Audience ClairAudient 1+1 V5 Review

In the realm of high-end audio, where size often correlates with performance, the Audience ClairAudient 1+1 V5 stands as a testament to the power of innovation and precision engineering. This diminutive yet formidable loudspeaker defies expectations, delivering a sonic experience that rivals—and in some aspects surpasses—much larger competitors. Designed for audiophiles who demand both elegance and performance, the ClairAudient 1+1 V5 is a marvel of modern audio technology.

Design and Build: A Jewel of Craftsmanship

The ClairAudient 1+1 V5 is a visual and tactile delight. Its compact dimensions—8 inches in height, 9.75 inches in depth, and 6 inches in width—make it an ideal fit for small spaces, yet its build quality exudes sophistication. The enclosure, finished in high-gloss piano black, is a study in minimalist elegance. The non-parallel front and rear baffles reduce internal standing waves, while proprietary damping materials further enhance acoustic purity.

The speaker’s bi-pole design features two active full-range drivers—one on the front and one on the rear—wired in phase. This configuration not only expands the soundstage but also cancels vibrations, ensuring a cleaner, more immersive listening experience. Complementing these drivers are side-mounted passive radiators, which extend the bass response without the need for traditional ports.

Technology: The Heart of Innovation

At the core of the ClairAudient 1+1 V5 lies the proprietary A3S2-16 full-range driver. This titanium-coned marvel boasts a dual-gap motor, a 1-inch voice coil, and a total moving mass of just 2.5 grams. With a piston excursion of 11mm (5.5mm in each direction), it delivers remarkable dynamics and resolution, rivaling drivers found in much larger speakers.

The absence of a crossover network is a defining feature of the ClairAudient 1+1 V5. By eliminating this traditional component, Audience ensures seamless frequency transitions and avoids phase distortions. A built-in 40Hz high-pass filter protects the drivers from damage during low bass passages, while a voicing circuit smooths out the frequency response, particularly in the midrange and treble.

Sound Performance: A Symphony in Miniature

The ClairAudient 1+1 V5’s sound signature is nothing short of extraordinary. Its midrange is lush and detailed, rendering vocals and acoustic instruments with lifelike precision. The treble is airy and extended, free from harshness or fatigue, making it ideal for extended listening sessions. While the bass may not reach subterranean depths, it is tight, controlled, and surprisingly impactful, thanks to the passive radiators.

In terms of dynamics, the ClairAudient 1+1 V5 excels. It handles both micro-dynamics and macro-dynamics with aplomb, capturing the subtle nuances of a solo piano piece as effortlessly as the explosive crescendos of a symphony. The bi-pole design creates a three-dimensional soundstage, with instruments and vocals precisely positioned in space. The result is an immersive, holographic listening experience that belies the speaker’s compact size.

Versatility and Placement: Adaptable to Any Space

The ClairAudient 1+1 V5 shines in a variety of settings. Its near-field capabilities make it perfect for desktop setups, while its ability to fill larger rooms with sound ensures it can serve as the centerpiece of a dedicated listening space. Careful placement is key; positioning the speakers a few feet from walls allows the bi-pole design to fully realize its potential, creating a sense of depth and space that is truly remarkable

Conclusion: A Benchmark in Compact Audio

The Audience ClairAudient 1+1 V5 is a triumph of design and engineering. It combines cutting-edge technology with meticulous craftsmanship to deliver a listening experience that is both intimate and expansive. For audiophiles seeking high-end performance in a compact form factor, the ClairAudient 1+1 V5 is an unparalleled choice. It is a speaker that not only meets but exceeds expectations, proving that great things truly do come in small packages.

Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or a newcomer to high-fidelity audio, the ClairAudient 1+1 V5 invites you to rediscover your music with clarity, coherence, and emotion. It is, without a doubt, one of the finest compact loudspeakers money can buy.