Geir NordbyPublished 2021-03-25 - 8:53 am
- Type: Two-way closed
- Recommended amplifier power: 20-150 w
- Sensitivity/impedance: 88 dB/8 ohms
- Dimensions: 22.8 x 28 x 39 cm
- Weight: 5.8 kg
- Colors: Black or white
- Waterproof: IP66
- Other: Rotatable wall bracket
- Price: £538/pair
- Web: focal.com
The size definitely matters. Focal’s outdoor speaker plays tougher than most outdoor speakers, and is both waterproof and solidly built.
The speaker, which is available in black or white polypropylene with Focals Polyglass elements, can be mounted on a wall or ceiling, and comes with an aluminum bracket that can be clamped to the speaker.
They are relatively easy to set up and can be rotated 180 degrees. The logo can also be rotated, depending on whether you place the speakers horizontally or vertically. The cables can be threaded through the bracket if desired, and the terminal terminals are hidden in the cabinet, which is waterproof with IP66 certification and UV-resistant.
There is a smaller Focal 100 OD6 if you think OD8 is too big, but in our opinion this is the one to have. The speakers have an 8-inch woofer with Focal’s inverted aluminum tweeter, and it works beyond expectations.
The sound of Focal 100 OD 8
The large Focal speakers sound like they look. The sound is rich, the soundscape large and there is more than enough bass in them. The treble may feel a little relaxed and withdrawn, but the midrange sounds warm and clearly focused. The party factor is definitely present, if you want to play higher.
The size gives more bass and volume, and the Focal speakers are among those in this test, which can really get your hips swinging in the garden. However, we miss a bit of sophistication, because when we switch from Billie Eilish to Vivaldi, there is a lack of air and resolution that makes the strings sound a bit coarse-grained. But look at music such as. Ariana Grande, and the sound immediately becomes more vivid and appealing from the Focal speakers.
Conclusion
Focal 100 OD8 is an obvious choice for those who want a high party factor in the garden or on the terrace. They play loud, and there is plenty of bass here. They are also easy to set up, but the height of just under 40 cm can make them too large. As mentioned, there is a smaller OD6 with 6.5-inch woofer, but we would choose this one for sheer brutality.
Also in this test
Monitor Audio Climate 60
The joy of playing weighs up
Monitor Audio Climate 60 has an energetic playing style that works for the most part.
Klipsch AW-525
High party factor
Don't let size fool you. The Klipsch AW-525 speakers love to play loud.
Canton Pro XL.3
Anonymous and unengaging
Canton follows an old speaker recipe with the Canton Pro XL.3, something is ruining the fun, however.
Sonos Outdoor
Too expensive
Sonos Outdoor works for the most part, and does little harm. Unfortunately, it sounds boring, and the price tag is more than a bit steep.
Bowers & Wilkins AM-1
The best outdoor speaker
The Bowers & Wilkins outdoor speaker is very elaborate, and so is the sound.