Audience 1+1
The 1+1 V5 Personal Reference Monitors are the most unique small footprint loudspeaker in the world. They feature a highly refined proprietary wideband driver eliminating the need for desperate drivers and crossovers in the crucial mid through high frequency range. The 1+1 V5 measures flat from 55Hz up to 22Khz without the use of a dedicated tweeter and associated crossover. Consequently, transition at this most critical frequency range is entirely smooth and supremely coherent. The 1+1 V5 is a bi-pole design, which expands the soundstage, extends low frequency, and increases power handling. There are active full range drivers, in phase, on the front and rear baffles, complemented by passive radiators on each side. The jewel-like enclosure is a joy to look at and will fit into any room where space is at a premium and high-quality sound is desired. The A3S2-16 drivers employed in the 1+1 V5 are a dual gap motor design with ultra long-throw excursion providing surprising SPL levels and dynamic range. Don’t let their small size fool you. They are exceptionally resolute at low volumes and will effortlessly deliver the emotional slam of your most dynamic music. The 1+1 V5 personal reference monitors offer State of the Art near field listening (rated by The Absolute Sound Magazine).
Features
Measurements
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The 1+1 V5 delivers a remarkably coherent sound from its crossover-less A3 full-range drivers, producing three-dimensional imaging, reference-grade midrange clarity and surprisingly taut, quick bass for its size. Reviewers praised its jewel-like fit-and-finish and dynamic authority, making these compact bipole monitors a rare combination of refinement and punch that rewards careful placement. Dr. Michael Bump
Pros
- Crossover-less A3 full-range drivers yield exceptionally natural, time-coherent mids and pinpoint imaging.
- Surprisingly fast, controlled bass for the cabinet size thanks to side passive radiators and refined voicing.
- Outstanding dynamics and transient speed that deliver micro- and macro-dynamic detail well beyond the speaker's size.
- High-quality fit-and-finish and thoughtful enclosure engineering (non-parallel baffles, premium internals).
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Cons
- Limited deep extension below ~40–55 Hz—most reviewers recommend a subwoofer for full-range weight in larger rooms.
- Premium price for a very small cabinet; MSRP increases have been noted and can feel steep relative to size.
Sound Quality
92/100
Bass
87/100
For a tiny dual 3" full-range monitor with side passive radiators (F3 ~55Hz), reviewers consistently praised surprisingly deep, fast, and controlled bass for the speaker's size while noting it lacks true sub-bass below ~40–50Hz. Multiple reviewers recommended a small subwoofer for full-range reproduction but emphasized the radiators and voicing/filter improved bass grip and power handling.
Mid
95/100
Nearly universal praise for liquid time alignment, natural timbre, vocal presence and organic, coherent midrange. Reviewers called the midband reference-class for a small monitor and highlighted seamless driver integration from the crossover-less wideband design.
Treble
92/100
Upper frequencies described as lightning-quick, crisp and airy without glare or sibilance; slight mellowing/roundedness at the extreme top noted by a few reviewers but overall treble is detailed, natural and non-fatiguing.
Soundstage Imaging
94/100
The bipole/full-range arrangement and lack of crossover produce expansive, three-dimensional imaging and precise placement; many reviewers described unusually large, realistic soundstages for an 8" tall monitor.
Dynamics
93/100
Multiple reports of startling micro- and macro-dynamics, quick transient response and strong low-volume resolution; reviewers noted high SPL capability and emotional impact well beyond the cabinet size.
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Build Quality
93/100
Consistently praised fit, finish and cabinetry (piano black + wood veneers) with high-quality internal parts and thoughtful enclosure engineering (non-parallel baffles, damping). Reviewers frequently called the enclosures 'jewel-like' and very well made.
Features Connectivity
82/100
Passive bookshelf baseline applied (single-post style binding posts). The 1+1 V5 includes 5-way binding posts and an internal 40Hz high-pass/voicing circuit for protection and baffle-step compensation, which modestly improves practical connectivity/usability without adding DSP or streaming features.
Value for Money
93/100
At ~$3,900 (MSRP reported variably up to $4,500), multiple reviewers judged the speakers to represent outstanding value for their performance and peer-competitive sound; some initial sticker-shock was repeatedly offset by calls that performance justifies the price.
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