Focal Vestia N°1 bookshelf speakers

The new Vestia line succeeds the Focal Chora series of speakers.

The standout feature of the Vestia series revolves around a new speaker driver and a new slate-colored membrane named "Slatefiber," developed by the manufacturer.

The Vestia series comprises 4 models of Hi-Fi speakers: three floor-standing pairs and one bookshelf pair.

They offer a contemporary design quite distinct from the previous range.

FOCAL VESTIA N°1: SLATEFIBER TECHNOLOGY

The Focal Vestia N°1 is a 2-way Bass Reflex speaker. The mid-range and bass frequencies are reproduced by a 16.5 cm speaker equipped with the Slatefiber membrane.

The Slatefiber technology, exclusive to Focal, utilizes recycled non-woven carbon fibers sandwiched between two layers of thermoplastic polymer. These fibers are oriented in the same direction to achieve greater rigidity and better damping. Manufactured in France using sophisticated industrial tools, this lightweight membrane with a slate-like effect provides superior damping and rigidity compared to cellulose membranes.

FOCAL VESTIA N°1: SPEAKERS

The mid-range/bass driver is Bass Reflex loaded with a front-facing port on the Focal Vestia N°1 speaker. It features the Slatefiber membrane made from recycled carbon fibers.

High frequencies are handled by a 25 mm TAM tweeter with an aluminum/magnesium (Al/Mg) alloy dome in an M profile. This Focal exclusive offers a less directional yet precise sound, with remarkable high-frequency bandwidth up to 30 kHz.

The tweeter's suspension, connecting the dome to its mount, uses Poron, a shape-memory material derived directly from Focal's renowned Utopia Beryllium tweeter. This reduces distortion by three times in the critical range between 2000 Hz and 3000 Hz. The inverted dome also helps to limit directivity and enhance spatialization.

FOCAL VESTIA N°1: CABINET

Like the entire Vestia range, the Focal Vestia N°1 has been aesthetically redesigned. The cabinet is made of MDF and covered with a leather-like coating on the front, top, and rear faces of the speaker. The sides feature a wood veneer finish with different wood grain patterns depending on the finish.

The speakers are concealed behind a magnetic fabric grille.

FOCAL VESTIA N°1: INSTALLATION

The Focal Vestia N°1 bookshelf speaker is ideal for rooms ranging from 15 to 25 m².

Connection to the amplifier is via a well-made terminal that accepts bare wire, banana plugs, or spade connectors.

A specific stand for these Focal Vestia N°1 speakers is available as an option. It is angled to align with "Time Alignment," enhancing precision in the soundstage focused on the listener. Alternatively, for economic or practical reasons, they can be placed on stands ranging from 55 to 80 cm in height.

FOCAL VESTIA N°1: TESTING AND LISTENING

The reproduction from this pair of Focal Vestia N°1 bookshelf speakers is well-balanced and stays true to Focal's DNA of neutrality and transparency. The tones are relatively soft, offering excellent clarity and detail to instruments.

The presence and realism of vocals and strings are notable, thanks to the exceptional quality of the tweeter, which integrates seamlessly across the spectrum, providing surprising clarity and transparency.

The bass is richer, more expressive, and notably more dynamic and higher in quality compared to the Chora 806. The upper spectrum sounds smoother and less harsh, providing vibrancy to recordings without being dark or dull.

The Focal Vestia N°1 bookshelf speakers are another superb addition from the French manufacturer, offering excellent musicality even with high-quality integrated amplifiers!

Highly recommended!