REFERENCE CLASS 1+

Arendal 1723 Subwoofer 2S: Top-Class Low-Frequency Performance

Two Is Better Than One

At the end of 2019, the Norwegian manufacturer used newly developed “Avalanche amplifier modules” with DSP in the subwoofers of the 1961 series. Now the new models of the top series 1723 can also boast these powerful modules with even higher performance and more options.

Again, as a reminder, the names of Arendal’s model series are always based on historical events in the Norwegian town of Arendal, with the 1723 series representing what is technologically feasible and the somewhat less expensive 1961 series containing slightly smaller speakers that provide similar technology at fair prices and offer only slightly less dynamic range and sound pressure. However, the product development strategy has resulted in the inexpensive 1961 series being the first to benefit from using the current subwoofer amplifier modules. We have already published a test of the 1961 subwoofers in the “Heimkino” issue 1-2/2020. Now the models of the higher-quality 1723 series, including the “Avalanche amplifier module” with a significantly higher power, are also available. We ordered the 1723 2S with a sealed cabinet for testing; a ported variant is also available.

By Michael Voigt.

“…distortions and other noise are virtually eliminated.”

((Caption)) Despite mighty dimensions and dual drivers (only the left chassis is shown in the picture), the Arendal 1723 subwoofers also cut a fine figure in the living room.

1723 2S

Even the product designation “2S” indicates the construction of this new subwoofer from Arendal. Because two drivers, each with a gigantic 300-millimeter diameter diaphragm, provide powerful bass pressure in the approximately 54 x 50 x 42 centimeters large, sealed cabinet. Firstly, two active drivers offer twice the cone surface area and thus more sound pressure. Secondly, the “back-to-back” arrangement ensures audibly lower cabinet resonances, as interfering vibrations of the drivers practically compensate for each other. Only the two diaphragms’ enormous air movement comes to bear acoustically; distortions and other noise are virtually eliminated.

+ tremendous power
+ 7-way EQ
+ extreme dynamics

Also contributing to good sound is the stable and massive construction of the housing, which also impresses visually with its excellent finish in matte sanding varnish. Optionally, the 1723 2S is also available in white sanded lacquer and surfaces in high-gloss paint. The actual highlight of the 1723 2S is the potent Avalanche amplifier module with 1,200 watts. It includes a built-in signal processor, which in addition to the usual crossover frequency and level controls, also brings a variety of tuning options for the subwoofers. Thus, the new Arendal 1732 2S subwoofer offers seven(!) fully parametric equalizers, adjustable low-cut or subsonic filters, individually adjustable on and off times, as well as trigger options through connected sources.

“It is even possible to connect AV receivers and stereo amplifiers in parallel if two systems are operated in the listening room.”

It is even possible to connect AV receivers and stereo amplifiers in parallel if two systems are operated in the listening room. The Arendal 1723 Series woofers can detect the source currently playing and use the appropriate input – so hi-fi and home theater systems can share a single subwoofer. The settings on the Avalanche module are easy to make using a rotary control and two buttons, and a high-resolution display in the amplifier module guides you through all the setting menus.

Lab and practice

Powerful output down to just below 20 Hertz is no problem for the 1723 2S, even at extreme sound pressure levels up to 110 dB, as our measurements in the lab prove. Small peaks in the frequency response can be quickly ironed out thanks to parametric EQ (green and red curves in the diagram), but this requires a little listening experience, patience, or a reliable measuring instrument. In the end, the Arendal subwoofer shows its capabilities in the listening room at the highest level. The 1723 2S pushes substantial levels into our home theater with immediate power and precision, including noticeable pressure in the stomach area. Precise, to the point, and impulsive, the Arendal delivers tremendous low-frequency material and makes movie nights in the home theater a real experience.

“Precise, to the point, and impulsive, the Arendal delivers tremendous low-frequency material and makes movie nights in the home theater a real experience.”

Result

If you want to enjoy home cinema sound at the highest level and physically feel powerful, precise low-frequency sound, the 1723 S2 subwoofer from Arendal is ideal. The power amplifier’s enormous power of 1,200 watts, two 300-millimeter long-throw drivers, and a DSP with seven fully parametric equalizers ensure maximum sound performance. Arendal 1723 S2 – arguably one of the best subwoofers in the world for demanding home theaters and hi-fi systems.

Crossover frequency
Powerful reproduction down to below 20 Hz is no problem for the 1723 2S. Employing the parametric EQ, the lowest octave can even be extended (red curve), slight peaks in the “neutral” laboratory measurement (blue curve) can also be sensitively ironed out (green curve).

Level
Only at enormous levels of 110 dB (1 meter) can slight signs of compression be detected. Two large 300 mm drivers and a full 1,200 watts give the 1723 2S sufficient dynamics.

((Caption)) The powerful active module is quite easy to operate thanks to the display and two buttons plus a rotary control.

Price around €1,999
Distribution Arendal Sound
Telephone 44 1233 800804

Features and equipment

Versions sanding lacquer white / black, high gloss black / white
Dimensions (W x H x D) 420 x 530 x 500 mm
Construction Sealed
Sidefire principle
Weight 41.4 kg
Power (according to manufacturer) 1,200 watts RMS
Diaphragm diameter 2 x 300 mm
Level control buttons, app
Control range crossover frequency 30 – 200 Hz
Phase control 0° – 180
EQ 7-way fully parametric
Low level input/output Cinch / –
High level input/output – / –
Automatic On/Off – –
Remote control / App – / –

– Sound 70 % 1+ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Precision 20 % 1.0 ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Level stability 20 % 0.9 ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Dynamic response 15 % 0.9 ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Physical impact 15 % 1.0 ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
– Laboratory 10% 1.0 ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Frequency response 5 % 0.9 ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Distortion 5 % 1.0 ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
– Practice 20 % 1.0 ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Equipment 15 % 0.9 ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Workmanship 5 % 1.1 ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Rating

+ tremendous power
+ 7-way EQ
+ extreme dynamics

Arendal 1723 Subwoofer 2S
price/performance: excellent
Reference class 1+