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DALI Rubikore 2
DALI’s Rubikore 2 is a similar performing speaker than the R3 Meta in terms of overall signature. And comparing them to the Arendal 1723 Monitor THX brings almost identical differences. The Rubikore 2 goes over the counter for $3,000 USD.
The Arendal goes quite a bit deeper than the DALI. It does so with higher impact, rumble and resolution. Bass on the Rubikore 2 sounds fuller, richer and more organic than on the Arendal. The 1723 delivers superior texture and control. It sounds tighter, faster and punchier than the Rubikore.
DALI’s Rubikore is warmer and fuller throughout the entire frequency spectrum. It delivers a smoother and more organic sound with a nicer emotional presence. Instruments and singers appear richer and weightier than on the hyper precise Arendal. The DALI also can’t match the vocal presence and clarity of the 1723 Monitor THX. Music has more flesh with the Rubikore but misses out on the precision and imaging the Arendal provides.
The stages of both monitors are almost identical in size, but the DALI places instruments left and right outside the speakers. Whereas the Arendal keeps them focused between them. Layering on the Arendal is going further into depth, while they also appear more in control during complex structures.
Both differ noticeably in treble. The Arendal has a brighter pitched top end with wider extension and higher sharpness. While the DALI delivers a more delicate and softer treble. It sounds richer and more accessible. The Arendal, however, delivers more air into the mids through the treble.
Conclusion
The Arendal Sound 1723 Monitor THX bookshelf speakers are a highly capable set of speakers that excel in bass depth, vocal clarity, treble extension, and overall precision. They offer a very transparent sound that reveals the quality of the recording—good tracks sound incredible, while poorly mastered ones are laid bare in their flaws. Their dynamic range and agility make them suitable for a wide range of genres, from electronic to rock, and their ability to function as both Hi-Fi and home cinema speakers is impressive.
For those who prioritize precision, clarity, and deep bass, the 1723 Monitor THX bookshelf speakers offer incredible value, but they do come with some trade-offs in terms of emotional warmth and soundstage immersion.
The Arendal Sound 1723 Monitor THX is a speaker that can become many things. It is perfect for home cinemas and HiFi listening, but I can also picture it in semi-professional recording studios. The rumble, high resolution and vocal clarity are excellent for home cinemas in my opinion. They offer insanely good value for the money, and it is hard to ignore how impressive they sound. For anyone who might see him/herself in this description above, do give the Arendal a try! They are now listed on our Recommended Buy List!
Summary
Pros:
Incredible detailing and resolution
Price/Performance off the charts
Dynamic and impactful bass
Superb vocal clarity
Build Quality
Cons:
Size (if that matters to you)
Upper midrange can become hot
