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Grimm Audio LS1a
The LS1a offers our LS1 series quality at a reduced price. All LS1’s embody our vision that ultimate sonic transparency can only be reached by integrating all components of the playback chain into one system. Only then, we have full control over the interaction of electronics, loudspeaker units and the acoustic behaviour of the cabinet. Grimm Audio’s deep knowledge about circuit design and component choice can then be optimally exploited.
The LS1a possesses all these essential qualities and therefore performs at a true reference level in all key areas. By making some rational choices we were able to offer this quality at a significantly reduced price. Compared to the standard LS1, the LS1a has a non-magnesium woofer, a lighter foot plate, a lacquered cabinet, plus we skipped some of the labor intensive modifications and the individual acoustic calibration of each LS1 cabinet.
What stayed are the low distortion and extremely linear amplitude and phase response (achieved through Computer Aided Calibration during production). And of course the form factor that makes positioning close to a wall possible without wall reflection interference. The LS1a has versatile connections for analog and three digital AES/EBU sources. With the optional USB audio interface, any computer can become your audio source. The LS1r controller or a MU1 music player allow for convenient control of volume and source selection.
An LS1a covers the full frequency range as an elegant two way system. By adding an LS1s or even SB1 subwoofer set, the LS1a becomes a very low distortion three way loudspeaker that can handle all music styles in any size room.
This speaker serves as the ideal reference for artists and music lovers alike.
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Pinpoint imaging and disciplined low‑end control define the Grimm Audio LS1a, pairing a DSP‑controlled frequency curve with super‑low‑distortion NCore amplification for exceptional clarity and punch. Its unidirectional directivity and well‑behaved off‑axis response yield a stable, three‑dimensional soundstage, while rich connectivity and a filtered subwoofer output make it a flexible high‑end monitor for critical listeners.
Pros
- Precise, three-dimensional imaging and stable soundstage driven by controlled directivity (unidirectional down to 250 Hz) and well‑behaved off‑axis response.
- Clean, accurate midrange with low coloration, enabled by DSP tuning and super‑low‑distortion NCore Class D amplification.
- Comprehensive connectivity and subwoofer integration — digital and analog inputs, remote control and a filtered analog subwoofer output for versatile system setups.
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Cons
- Premium pricing places it in very high-end territory, which constrains perceived value for budget-conscious buyers despite excellent engineering.
Sound Quality
88/100
Bass
80/100
DSP-controlled curve, filtered subwoofer output and the inclusion of a sub out suggest controlled low-frequency extension but reliance on a sub for full bandwidth. No driver-size data provided; conservative bookshelf-relative rating applied.
Mid
90/100
DSP curve and very low distortion NCore Class D amplification imply highly accurate, clean midrange with strong vocal presence and low coloration. Specs point to refined midband reproduction suitable for critical listening.
Treble
90/100
‘Well-behaved off-axis response’ and DSP control indicate smooth, extended treble with low risk of harshness or sibilance. Digital/analog input paths and DSP tuning support refined high-frequency behavior.
Soundstage Imaging
92/100
Unidirectional behavior down to 250 Hz and well-behaved off-axis response suggest controlled directivity and stable imaging with precise focus and good depth. DSP control further supports consistent spatial presentation across listening positions.
Dynamics
90/100
Super-low distortion NCore amps and DSP-based management indicate strong micro- and macro-dynamic control and headroom for a bookshelf form factor. High price implies engineering aimed at dynamic performance.
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Build Quality
92/100
High-end feature set, DSP integration and a 5-year limited warranty point to premium components and solid engineering. No explicit construction details provided, so score is inferred from specs and warranty.
Features Connectivity
93/100
Extensive connectivity for a monitor: digital and analog inputs, remote control, DSP, and a filtered analog subwoofer output. Strong feature set for integration into complex systems and for use with subwoofers.
Value for Money
72/100
At a price of 17,250, the LS1a sits in very high price territory; while features and engineering look excellent, absent reviewer consensus or comparisons it’s difficult to justify top-tier value. Likely excellent performance but premium pricing limits value score.
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