Bookshelf Speaker Reviews

Subwoofer: VTF-2 MK 3
Connections: Line-level LR in, speaker-level LR in/out
Enclosure Type: Vented
Woofer (size in inches, type): 12, carbon fiber impregnated paper cone
Power Rating (watts): 250 RMS BASH
Crossover Bypass: Yes
Available Finishes: Matte Black, Rosewood, Blond Maple Vinyl
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 22 x 15 x 23
Weight (pounds): 80
Price: $499

Speaker: HB-1
Type: Two-way, stand-mount
Tweeter (size in inches, type): 1, aluminum dome, with constant-directivity horn
Woofer (size in inches, type): 6.5, treated paper cone
Nominal Impedance (ohms): 6
Recommended Amp Power (watts): 10–250
Available Finishes: Matte Black, Blond Maple Vinyl
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 15 x 8 x 8
Weight (pounds): 12.2
Price: $125/each

These listings are based on the manufacturer's stated specs; the HT Labs box below indicates the gear's performance on our test bench.

Ratings: HSU Research HB-1 Speaker System

Build Quality: 90
• Neodymium magnet in fluid-cooled tweeter
• Treated paper woofer with treated cloth surround

Value: 97
• The HB-1 is a genuine bargain at $125 each
• Images as well as pricier speaker designs

Features: 94
• Tweeter has one of the best horns I've heard
• Sub has extra port and switch to boost headroom

Performance: 96
• Horn-loaded tweeter plays loud even with budget receiver
• Boosts clarity by reducing room interaction

Ergonomics: 85
• Speakers have keyhole for wall mounting
• With grilles off, horns exude retro tech chic

Overall Rating: 94
Dr. Hsu, master of the budget sub, moves into budget-speaker territory with the HB-1. The sheer clarity he gets out of his horn-loaded tweeter should inspire copycats. It sounds that good. And HSU's top-line (but still affordable) VTF-2 MK 3 subwoofer adds true, deep bass.

General Information
HB-1 Stand-Mount Speaker, $125/each
VTF-2 MK 3 Subwoofer, $499
HSU Research
(800) 554-0150
www.hsuresearch.com
Dealer Locator Code HSU