of element, they battle to put a glove on the class-leading audio system round this worth, together with the KEF R3 and much more insightful KEF LS50 Meta.
Pitting the Argon1 towards the R3 won’t be a wholly honest combat – those that can accommodate the latter most likely gained’t be auditioning these Amphions. The LS50 Meta are a usually manageable measurement and in addition a number of hundred kilos cheaper.
It makes us really feel much less demanding for wanting extra of the KEFs’ strict timing and punchy dynamics from the Amphions. The Argon1 are usually not void of expression, nor would we name them boring, however they typically fail to seize us when the music calls for it. That additionally signifies that it’s vital to not pair them with something slovenly or apathetic.
However these are gripes solely when you think about that the competitors is stiffer than ever at this worth level – and there’s no pair of audio system that may declare to be good.
Verdict
When it comes to a pair of bookshelf audio system that it’s potential to put anyplace, and pair with just about something, you’ll battle to seek out many extra versatile than the Amphion Argon1. Added to a maturity that’s per their four-figure tag, and we’re positive these standmounters will discover many grateful house owners.
SCORES
- Sound 4
- Compatibility 4
- Construct 5
MORE:
Learn our information to the best stereo speakers
Learn our KEF R3 review
Learn our KEF LS50 Meta review