AudioVector QR1 SE walnut (pack of 2)

The Audiovector QR1 SE embodies Danish expertise in the design of high-end loudspeakers. This compact bookshelf model delivers a refined, detailed, and musical sound reproduction that is surprising for its category. An evolution of the standard QR1, this Special Edition (SE) benefits from technologies borrowed from Audiovector’s more advanced series, such as a gold-leaf AMT tweeter and cryogenically treated internal components. Its sophisticated design and meticulous finishes allow it to blend seamlessly into various types of interiors, while offering a listening experience appreciated by music enthusiasts.

Cutting-edge technologies for faithful sound reproduction

The technological heart of the QR1 SE lies in its two carefully selected and optimized drivers. The gold-leaf AMT (Air Motion Transformer) tweeter represents a different approach from conventional dome tweeters. Designed according to the principle developed by Dr. Oskar Heil, it uses an ultra-light pleated diaphragm that “compresses” air between its folds like an accordion. This technology offers a large radiating surface, exceptional transient response, and minimal distortion.

The tweeter’s front plate is precisely machined from a single piece of aerospace-grade aluminum, sandblasted, brushed, and then anodized in an elegant tungsten-titanium gray. It features a rose gold-plated dispersion grille that acts as an “S-stop” filter, designed to reduce sibilance and soften potentially harsh highs, much like the pop filters used in recording studios.

The 15.2 cm mid/bass driver uses Audiovector’s exclusive “Pure Piston” technology. It consists of a sandwich cone made of two layers of aluminum bonded by an intermediate layer of fiber and glue. This construction allows the driver to operate as a perfect piston over several octaves, without the distortions usually found in aluminum or diamond membranes. The result is a sound that is warm, precise, and detailed, while remaining dynamic and musical.

Meticulous attention to internal components

What truly sets the SE version apart from the standard QR1 is found inside the speaker. Audiovector has paid particular attention to the crossover components and internal wiring—elements often overlooked but crucial for sound quality.

The specialized polypropylene capacitors, double cryogenically treated and tin-plated, are the result of long listening sessions, measurements, and constant improvements. They provide the AMT tweeters with the best possible conditions to produce smoother, more detailed, and more open highs.

The internal wiring, made of pure copper and cryogenically treated, represents another significant improvement. This process, which involves cooling the copper down to -236 degrees, alters its molecular structure to reduce resistance and improve signal transfer. The result is better dynamics and more detailed reproduction.

The speakers’ internal damping has also been optimized thanks to Nanopore material, previously reserved for Audiovector’s most exclusive and expensive models. The SE series benefits from an optimized damping factor that enhances dynamic and aperiodic performance, contributing to a more natural and fluid musical reproduction.

A balanced and refined sound signature

The QR1 SE stands out for its more balanced and refined sound presentation compared to its predecessor. While the standard QR1 was characterized by forward mids and bright highs, the SE version adopts a more linear approach, with slightly more present bass for a more natural tonal balance.

This evolution should not be seen as “smoothing out” the sound, but rather as the result of Audiovector’s quest for a more linear presentation. The QR1 SE does not draw attention to any specific part of the frequency spectrum to create an artificial effect. This homogeneity and more realistic sense of proportion also extend to the soundstage structure and timing.

In the midrange, the QR1 SE particularly excels, reproducing vocals with remarkable precision and presence. Every nuance of a singer’s expression, character, and skill is faithfully conveyed. In the highs, the tweeter’s sophisticated arrangement provides space, substance, and generous levels of detail in almost equal measure.

Although the QR1 SE does not reach as deep in the bass as some competitors, the bass it produces is solid, well-controlled, rich in detail, and well-defined, allowing for excellent rhythmic expression. If you value agility and precision over sheer impact, you will particularly appreciate this approach.

Flexible integration into your space

Unlike many bookshelf speakers that require precise positioning to perform at their best, the QR1 SE has been designed to adapt to different setups. Its narrow, elongated front bass-reflex port minimizes port noise and offers a sleek design, while allowing the speaker to be placed closer to the rear wall than other models.

This placement flexibility is a considerable advantage, especially in small spaces where ideal speaker positioning is often compromised by practical constraints. The QR1 SE sounds great whether placed on stands or in a bookshelf, and does not need to be far from the walls to deliver optimal performance.

This feature makes it particularly user-friendly in terms of interior design, as the speakers no longer need to be placed far out into the room to sound their best. It’s a major asset for those who want to combine sound quality with the aesthetics of their living space.

Technical Specifications

Technical Specifications

• Design: 2-way
• Frequency response: 44 – 45 kHz
• Gold leaf upper limit: 105 kHz
• Sensitivity: 86 dB/W/m
• Power handling: 160 W
• Impedance: 4 ohms
• Crossover frequency: 3000 Hz

Audio Technology

• Tweeter system: Gold leaf AMT with S-stop
• Woofer: Pure Piston technology, 15.24 cm
• Bass system: Q-port bass reflex
• Bass reflex optimization for enhanced precision

Components and Materials

• In-house designed capacitors:
  • Resulting in crisper, more detailed highs
  • Double cryogenic polypropylene, copper-tinned
  • Developed after extensive listening and analysis sessions
  • Optimized for smoother, more open, and detailed treble
• Metal-cased resistors:
  • Improved heat dissipation
  • Greater accuracy at high power
• Internal wiring:
  • Pure copper, cryogenically treated
  • Enhanced dynamics and detail
• Nanopore Audiovector damping material:
  • Strategically positioned for greater midrange openness
  • Smooth, natural musical reproduction

Speaker Technology

• Dual-magnet Pure Piston technology:
  • Linear operation across multiple octaves
  • Free from typical aluminum/diamond cone distortion
  • Precise, warm, dynamic, and musical sound

Design and Aesthetics

• Gold-plated brass badges on front panels and fabric grilles
• Subtle, elegant, and instantly recognizable design
• Premium cabinet, perfectly finished and proportioned

General Information

• Dimensions (H x W x D): 32.5 x 19 x 23.2 cm