Dunlavy SM-1.(Evaluation)

Manufacturer: Dunlavy Audio Labs, Inc., P.O. Box 49399, Colorado Springs, CO 80949-9399; 719/592-1159; www.dunlavyaudio.com

Price: $1,995/pair

Source: Manufacturer loan

Reviewer: James T. Frane

Audio designer John Dunlavy founded Dunlavy Audio Labs (DAL) in Colorado Springs, Colorado, in 1992. DAL set forth with a stated goal to design and manufacture the best high end loudspeakers and cables in the world. While I question whether any product can be labeled "the best in the world", the DAL products I have seen have been of very high quality.

DAL's latest stand-mounted speakers, the twoway model SM-1, recently arrived on my doorstep. They were well-packaged in cartons within larger cartons.

Standing 25" tall x 11" wide x 13" deep, and weighing 45 lb., the SM-1 is no mini-monitor (DAL calls it a "desktop monitor"). The SM-1 speakers are toward the smaller end of the Dunlavy line, which comprises mostly floor- standing models. The sealed, beautifully made enclosure is constructed of 0.75" MDF covered with high quality oak veneer. The front baffle is black 3/4" MDFA. Solid oak is used at the corners where sides, top, and bottom join. The SM-1s are also available in black-stained oak as a no-cost option, with rosewood, cherry or natural cherry finishes available at extra cost.