Short answer: the Ascend Acoustics Sierra 1 v2, because it digs deeper. The Arendal 1961 Monitor rolls off around 70-80Hz and cannot serve as full-range mains without a subwoofer, while the Sierra 1 v2 reaches F3 of 55Hz and F10 of 39Hz for in-room extension in the mid-40s Hz. The Arendal counters with a heavy, solidly built cabinet and low compression and distortion, at $1,150 versus $1,000.
Buy the Ascend Acoustics Sierra 1 v2. It is rated higher for sound quality than the Arendal 1961 Monitor and costs less, which makes it the one to get unless you need something the other one does better.
Looking for alternatives? See the complete Passive Home rankings.
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Specifications Side By Side
| Arendal 1961 Monitor | Ascend Acoustics Sierra 1 v2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1150 per pair | $1000 per pair |
| Ranked | #8 of 179 in Medium Size Bookshelf Speakers | #3 of 179 in Medium Size Bookshelf Speakers |
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 60Hz (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner) | 39Hz (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner) |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 84Hz (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner) | 55Hz (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner) |
| Crossover Frequency | 1500Hz | - |
| Dimensions | 16.6”H x 6.4”W x 5.9”D (421.6 x 162.6 x 149.9 mm) | 14.2”H x 7.5”W x 10.5”D (361.9 x 190.5 x 266.7 mm) |
| Impedance | 4 ohms nominal (4.1 ohms minimum above 80Hz, measured by Erin’s Audio Corner) | 8 ohms nominal, 7 ohms minimum (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner) |
| Sensitivity | 85.9dB (measured average, Erin’s Audio Corner) | 81.5dB (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner) |
| Drivers | 2 x 5.5” woofers, 28mm tweeter | 5.25” proprietary mineral-filled polypropylene cone with cast aluminum frame woofer, 26mm aluminum/magnesium alloy dome tweeter with titanium former (SEAS Titan) |
| Weight | 16 lbs (7.25 kg) each | 18.5 lbs (8.4 kg) each |
| Woofer Cabinet | sealed | ported |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 3.38 | 6.65 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 6.69 | 8.61 |
| DIY Kit | No | No |
Watch Them Compared
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