Monitor Audio Silver S1

I purchased Monitor Audio Silver S1 bookshelf speakers in order to replace a set of Mission manufactured speakers supplied with a Denon DF-101 system. Luckily, the reasonably large selection of finishes came in Warm Beech, which matched the existing furniture remarkably well. I also binned the standard speaker cable and splashed out 30 quid on some Odyssey cabling.

The build quality of the box and front grille is exceptional and nicely complimented by styling subtle enough to suit almost any environment. It did take quite a long time to run the things in however (about a weeks worth of play) yet even from the very first time they were connected; they were in a different league than their predecessors.

Although there is potential for bi-amplication, having four connections at the rear of each unit, I didn't feel that the marginal increase in loudness and quality was worth spending even more money on yet. As it is they sound great. At low volumes (i.e. When watching the TV) they are crisp and detailed, but they really come into their own when the dial is tuned up higher. There is warmth where required, enough bass to satisfy (although I do have a separate sub-woofer) and at 80W RMS each, they are plenty loud enough for home listening. I've put all sorts of music through them, from Jay-Z to Fear-Factory, from Lisa Lashes to Mozart and I was not disappointed. Every instrument is picked out and vocal are spookily realistic.

At a 'respectful' noise level and from a distance of 2.5-3metres, the music flows, envelopes and brings new clarity to songs I had long stopped listening too.

At 300 pounds they are expensive for 12" tall bookshelf speakers but if you're limited by space, then there is little out there that can compare.