First impression / design
“With its imposing stature and clean, Nordic design, Arendal Sound’s 1723 Tower THX loudspeaker commands attention the moment you see it.”
“Nearly four feet tall, the 1723 Tower THX projects authority and sets the expectation of sonic mastery.”
“Overall, I thought the build quality was excellent for the price.”
“I found the aesthetic understated—stealthy with the grilles on, and tastefully menacing with the grilles off.”
Direct sales / trial / warranty
“Pricing is all-inclusive, covering shipping, taxes, and import duties.”
“The company offers a 60-day audition period with free return shipping for American and European customers, and a ten-year transferable warranty.”
Unboxing / accessories
“Each speaker comes double-boxed, protected by foam inserts and nestled in a monogrammed drawstring cloth bag . . . très chic.”
“These are the firmest-gripping magnetic grilles I have ever tried.”
Build / engineering (HDF, time alignment, damping)
“At 111.6 pounds, it’s surprisingly heavy, even for a full-size floorstander.”
“That’s due in no small part to the fact that the enclosure is built from high-density fiberboard as opposed to the medium-density fiberboard used for most other loudspeakers.”
“The front baffle is slightly raked back to ensure optimal time alignment of the multiple drivers.”
“Internal bracing and a butyl-based mass-damping layer within the enclosure walls minimize cabinet resonances.”
Bass + dynamics
“As expected, the low end was thrillingly dynamic, with impressive weight and extension, but it was also taut and articulate.”
“The deep, pulsating synth notes that punctuate the song had thunderous authority.”
“The kettle-drum strikes were impressively weighty and authoritative, yet absent of bloat.”
“The dynamic snap of each pluck was followed by the big, woody resonance of the instrument’s soundbox.”
Midrange / treble character (refined, not fatiguing)
“The piano notes shimmered with brilliance, yet retained their natural warmth, avoiding any hint of glare even at elevated volumes.”
“Blake’s voice emerged smoothly and organically, sounding slightly larger than I’m accustomed to, while deftly sidestepping any trace of sibilance.”
“The inherent dryness of the recording was softened by the Towers’ smoothness, allowing for extended listening at high volumes without fatigue.”
“The sound never became analytical.”
“The opening saxophone notes sounded full and lush, with just the right degree of reediness.”
Soundstage / imaging
“The soundstage unfolded with precision.”
“The 1723 Towers showcased their ability to convey a soundstage with abundant breadth and depth, while also providing a sense of height.”
“There was a pleasing roundness to note edges, with image outlines gently tapered rather than sharply etched.”
Home cinema credibility
“Through the Arendal Towers, the choral voices sounded convincingly corporeal, creating an eerie, almost mystical atmosphere.”
“In the iconic scene in front of the monolith… the Arendals reproduced the big fanfare from Thus Spake Zarathustra majestically.”
“Based on this experience, I have no doubt that these Arendal floorstanders would serve as a wonderful foundation for a full surround-sound setup.”
Conclusion lines
“Arendal Sound’s 1723 Tower THX is a loudspeaker that marries scale with sophistication.”
“In my listening, these big floorstanders delivered bass that was deep and powerful, but also impressively articulate.”
“High frequencies were smooth and refined, free from glare or harshness, ensuring long, fatigue-free listening sessions.”
“If you’re seeking a pair of loudspeakers that combine composure, authority, and a majestic sense of presence, the Arendal 1723 Tower THXs deserve a serious audition.”
