Anyone who enjoys walking the path (slightly) less travelled is strongly advised to check out the Audiovector QR-1 – it’s a design with across-the-board appeal

The QR1 is part of the new breed of affordable compacts that asks, no demands, to be taken seriously. It doesn’t just offer a taste of the high end in small portions. Without question, the Audiovector QR1 ups the ante for any competitor that hopes to compete in the $2k segment. Its allure lies in the way it minimizes the limitations of the compact breed, while magnifying the strengths. It’s gorgeous, refined, wildly musical. It’s no exaggeration for me to say that the QR1 provided about as much satisfaction and sheer enjoyment as I have ever experienced in a small speaker of this specification. Enthusiastically recommended.

The QR 1 delivers an awful lot from a surprisingly small package – it's energetic, musical and accurate sounding, with a sophistication generally reserved for more expensive purchasing propositions. Refined beyond its price point, it boasts really classy treble and a clean midband that's hard not to love. Yet it is fun and feisty, too – much more than you'd expect from a relatively inexpensive design. Consider also the excellent build quality; right from the unboxing, you know you're in the presence of a well-built product with very fine fit and finish. Even up against its latest rivals, this dinky Dane does a remarkable job. I dare say there are many years of life left in this little loudspeaker, so do hear it if you can.

The ‘mini monitors’ of yore always carried an appeal out of all proportion to their size. The sophistication and high-end sensibilities of today’s contenders arguably generate an even stronger allure. If you want to know why, an audition date with the QR 1 should provide all the answers.