Definitive Technology Bipolar BP-8040ST 5.1-Channel Speaker System (TPV 108)

Bipolar Design Gives Huge Soundscapes

CONCLUSION

Consider this system if:

• You want a well-priced system that offers a hearty, full-bodied sound with potent dynamics, and that produces huge soundstages with well-focused images of performers (or sound effects) upon that stage.
• Consider this system, too, if you prize speakers that offer natural and almost “organic” warmth (as over and against strict textbook accuracy).
• Finally, note that this particular system strikes many that see it as being an almost perfect size—big enough to handle large living rooms, yet compact enough not to register as being bulky or visually overbearing.

Look further if:

• You are a true, strict-interpretation accuracy maven or are seeking the highest levels of detail and transparency possible (in which case you may want to save up for Definitive’s excellent, but also more costly, Mythos ST or STS systems).
• But be careful what you ask for, since few speaker systems in this price range can match this Definitive rig’s expansive soundstaging capabilities.

Ratings (relative to comparably-priced surround speaker systems)

Transparency and Focus: 8.5
Imaging and Soundstaging: 10
Tonal Balance: 8.5
Dynamics: 9
Bass Extension: 10
Bass Pitch Definition: 9.5
Bass Dynamics: 9.5
Value: 9.5

BOTTOM LINE

The BP-8040ST offers an immediately likable and accessible sound with great natural warmth, expansive soundstaging, well-focused imaging, and really impressive bass output.

SPECS & PRICING

Definitive BP-8040ST 3-way, six-driver bipolar floorstanding speaker
Driver complement: Two 1-inch aluminum dome tweeters, three 3.5-inch BDSS mid/bass drivers, one 8-inch bass driver, and two 8-inch passive radiators.
Frequency response: 25Hz – 30 kHz
Sensitivity: 92 dB
Impedance: 8 ohms
Dimensions (HxWxD): 39” x 5.625” x 11.625” (main speaker without stabilizer feet installed)
Weight: 40 lbs. each
Warranty: Speaker components 5 years parts and labor, active electronic components 3 years parts and labor
Price: $1498/pair

Definitive CS-8040HD 2-way, three-driver, center-channel speaker
Driver complement: One 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter, two 4.5-inch BDSS mid/bass drivers, one 5-inch x 10-inch passive radiator
Frequency response: 40Hz – 30 kHz
Sensitivity: 92 dB
Impedance: 8 ohms
Dimensions (HxWxD): 5.75” x 21.125” x 12”
Weight: 20 lbs. each
Warranty: 5 years, parts and labor
Price: $499 each

Definitive SR-804BP 2-way, four-driver, bipolar surround speaker
Driver complement: Two 1-inch aluminum dome tweeters, two 3.5-inch mid/bass driver
Frequency response: 50Hz – 30 kHz
Sensitivity: 92 dB
Impedance: 8 ohms
Dimensions (HxWxD): 9.5” x 7.812” x 5.375”
Weight: 8 lbs. each
Warranty: 5 years, parts and labor
Price: $498/pair

System Price: $2595 as tested

Definitive Technology
(800) 228-7148
www.definitivetech.com