Ø Audio FRIGG 02 Loudspeaker Review – The Sound of the North

If you search for Odin, Thor, or Mjolnir on this website, prepare to find more results than counting pints of ale in Valhalla. Why, you ask? Norse mythology holds a special place in my heart for a couple of fascinating reasons—the most significant being that it, quite literally, saved my life!

After a catastrophic motorcycle accident, involving more than three hours of internal bleeding, a couple of blood transplants, two surgeries, and the loss of my spleen and part of my abdomen, I found myself in the ICU. Amid this chaos, an old figure approached me with a book, saying, “It’s more interesting than what your mother brought. It’ll reignite hope and strength within you.” I dove into it immediately; it was about the Old Norse gods and their zany tales.

Rather than focusing on the dogma of a single deity, I was immersed in the world of dozens of powerful beings. Each had their unique adventures, quirky personalities, and a moral compass that swayed between good and bad. When I read about Thor splitting mountains with his thunderclap and dining on Tanngrisnir and Tanngnjóstr only to see them resurrect the next morning, I knew these tales were right up my alley. They fueled my will to live and thrive.

Thor’s mythical persona infused fear into opponents and strength into admirers. Yet, I was more intrigued by Odin, who sacrificed an eye for wisdom. While spending over two months in the hospital, I delved into various books searching for answers to heal my body and spirit. In the end, it was the forgotten narratives of old that propelled me forward. That’s why these Nordic tales hold a permanent spot in my heart.

Fast forward to preparing for our trip to Warsaw for the Audio Video Show 2024, out of nowhere, Jonathan Magnus Cook, the co-founder of Ø Audio invites us to check out their newest loudspeakers, the FRIGG 02. No room was left unexamined at the show and two days later, we found ourselves in Ø Audio’s room at the Radisson Blue Sobieski Hotel. After treating our ears to a variety of musical genres, we awarded them our Best of Show Award and you can explore our encounter with them in our in-depth Audio Video Show 2024 report.

In a room I assumed was too small for standfloor speakers, the FRIGG 02—Ø Audio’s smallest and most budget-friendly, blew us away. The dynamics hit like Thor’s hammer, the stage expanded beyond expectations, and everything was tightly controlled as if acoustic magic cloaked the room. They impressed me so much that I asked if I could test them at home. Jonathan smiled, nodded affirmatively, and we shook hands.

Soon enough, Odin’s ravens at my window heralded a call from a courier needing a hand with two massive packages. I unwrapped them faster than a speeding bullet, set them up, and calmed my excitement before hitting play.

Before diving into my sound impressions, it’s worth noting that Ø Audio was founded over a decade ago by Sveinung Djukastein Mala. My contact, Jonathan Magnus Cook, soon helped me out pronouncing Ø Audio in Norwegian and posted a video about it, which I recommend viewing. Jonathan, towering with a commanding presence, explained at the show the use of Norse runes and symbols, which resonates deeply with me—after all, I’m a Raidho loudspeaker user, as Raidho (ᚱ) embodies a life’s journey, focusing on the path rather than individual stops. We also dealt with Ansuz Electronics from Audio Group Denmark, another Nordic rune echoing Odin’s breath.

For those wondering, “Ø” is a letter used in Danish, Norwegian, Faroese, and Southern Sámi, representing mid-front rounded vowels like ø and œ. Pronunciation might be a breeze for a Norse native, but for an Eastern European guy like me, it’s tricky.

Ø Audio’s journey began with the Icon speakers over a decade ago. With aims to broaden their reach, they designed a smaller model to perfect sound in cozy living spaces devoid of acoustic treatments. Enter the FRIGG 02, fitting like a glove. They’ll set you back €13.200 in Europe and $13.900 across the pond in the USA and their story has just begun!

Ø Audio FRIGG 02

Ø Audio kickstarted their gig in 2024 by introducing their most budget-friendly yet high-performing marvels, the FRIGG 02 loudspeakers, which I’m eager to test today. Gear up, because these folks have grand aspirations, with the Icon 2025 on the horizon and even grander surprises in the making—both literally and figuratively. Stay tuned for those!

