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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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Professional Reviews 88/100
Nicely Roasted
Sound Quality
88/100
Build Quality
92/100
Features Connectivity
93/100
Value for Money
72/100
Grimm Audio’s LS1a pairs controlled directivity with DSP precision for a lucid, stable presentation built around clean midrange, smooth treble and sharply focused imaging. Digital and analog inputs, remote operation, filtered subwoofer output, and low-distortion NCore amplification make this an exceptionally flexible active monitor, while premium engineering and a five-year warranty reinforce its serious high-end intent.
Pros
DSP control, well-behaved off-axis response, and integrated low-distortion amplification support precise imaging and refined tonal balance.
SOUND QUALITY PERFORMANCE 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.
Assessments of Build Quality, Usability, and Overall Propositions.
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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Authorized dealers for Grimm Audio LS1a
- The Audio Association — in-store — Anaheim, California, United States (website)
- American Sound — in-store — Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada (website)
- Atelier 13 Audio — in-store — Forest Hills, Tennessee, United States (website)
- Audio Archon — online and in-store — Libertyville, Illinois, United States (website)
- Audio Connection — online and in-store — Verona, New Jersey, United States (website)
- Audio Elation — in-store — Lolo, Montana, United States (website)
- Audio Excellence (CH) — Switzerland (website)
- Audio Gallery — online and in-store — Las Rozas de Madrid, Comunidad de Madrid, Spain (website)
- Audio Philosophy — in-store — Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States (website)
- Audio Vision San Francisco — online and in-store — San Francisco, California, United States (website)
and 70 more verified dealers