Performance & Sound
“This is one of the best speakers I’ve heard in almost two decades of reviewing audio.”
“The Monitor 8s sounded as clean as any speakers I’ve ever reviewed and seemed to uncover every last detail.”
“The Arendals were more effortless, betraying no sense of exertion whatsoever.”
“Bass-heavy recordings could be played at ridiculously high levels, and the Monitor 8s never sounded strained.”
“The music was visceral; as good as I’ve heard in my system.”
“The Monitor 8 is an incredibly revealing speaker… more open than the competition.”
“Their effortless sound and even tonal balance invites long listening sessions.”
“I’ve never heard a speaker that can fill my large basement with deep bass — until now.”
“They called little attention to themselves and simply communicated what was in the grooves of the vinyl.”
Technical Excellence
“The Monitor 8 has a sense of effortlessness that sets it apart from just about every speaker I’ve ever reviewed.”
“It can play at ear‑damaging levels without obvious signs of strain.”
“This speaker is nearly full‑range — remarkable for a standmount at this price point.”
“Front-to-back layering on the stage was readily revealed through the Monitor 8s.”
“The Arendals sounded more open, with more texture and warmth than the competition.”
Build, Value & Design
“Constructed from HDF and weighing 104 pounds, the Monitor 8 is monstrous.”
“The feel and overall appearance oozes quality, befitting a flagship product.”
“Its price puts the Monitor 8 within reach of far more people.”
“I wish I didn’t have to send them back.”
Comparing to Other Speakers
“The Monitor 8 is more effortless at high volumes than almost anything I’ve heard.”
“Compared to the Monitor Audios, the Arendals sounded more open.”
“It encouraged higher playback — with zero signs of strain.”
Listening Experience
“The stage was enormous without feeling distant.”
“The Arendals communicated the mood, atmosphere, and energy of the music beautifully.”
“They made it easy to ‘see’ the performance while simply listening.”
“The fact that a pair of them does all of this for US$6800 (US$8350 with stands) has me shaking my head in disbelief. I wish I didn’t have to send them back.“
