What Hi Fi Sound and Vision 20 JUN 2008

PSB Alpha B1

£ 100 3

* * *

The PSBs’ balanced sound isn’t enough for them to stand out in a crowded market

For
Balanced, smooth and inoffensive performance; chunkier and better made than you might expect for the money
Against
Lack the detail and definition of the best in class; treble is a little inaccurate

Canadian company PSB has been building speakers for well over 30 years now. We’ve seen very little of its output in that time, but the arrival of the entry-level Alpha B1 speakers into our listening rooms might signal that’s about to change.

Firstly, these are solid and substantial boxes for the money, and once you’ve removed the grilles, they look pretty decent. Positioned on some good stands (Soundstyle Z2s will do nicely) and given room to breathe, the B1s perform respectably.

Try the rather beautiful Clowns by Goldfrapp, and you’ll appreciate the PSBs’ balanced and smooth presentation as the calming melody flows into the room.

Soundstage is a little muddled
However, these speakers aren’t perfect. The first problem is that the soundstage is a little muddled, with there being just a touch of difficulty in making out individual elements. It’s also true that the bass, while weighty, is somewhat lacking in punch.

What this all adds up to is a performance that just isn’t as detailed as it could be. That means, despite a balanced, inoffensive musical delivery, the PSBs can’t win out in what is a very competitive entry-level class.