If you’re on the hunt for a solid upgrade to your home audio, compact speakers are usually high on the list. The Theva N°1 is one that keeps popping up, thanks to its blend of sleek looks and Focal’s reputation for thoughtful engineering.
- Exclusive Slatefiber technology: dynamic listening and consistency across the Theva range
- Compact, sleek and harmonious design to suit any room
- Optional stand available, tilted for Time Alignment
Plenty of listeners call out the Theva N°1 for its warm, full sound—a nice break from the sometimes sterile vibe of studio monitors. The small size is another plus, so you don’t have to rearrange your whole room. People seem to appreciate the understated design too, and the way it keeps the audio balanced across different uses.
Heads up: these are passive speakers, so you’ll need an amp. There’s also an optional stand, which could help with getting the sound just right if you’re picky about positioning.
Overview of Focal Theva N°1 Loudspeakers
Compact bookshelf speakers like the Theva N°1 hit a sweet spot between style and practicality, especially for smaller rooms. The aluminum/magnesium tweeter and Slatefiber bass/mid driver are at the heart of the design, aiming for clear treble and balanced bass.
A lot of folks say the sound signature is warm but not muddy, which is a relief if you’re used to clinical monitors. The rear vent keeps the speaker compact, though it does mean you have to think about placement. Build quality gets nods, but the finish is a bit reserved—maybe not as flashy as some pricier options.
Pros:
- Clear, balanced sound
- Compact size
- Versatile compatibility
Cons:
- Rear vent can limit placement
- Not many color choices
Exclusive Slatefiber Technology
One of the more interesting things about these speakers is the Slatefiber bass/mid driver. Focal developed this material to balance rigidity and lightness, and some listeners say it brings a punchy, well-controlled sound.
Feedback suggests Slatefiber drivers deliver detail and consistency, especially in the mids and lows. Still, there are comments that, while the sound is clear, the difference from more traditional materials isn’t always night and day.
Pros of Slatefiber:
- Strong midrange clarity
- Consistent, controlled bass response
Cons: - Improvements are subtle in some setups
- Not always a huge leap from standard drivers
If you’re the type who obsesses over materials, you might notice the edge. For most, it’s a nice touch but not a revolution.
Aluminium/Magnesium TNF Tweeter
The Aluminium/Magnesium TNF tweeter is another highlight here. It’s designed to keep high frequencies crisp but not harsh—a tough balance. Most users find the treble smooth and easy on the ears, even after hours of listening.
Upper-range presence is there, making vocals and instruments pop without getting shrill. Some users say the detail is clean but maybe not as lively as pricier, more advanced tweeters. If you’re after neutral, reliable highs, this tweeter gets the job done without drawing too much attention.
Compact and Elegant Design
These bookshelf speakers really do keep a minimal footprint, so you can tuck them onto shelves or tables without hassle. The black finish and simple shape fit in just about anywhere, whether your place is modern or more classic.
Some people love how subtle the design is, while others might wish for something with a bit more flair. The rear vent keeps the look slim, but you’ll have to watch out for wall placement.
Design Takeaways:
- Easy to fit on most surfaces
- Blends in with different decor
- Won’t dominate the room visually
If you want something that works in the background and doesn’t demand attention, these speakers are a safe bet.
Optimized Rear Vent for Enhanced Placement
The rear vent is supposed to help with airflow and keep bass tight, even if you’re placing the speakers near a wall. That said, some folks find that putting them too close to the wall can mess with the bass, so it’s worth experimenting with placement.
Pros:
- Maintains clarity with smart positioning
- Flexible for different furniture setups
Cons:
- Bass can suffer if shoved against a wall
- Might take some trial and error to dial in
Optional Tilted Stand for Time Alignment
There’s an optional tilted stand if you want to tweak the sound direction. Tilting the speakers can help the sound hit your ears more directly, which is handy if you’re sitting further away or at ear level.
The stands aren’t included, so you’ll have to shell out extra if you want that perfect setup. Not everyone will care, but if you’re picky about sound staging, it’s something to think about.
User Experience in Small Spaces
Getting good sound in a small room can be tricky, but the Theva N°1’s size makes it easier to squeeze onto a shelf or desk. Most users don’t have big placement complaints, though leaving a little space from the wall helps the sound breathe.
The finish is low-key, so the speakers don’t stick out. In apartments or small living rooms, people say the sound is full but not overwhelming. If you’re after booming bass in a big space, you might run into some limits.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Compact build fits just about anywhere—great for small rooms or desktops.
