HSU Research HB-1 Bookshelf Speaker Review
HSU Research HB-1 Bookshelf Speaker
Summary
- Product Name: HB-1
- Manufacturer: HSU Research
- Performance Rating:
- Value Rating:
- Review Date: April 12, 2007
- MSRP: $179 (Each - black or maple) right now on sale for $125
- Specifications
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Woofer: 61/2½ treated paper cone woofer with treated cloth surround, flat polycotton spider and high temperature aluminum voice coil
Tweeter: Very high efficiency controlled directivity horn with neodymium magnet and ferro-fluid cooled voice coil.
Crossover: Computer aided, final voicing by Dr. Hsu (i.e., fine tuning by Dr. Hsu to sound good to his ears)
Frequency Range: 60 - 20 kHz
Recommended crossover to subwoofer/mid bass module: 80 Hz
Sensitivity: 92 dB/1m/2.83V rms, half space
Nominal impedance: 6 ohms
Minimum impedance: 4 ohms
Enclosure type: Vented
Enclosure material: 3/4½ MDF
Dimensions: 15½ H x 8½ W x 8½ D
Net Weight: 12.2 pounds, Shipping Weight: 14.5 pounds
Recommended Amplifier Power: 10 - 250 W rms
Pros
- Great for large rooms
- Good for movies
- Excellent price
Cons
- Small “sweet” spot
- Finicky placement for optimal imaging
- Poor aesthetics
Introduction
When a company like HSU Research with a reputation for making quality products (in this case subs) at extremely affordable prices announces a new product, we all sit up at attention. The HB-1 is a horn loaded bookshelf specifically made to fill large rooms. It is designed to be crossed over at 80 Hz which mean that it has the ability to seamlessly blend with a quality subwoofer or two. What we have here is a very good speaker for an entry level system. And by entry level I mean would trounce nearly any other system that people would consider to be “entry”. Easy to setup, easy to power, and easy on the wallet. Paired with one of HSU Research’s subs and you’ve got a winning combination.
