The 2011 Editors' Choice Awards: Loudspeakers under $1500 (TAS 211)

Klipsch RF-82 II

$1198
klipsch.com
This inexpensive, medium-sized floorstander uses a compression driver, a 90° x 60° horn, and two mid/bass drivers as the building blocks of a high-sensitivity speaker. The RF-82 II has fantastic dynamic range and a full bottom end. In need of careful toe-in for an optimal blend of drivers, it favors rock, pop, and soundtracks over jazz and classical music.
Reviewed by Kirk Midtskog in this issue

PSB Image T6

$1199
psbspeakers.com
Paul Barton’s latest creation again sets a standard for performance in this class. The T6’s dual 6.5" woofers deliver realistic bass down to 35Hz (–3dB) coupled to a very clean, pure, and transparent midrange. The bass tends toward the warm and “bloomy” rather than dry and tight side. The treble is clean and extended, albeit with a bit of excess energy. The T6’s low-diffraction cabinet has paid off in outstanding imaging; the T6s easily disappear into the soundfield.
Reviewed by Robert E. Greene, Issue 200

Spendor S3/5R

$1395
bluebirdmusic.com
Now in its third iteration, designated by the “R” suffix, the S3/5R boasts greater neutrality, for a midrange tonal balance that is very natural. Deep bass is wholly lacking, midbass is modest, and loudness levels are extremely limited, meaning that small‑room applications and moderate playback levels are mandated. Within these restrictions, a very accurate and musical subcompact monitor.
Reviewed by Paul Seydor, Issue 182

Electrocompaniet PSB 1

$1450
electrocompaniet.com/usa
The two-way PSB 1 impresses with its top-to-bottom coherence and ability to “speak” with a single voice. Dynamic scaling, transient speed, and image focus are also strengths. The speaker’s okay but not great with soundstage depth, and of course its bass won’t shake the house with large-scale music. It works well on a stand or shelf, thanks to tiny foam port plugs supplied for the latter application.
Reviewed by WG, Issue 209