- Warm, dynamic sound that works across genres, according to users.
- Sleek design and optional stand make it adaptable for different setups.
Table: Notable Strengths
| Feature | Advantage |
|---|---|
| Slatefiber tech | Natural and well-balanced audio profile |
| TNF Tweeter | Clear and detailed treble |
| Build Quality | Sturdy, attractive, and blends with decor |
Cons
- Optional stands mean extra cost and setup if you want the best positioning.
- Being passive, these need an amp—so not for those who want plug-and-play simplicity.
- Not much long-term user feedback yet, so reliability over years is a bit of a question mark.
With so few ratings so far, it’s tough to know how these will hold up after months or years of regular use.
Customer Reviews
Buyers mention stepping up from studio monitors and liking the warm, room-filling sound—definitely a shift from the usual clinical options. Some looked at other brands but landed on these because of the overall positive vibe.
Reviews are still pretty limited, but the early ratings are all top marks. No major complaints have surfaced yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Picking out bookshelf speakers always leads to a bunch of questions. Here are some of the most common things people want to know about the Theva lineup.
What are the specifications of the Focal Theva No 1 loudspeakers?
- Driver Composition: TNF aluminum/magnesium tweeter and 6.5-inch Slatefiber bass/mid driver.
- Connectivity: RCA and 3.5mm jack compatibility.
- Dimensions: Roughly 10.24″ x 8.34″ x 15.43″; weight is about 15.4 pounds.
- Configuration: Stereo output (2.0 channel).
- Power: Corded electric, 8-ohm impedance.
- Other Features: Rear-vented bass reflex, optional stand for time alignment.
How does the Focal Theva No 2 compare to the No 1 model?
Both are from the same family, but No 2 is a floorstander with more bass and a bigger soundstage, thanks to its larger cabinet.
No 1 is smaller and fits on a shelf, which is perfect if you’re tight on space. No 2 is better for bigger rooms and those who want that “live concert” feel. Honestly, it comes down to how much space you have and how big you want your sound.
What is the price range for the Focal Theva No 1 bookshelf loudspeakers?
Theva No 1 sits in the mid-level hi-fi price range.
- Online Listings: Pricing varies, but it’s not entry-level or ultra-premium—kind of in between.
- Value Factors: Fancy drivers and solid build might justify the price if you care about those things, but it’s not a bargain pick.
Can the Focal Theva No 1 speakers be used for professional studio monitoring?
These are aimed at home listening—living rooms, home theaters, that sort of thing.
- Sound Profile: Warmer and more musical than the super-accurate sound you’d expect from studio monitors.
- Usage: You could use them in a studio, but for mixing or mastering, traditional monitors are probably a better fit.
What improvements have been made in the Focal Theva No 2 over the previous version?
No 2 mainly improves on soundstage and bass extension compared to earlier bookshelf models.
- Cabinet Design: Bigger cabinet, more low-end.
- Driver Arrangement: Upgraded size and layout for higher output and deeper bass.
- Listener Benefit: If you want a bigger, fuller sound, No 2 is the way to go. No 1 keeps things clear and compact.
Click here to check pricing and availability on Amazon.
What do audiophiles say about the performance of the Focal Theva No 1 in sound quality?
Feedback from audiophile circles on the No 1’s sound quality usually points out:
- Strengths:
- Treble’s crisp and detailed, which folks chalk up to that aluminum/magnesium tweeter.
- Midrange feels lively, and the overall sound has a pretty natural vibe.
- It’s compact, so you can squeeze it into smaller rooms without it taking over.
- There’s a warmth and fullness to the sound that stands apart from those colder, more analytical monitors.
- Potential Downsides:
- Some people mention it doesn’t really offer the dead-flat frequency curve you’d want for super-precise studio work.
- Bass output can feel a bit reined in, especially if you’re comparing it to bigger speakers.
If you’re after something for relaxed home listening and want to steer clear of that ultra-clinical sound, the No 1 seems to get a lot of love.
TechBytes
Our mission is to showcase the complex world of technology with comprehensive, accessible reviews. We bring you the freshest insights on everything from the most streamlined smartphones to the mightiest laptops, as well as the latest in smart home gadgets that simplify your daily routine and fitness wearables that monitor your well-being. Rest assured, we're here to guide you through the ever-evolving tech landscape.
