Overall impression
“It was clear from the start that this is a lot of loudspeaker for the money. An incredible amount.”
“I was awestruck by both the quality of the sound and the amount of top-quality low frequency output the Bookshelf 8s were able to produce.”
Bass performance
“Huge, deep and exceptionally controlled bass for a standmount speaker.”
“The bass was powerful, extended and clean.”
“Time after time the panel noted the phenomenal bass abilities of the Bookshelf 8s: the speed, the sheer attack and detail conveyed through the low frequencies.”
“All this from such a modest cabinet really defies physics.”
“If you like your bass big, your bass flawless and your bass fast then look no further until you’ve heard these Norwegian boxes.”
Soundstage and dynamics
“Their raison d’être is sound-staging and bass reproduction.”
“Live material is handled so exceptionally well that I really thought at times that I was listening to larger floor standing loudspeakers.”
“Dynamics are among their forte.”
“The soundstage was enormous, in height, width and depth.”
“Expansive soundstage with excellent dynamics and scale.”
Musicality
“Tonally, the Bookshelf 8s create a mightily impressive sound and turn any recording into a performance.”
“These speakers are for the music-lover.”
“They added a level of authenticity the panel said they rarely heard from this track on their own systems.”
Live recordings
“They are probably at their best with true live material.”
“Have we ever heard Supertramp’s double live album Paris sound as good as this on anything at even twice this price? … I had to admit, probably not.”
“It was knockout.”
“We listened in awe at what these modest loudspeakers were able to recreate.”
Treble
“The treble is so good, detailed without being brash or bright.”
“Detailed, refined treble that avoids harshness.”
Value
“Value-for-money with the Bookshelf 8 is exceptional and I can’t think of a better-value loudspeaker.”
“Truly deserving of a Best Buy status.”
“The compact Bookshelf 8s are capable of filling big spaces with high-quality sound.”
Character
“These babies can rock and rock hard.”
“All-in-all, Arendal have created a ‘salty’ little number.”
“The design produces energy with a slightly bright top-end and well defined, tight bass.”
“It gives the audio extra flavour or zest.”
Read the full review HERE.
