ELAC ARB51 Navis Powered Bookshelf Speakers Review

The ELAC ARB51 Navis Powered Bookshelf Speakers are an offering from the reputable audio brand ELAC, known for producing high-fidelity speakers. These powered bookshelf speakers distinguish themselves by providing a convenient, all-in-one audio solution that eliminates the need for a separate amplifier or receiver. The design is sleek and modern, making it a good fit for various living spaces without drawing too much attention away from the interior decor.

One of the unique features of the ELAC ARB51 is their tri-amped design, with each driver receiving its own dedicated amplifier. This results in a more precise control over each frequency band, potentially leading to better sound quality with more clarity and less distortion. Moreover, with a combined power of 300 watts per speaker, the ARB51 Navis can deliver robust sound levels suitable for both casual listening and more critical audio experiences.

Connectivity is an important consideration for powered speakers, and the ELAC ARB51 Navis offers several options. It includes analog inputs, a coaxial input, and an optical digital input, providing versatility in terms of connecting various audio sources. However, one notable omission is built-in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi streaming capabilities, which are commonly found in other powered speakers. Users looking for wireless connectivity would have to invest in an external adapter.

Related Content

Sound Quality and Performance

When it comes to sound quality, the ELAC ARB51 Navis Powered Bookshelf Speakers are praised for their balanced and natural sound profile. The speakers are designed with a custom concentric driver that combines a 4-inch aluminum midrange driver and a 1-inch soft dome tweeter. This setup aims to create a more coherent soundstage with precise imaging that audiophiles often seek. The 5.25-inch aluminum woofer further ensures that the bass response is tight and controlled without overpowering the mids and highs.

Despite their advantages, some users may find that the bass response is not as deep as larger floor-standing speakers or systems that include a dedicated subwoofer. While suitable for many genres of music, those who favor heavy bass might be left wanting more. It's also worth noting that the sound may vary depending on the acoustics of the room and positioning of the speakers.

Another aspect to consider is the ease of use. The ELAC ARB51's settings are fairly straightforward, but they lack some of the user-friendly features such as app control or voice assistant integration found in competing products. Users looking for a more traditional set-it-and-forget-it approach will appreciate the simplicity, while those who prefer modern conveniences might see this as a downside.

Comparing to Similar Products

In terms of competition, potential buyers might consider similar products such as the KEF LSX Wireless Music System or the Audioengine HD6 Wireless Speakers. These alternatives provide built-in wireless connectivity which is missing from the ELAC ARB51. However, they may not match the power output or the tri-amplified design of the ARB51, which is a significant factor for some users.

Price is another important factor when comparing these bookshelf speakers to their peers. The ELAC ARB51 Navis sits at a higher price point than some other options in the market. This could be justified by their superior build quality and sound performance, but budget-conscious buyers may lean towards more affordable choices that still offer good audio experiences.

In conclusion, the ELAC ARB51 Navis Powered Bookshelf Speakers are a solid choice for audiophiles seeking high-quality sound in a compact and convenient package. While they boast impressive specs like tri-amp configuration and a custom concentric driver, considerations such as lack of wireless connectivity and price point should be taken into account. Buyers must weigh these factors alongside their personal preferences and needs to determine if the ELAC ARB51 Navis is the right fit for their audio setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the ELAC ARB51 Navis be used as standalone speakers without a separate amplifier?

Absolutely, the ELAC ARB51 Navis speakers are a shining example of the modern active speaker paradigm, meaning they come with built-in amplification. This all-in-one approach eliminates the need for an external amplifier or receiver. Each speaker houses its own customized amplifiers, specifically designed to power its individual driver configuration. This design ensures that the amplifiers and drivers are perfectly matched, providing an optimized listening experience right out of the box.

Does the ELAC ARB51 Navis support wireless streaming or Bluetooth connectivity?

The ELAC ARB51 Navis speakers are primarily focused on delivering high-fidelity audio and as such, they are not equipped with built-in wireless streaming capabilities or Bluetooth. However, ELAC does offer a separate module, the Discovery Connect Wireless Transmitter, which can be purchased to enable wireless streaming with these speakers. By adding this module, you can stream audio from a variety of sources while maintaining the high-quality sound that the Navis are known for.

How do the ELAC ARB51 Navis perform in terms of soundstage and imaging?

The ELAC ARB51 Navis are often praised for their exceptional soundstage and imaging capabilities. The meticulous design and engineering behind these bookshelf speakers allow them to create a wide and immersive soundstage that can fill a room with ease. When properly positioned, they offer precise imaging, presenting music with clarity and depth, and allowing listeners to pinpoint the spatial location of instruments and vocals within the recording. This makes them a favorite among audiophiles who appreciate the fine details and nuances of a well-recorded piece of music.