VR-1 Reference Studio Monitors Simbilance
The identical Von Schweikert designed tweeter was implemented in the VR-1's, VR-2's and LCR-15, thus assuring a seamless soundstage from each channel. The very first thing we listened to in these speakers (or any for that matter), was the simbilance of the tweeter. We auditioned the speakers with countless familiar tracks to determine how the tweeter reproduced vocals and instruments. After four months, our first impression proved to be the same as our last. The tweeters found in these speakers surpassed our expectations. They were never lispy or harsh and reproduced high frequencies very accurately and transparently. In fact to our amazement, the tweeter performed similarly as a Vifa silk dome tweeter we are familiar with in many other products, but with perhaps even a bit more detail.

VR-1 Reference Studio Monitors as Bookshelf's - No Subwoofer
The VR-1's may be the perfect speaker for a bookshelf, especially in smaller home theater rooms, for several reasons. Size, beauty (especially in African Hazelwood), and performance. These speakers provided accurate, tight bass to around 70-Hz, with some audible lower frequencies. The mid-range and high frequency was full and lively, and the speakers were easy to drive, thereby making them ideal for smaller amplifier applications such as a midfi integrated amp or receiver. However, don't be afraid to drive these babies with top notch electronics as they will likely squeeze out all of the potential and happily welcome more power.

VR-1 Reference Studio Monitors as Bookshelf's - With the VRS-1 Subwoofer
Coupling the VR-1's with the Von Schweikert VR-S/1 subwoofer proved to be equally as pleasing as the sub added dynamics and tight low frequency bass extension in a region where the VR-1's were unable to deliver. Once again, this petite subwoofer was perfect for a small home theater room application where cabinet size may be more important along with beauty, price and performance.

VR-1 Reference Studio Monitors as Main Surrounds and Back Surrounds

We also audition the VR-1's as surrounds on Reference System 1, which allowed us an opportunity to gain an in depth understanding on their performance. As much of the information from surrounds is mid to high frequencies, especially for those who chose "small" for the default settings, the VR-1's were well equipped for the task. The build quality of the tweeter and mid-range imparted itself on the performance in which the VR-1's reproduced accurate, clear surround information as both main surround (Dolby Digital 5.1) and back surround (Dolby Digital 7.1-EX) applications.

Conclusion

The build quality of the Von Schweikert Audio VR-1 Reference Studio Monitors were well noted and commendable. The VR-1's incorporated quality drivers and electronics coupled with beautiful veneers and craftsmanship. These speakers provided notable performance as bookshelf speakers, and surrounds, thereby making them a great choice for bookshelf speakers which can be used as surrounds or mains (coupled with a subwoofer).  Perhaps the most memorable qualities of these speakers are their warm and intimate tonal balance, and superbly airy, but not sibilant highs. They have a very natural sound quality to them that befits their level of craftsmanship and should certainly be on your audition list if a high quality bookshelf speaker is what you are looking for.