I’m a bit behind on Mikipedia’s podcasts so only yesterday did I learn that BeoLab 17 is entering its final round of production and will soon be discontinued. I thought it may be nice to discuss how wonderful a speaker it is, the good memories we’ve made listening to the 17s... and even what may replace it and when.
A moment ago I listened to Fiona Apple’s CRIMINAL on my BL17s and was blown away by how well it handled the strong bass lines in that song. Before I owned a pair, I remember watching John at B&O Manchester’s YouTube review of them in which he claimed they are both seriously underrated and that he prefers them sonically to the BL18. Now, as an owner of both speakers, I understand what he means.
How can such a small speaker perform so well? Pick one up and its substantial weight tips you off as to what to expect when you plug it in. Even without the acoustic lens, the treble seems crisp and clear and the mids and lows punch much lower than one would expect given its size.
Is it beautiful? To my eye, yes. Can it compete as a design icon with the 18? No, particularly with wood lamellas. But the 18s do lack the low-end grunt the 17s possess although the acoustic lens and tweeter produce very, very sweet highs that are less dependent upon room placement.
The 17s are a surprisingly good speaker in a small package and I feel very lucky to have a pair. I wonder how, and when, B&O will try to improve upon it. An updated version of BeoLab 3 with an acoustic lens and at least a 6” driver might be something!
Geoff and team, you did a super job with BeoLab 17. What a great run. Thank you!
