Acoustic Energy AE1 Classic Nearfield Monitor
Designed from the outset as a semi-professional monitor, the AE1 has found favor with both professionals and audiophiles alike.
Such a rare achievement is due to the painstaking attention to detail in
the design and construction of all components. The original AE1 was the first loudspeaker to incorporate a
spun aluminum cone woofer
(European Patent EP19870310904).
The AE1 Classic
continues to use this unique driver technology along with refinements in cabinet, crossovers and baffle design.
Despite its diminutive size, the AE1 Classic reproduces complex, dynamic material as faithful as the award winning original,
and offers the soundstage, depth and breadth of much larger loudspeakers. The extremely rigid design and high power handling
creates a sophisticated blend of clarity, speed and dynamics that once again sets the standard for small box loudspeakers in both the studio and the home.
A Brief History of the AE1
The original AE1 was introduced in 1988, and was the first truly accurate, high power
compact nearfield monitor. Although designed primarily for professionals, it soon became
a favorite of audiophiles. In a review at the time, Stereophile magazine wrote: "I have to say that the AE1 is one of the finest, most
transparent cone speakers I have heard". It continued to garner rave reviews, including
winning the British Hi-Fi Award for Best Speaker in 1991 and 1992.
The AE1 remained a favorite of recording engineers throughout the 1990's. Examples of
user's included Abbey Road Studios, and musicians such as Seal and James Taylor.
Nigel Godrich
used them to mix Radiohead's "OK Computer".
A MkII version was introduced in the early 1990s. Following 3 years of extensive research, a MkIII
version was introduced, and is the current incarnation. Nevertheless, many mourned the passing
of the original, and so AE decided to bring it back in the form of the AE1 Classic.
The AE1 Classic is painstakingly manufactured in small batches at AE's factory in the UK.
It is designed to be as close to the original as possible, including a new tweeter that
matches the sound of admired first generation original.
A high quality power amplifier rated between 100W and 200W is recommended.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: We are an authorized dealer for this product in North America.
For other locations, please visit the
Acoustic Energy website for a list of dealers in your country
Last updated May 21, 2008
