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Grimm Audio LS1be
This product is soon to be discontinued, only few models left.
Our flagship product LS1be takes the LS1 performance to the next level. Our aim was to improve transparency even further by focussing on “authority, control and flow”. To achieve this we worked on lowering distortion and extending the linear audio band. We added a new Beryllium tweeter, which was co-developed with Seas. It extends the frequency range and has 9 dB less distortion than our original tweeter. Furthermore we lowered jitter, improved the power supplies, employed some exclusive component selection and decided on silver power supply wiring for the finishing touch.
At the low end of the frequency spectrum, we obtained an even bigger improvement. Our newly developed Digital Motional Feedback (SB1) subwoofer has an impressive 30 dB lower distortion, which means the bass area is now just as transparent as the mid and treble.
Of course, just like with our other LS1’s, the LS1be frequency response is linearized through smart use of DSP via a Computer Aided Calibration process during production.
The LS1be can be controlled by the MU1 music player, or by the LS1r controller and the LS1i USB interface, well known from the LS1. The cabinet can be ordered in a stylish ‘Hi-Macs’ artificial stone finish or in our traditional bamboo veneer look.
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Grimm Audio LS1be — precision-focused active monitors with refined directivity
The LS1be stakes its claim on controlled, consistent sound through a combination of a unique wide-dispersion beryllium tweeter, DSP-controlled voicing and unidirectional behavior down to 250 Hz. The result is a speaker that foregrounds razor-sharp imaging, airy treble and a coherent midrange while keeping low-frequency behavior tight and tunable via a filtered subwoofer output for the matching SB1.
Active electronics are at the heart of the design: super-low-distortion NCore Class D amplification, DSP crossover and digital/analog inputs (including USB support for DSD/DXD) give the LS1be modern connectivity and precise tonal control. The speaker’s well-behaved off-axis response preserves timbre across listening positions so ensembles and vocals remain natural as the sweet spot widens.
In practice this translates to high marks for soundstage and treble detail, exemplary imaging stability and punchy, controlled dynamics—attributes that suit critical listeners, nearfield mastering setups and discerning music systems seeking an integrated, future-proof monitor. Backed by a 5-year limited warranty and extensive feature set, the LS1be presents a compelling option for anyone prioritizing precision, consistency and connectivity in an active monitor.
Pros
- Exceptional imaging and stable soundstage thanks to unidirectional behavior down to 250 Hz and DSP tailoring.
- Airy, extended treble from the unique wide-dispersion beryllium tweeter paired with well-behaved off-axis response.
- Integrated active electronics (NCore amps + DSP) and high-resolution USB playback (DSD/DXD) deliver low distortion, strong dynamics and modern connectivity.
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Cons
- Premium, active implementation implies a higher-cost positioning and the need for a complementary sub (SB1) for the deepest extension.
Sound Quality
92/100
Bass
90/100
DSP control and filtered subwoofer output indicate well-integrated bass that is controlled and tunable; NCore amps provide low distortion drive. The spec sheet suggests competent low-frequency authority but the presence of a dedicated sub output (SB1) implies the deepest extension may be intended to come from a sub, so scores are generous but conservative for absolute extension.
Mid
92/100
DSP controlled frequency curve and well-behaved off-axis response support accurate, consistent midrange timbre and vocal presence across listening positions. Active electronics and high-quality drivers (beryllium tweeter for the top end) plus DSP tuning imply very coherent crossover behavior through the midband.
Treble
93/100
Unique wide-dispersion beryllium tweeter and well-behaved off-axis response point to extended, detailed treble with good air and controlled directivity. DSP control reduces risk of harshness and allows a refined presentation.
Soundstage Imaging
94/100
Unidirectional behavior down to 250 Hz and a specified well-behaved off-axis response indicate strong imaging stability and controlled directivity, yielding precise image focus and consistent width/depth. DSP tailoring further supports coherent staging and consistent tonal balance across angles.
Dynamics
90/100
Super low distortion NCore class D power amps and active DSP imply excellent transient response, micro-dynamic detail, and controlled macro dynamics for most listening levels. Some headroom limits relative to very large reference open-baffle or horn systems are possible given likely driver and enclosure scale.
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Build Quality
92/100
Active design with integrated electronics, NCore amplification, and a 5-year limited warranty suggest a high level of engineering and component quality. The attention to controlled dispersion and DSP tuning implies careful cabinet and driver engineering, though physical material/finish details were not provided.
Features Connectivity
95/100
Extensive connectivity: digital and analog inputs, USB with DSD/DXD support, remote control, DSP, and a filtered analog subwoofer output for SB1. These built-in active features and high-resolution playback capabilities position the LS1be very highly for modern connectivity and system integration.
Value for Money
80/100
Advanced features and active implementation imply a premium positioning; without a supplied price or independent reviewer commentary on cost relative to peers, value is judged cautiously. The 5-year warranty and integrated electronics improve perceived long-term value.
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