Pioneer SP-BS22-LR vs. Triangle Borea BR03

Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Bookshelf Speakers Triangle Borea BR03 Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$160 $630
Dimensions (H × W × D)
12.56” × 7.13” × 8.44”
319mm × 181mm × 214mm
14.96” × 8.11” × 12.36”
380mm × 206mm × 314mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
55-20,000 Hz 46-22,000 Hz
ASR Score
5.0 4.2
ASR Score w/Subwoofer
7.5 6.5
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the realm of budget audiophile bookshelf speakers, the Pioneer SP-BS22-LR and Triangle Borea BR03 spar for supremacy. The Pioneers, designed by acclaimed engineer Andrew Jones, offer a rich, balanced sound with a smooth high end, courtesy of their structured surface woofers and soft dome tweeters. Conversely, the Triangles elevate the experience with a more open soundstage and dynamic range, partly due to their silk dome tweeter and cellulose paper cone. While Pioneers excel in delivering great value and cohesiveness, Triangles attract with their detailed highs and aesthetic flair, albeit at a higher price point.

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to setting up an intimate and engaging listening space, the choice of speakers can make all the difference. The Pioneer SP-BS22-LR and the Triangle Borea BR03 are two bookshelf speakers that often come up in discussions for their remarkable performance relative to their price points. Created by renowned designer Andrew Jones, the Pioneer SP-BS22-LR promises excellent sound quality for the budget-conscious audiophile. In contrast, the Triangle Borea BR03, hailing from a brand well-respected in the high-fidelity audio community, offers a taste of French acoustic elegance that aims to elevate the listening experience.

The Design Philosophy

Pioneer SP-BS22-LR speakers are imbued with a level of design sophistication that belies their modest price. They feature a curved cabinet design that not only presents a visually appealing aesthetic but also serves to reduce standing sound waves inside the cabinet, thus minimizing audio distortion. The 4-inch structured surface woofer and 1-inch high-efficiency soft dome tweeter are engineered to deliver a frequency response that’s both smooth and expansive.

Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Bookshelf Speakers
Pioneer SP-BS22-LR arrow (at Amazon.com)

In contrast, the Triangle Borea BR03 adopts a more straightforward approach with its rectilinear form. But don't let the traditional boxy shape fool you; these speakers boast a modern touch with their wood veneer finishes and sleek, magnetic grilles. The BR03's design is both a visual and tactile joy, promising a premium feel that's often sought after in higher-end models. Equipped with a 6.5-inch mid-woofer and a 1-inch EFS silk dome tweeter, the BR03 is designed to offer a wider frequency range and a more substantial low-end presence.

Acoustic Performance

The Pioneer SP-BS22-LR speakers are known for their clear and balanced sound profile. Their strength lies in a coherent and focused audio presentation that brings out the subtleties in vocals and instruments with a level of precision that is quite remarkable for speakers at this price point. The bass response is tight and controlled, though it may lack the depth that some listeners desire for genres heavy on low frequencies.

Triangle Borea BR03 Bookshelf Speakers
Triangle Borea BR03 arrow (at Amazon.com)

On the flip side, the Triangle Borea BR03 takes the performance up a notch with an impressively dynamic range and a more pronounced bass response, thanks to its larger mid-woofer. The silk dome tweeter ensures that the highs are not only detailed but also convey a certain airiness that can make listening to high-resolution audio tracks a truly immersive experience. The soundstage they project is wide and convincing, with an ability to create an almost tangible musical presence in the room.

Compatibility and Versatility

The Pioneer SP-BS22-LR, with its sensitivity of 85 dB and nominal impedance of 6 ohms, requires a decent amplifier to drive them to their full potential. They are forgiving with room placement, and their performance is consistent across various genres, making them a versatile choice for the everyday listener who enjoys a mix of music styles.

In comparison, the Triangle Borea BR03, with a sensitivity of 90 dB and an impedance of 8 ohms, is easier to drive and can work well with a wider range of amplifiers, from modestly powered integrated amps to more robust setups. They are slightly more demanding regarding placement to achieve the optimal sound, but their ability to scale with higher-quality electronics makes them a suitable option for audiophiles looking to evolve their system over time.

Ultimately, the choice between the Pioneer SP-BS22-LR and Triangle Borea BR03 speakers will depend on the listener's preferences, room characteristics, and system components. The Pioneers offer excellent value and performance for those looking to dip their toes into the world of high-fidelity sound without breaking the bank. The Triangles, while a step up in terms of price, provide an audio experience that's a class apart, with the potential to satisfy the discerning ears of an audiophile seeking a rich and detailed sound. Regardless of which path you choose, both speakers are testament to the fact that great sound can indeed come from small packages.


Check Current Prices:

Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Bookshelf Speakers
Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Bookshelf Speakers
Triangle Borea BR03 Bookshelf Speakers
Triangle Borea BR03 Bookshelf Speakers
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

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Disclaimer: the speaker data listed on this website are correct to the best of our knowledge, but we do not guarantee the accuracy of the data. Please double-check any measurements with the manufacturer before making a final purchasing decision.