Напольная акустика — Bryston Model A1

The Model A1 is a floorstanding speaker of Bryston's A series, announced at CEDIA 2013 and available from the fourth quarter of 2013 at USD 3,250 per pair for the US and Canadian markets. The A series follows the design principles of the Model T but uses smaller woofers, and it also included the A2 at USD 2,395, the A3 at USD 1,995 and the Mini A at USD 1,200.

Key specs that matter

The three-way linear array uses seven drivers - two 1-inch titanium dome tweeters, two 5.25-inch anodised aluminium midrange drivers and three 6.5-inch anodised aluminium woofers. The crossover points are 160 Hz and 2.3 kHz. Frequency response is 31 Hz to 20 kHz within ±3 dB, sensitivity is 88 dB and impedance is 4 ohms, with maximum output of 114 dB at 1 m. The recommended amplifier power reaches up to 400 W. Dual 5-way binding posts allow bi-wiring. The cabinet measures 1,207 x 235 x 432 mm without the feet, and weighs 32 kg.

Engineering and use context

Arranging the drivers as a vertical linear array means that the pairs of tweeters and midranges and the three woofers are stacked in a column, which spreads the output over a taller source than a single set of drivers. Using 6.5-inch woofers instead of the 8-inch units of the Model T keeps the cabinet narrow. The crossover frequencies match those of the original Model T series. All cones are anodised aluminium, and the tweeters use titanium domes, the same material Bryston later kept for the T10 range. Buyers could choose Walnut, Boston Cherry or Black Ash veneer, or a lower-cost vinyl finish. Compared with the Middle T, the A1 has seven drivers instead of four, uses 6.5-inch rather than 8-inch woofers and is 207 mm taller. The speakers are built in Canada.

Pairing

The 4 ohm load needs an amplifier that handles low impedances well, and Bryston's own power amplifiers suit it. With three woofers, most music systems do not need a subwoofer. The dual binding posts support bi-amping. The slim cabinet suits living rooms of about 20 m2, and optional outrigger bases widen its stance on carpet or uneven floors.

Alternatives

The Bryston Model A2 is a smaller A series tower, sold alongside the A1 from its 2013 launch.