Ø Audio is rejuvenating their lineup with cutting-edge technologies, innovative drivers, and advanced materials, pushing their performance envelope to tap into the full potential of today’s music. According to their creators: “The FRIGG 02 enclosure is meticulously designed to be the best possible housing for the drivers and other components. Both acoustically and mechanically. It’s a resonance-free sandwich design which is strategically damped and braced.”

With a trapezoidal shape following the size of their drivers, they look slimmer up top and wider down below, making perfect pragmatic sense. Built entirely in Europe by skilled craftsmen and having an impressive 30-kilo body weight, the acoustical and mechanical resonances are cleverly stopped by the enclosure and internal bracing. If there are any remaining resonances, then the high-quality metal feet will mechanically decouple the speakers from the floor and effectively null them. Their bass reflex port is located on the bottom of the enclosure. For a tighter bass delivery, the bolts should be screwed all the way down and if you need a nicer bass extension and a stronger rumble, just unscrew the bolts by a few millimeters, elevate the speakers from the ground and the bass will go full assault mode on you. Although they sounded nice right from the start, you need to fiddle with the height a little bit, as they will behave differently depending on the floor they are sitting on. On hard floors, I recommend going all in and tightening the screws, but on cushier flooring, I would elevate them from the ground and extend the low end. You should play a little with the placement near the lateral and back walls. I can’t explain why, but all Danish and Norwegian speakers I’ve tried so far like to have lots of space in between while placing them as close as possible to the side walls.

As of right now, we have three distinct designs: a formidable three-way floor-standing speaker (FRIGG 02), a horn-loaded two-way floor stander that’s receiving its finishing touches as I’m typing this, and a bigger, no compromise horn-loaded two-way floor stander that’s very easy on your amplifiers and hard on your wallet. Their reference designs are all horn-loaded, but please don’t mistake them with regular horns you’ll hear at various HiFi shows, as these guys are very much into modern music and they like to have a substantial kick in the chest. It’s difficult to find some fun-sounding horn-loaded speakers nowadays, but their Icon and Verdante series are made from a different mold.
Their creators assure us their loudspeakers are immune to self-generated resonances, equipped with metal feet ensuring stability for their robust enclosures. Without their feet, the FRIGG 02 packs some hefty 30 kilos (~66 lbs.) each, necessitating assistance in unboxing and setup. Hefty? Indeed, but in the realm of loudspeakers, that’s a hallmark of quality, with cabinet size and mass serving vital roles. They wanted to make their cabinets resonance-free, taking advantage of reaction canceling and that’s precisely why their cabinets are made out of thick MDF boards, adding a lot to their mass.

Last but not least, the FRIGG 02 are, simply put, stunning from any viewpoint. While their veneer might mirror that of numerous speakers, an appealing Nordic minimalism and subtle high-end elegance are palpable up close. Personally, I’d be drawn to the light oak veneer or the matte white finish to showcase their graceful charm. However, dark Norwegian oak holds its own appeal, exuding an understated sophistication.

Under Their Hood

The FRIGG 02, unlike their larger, more intricate horn-loaded siblings, retains a more traditional design aimed at captivating a broader audience. These are three-way speakers equipped with custom high-performance drivers crafted by the renowned Norwegian manufacturer SEAS, crafting some remarkably amplifier-friendly drivers as the whole affair has a sensitivity of 90 dB. My personal loudspeakers cap sensitivity at ~86.5 dB, and the difference is staggering as FRIGG 02 reaches higher volumes at similar preamp settings.

Boasting a super wide frequency response from 29 Hz to 30 kHz, it’s a rare sight for speakers of this size, but I’m happy to report that the FRIGG 02 will cover all of your bass-head needs. Rocking a massive 220 mm woofer (bass driver) connected to a bass reflex port underneath the speaker, the FRIGG 02 can bring lots of energy down low, as long as you have the right amplifier and room acoustics to control that energy. All of its drivers are custom-designed, the woofer and the midrange driver use hand-coated paper cone drivers with titanium former that SEAS uses in their upper echelon drivers.  The midrange unit shrank to 180mm combining a classic hand-coated paper cone on a 26mm titanium former and an inverted surround with a modern low-distortion motor system.

How about the tweeter? It uses a Metamodal TPCD Dome with DXT-lense that boasts enhanced stiffness, weight, and damping, effectively minimizing unwanted resonances and ensuring sonic purity across the high frequencies. The dome is a unique Metamodal Spread Tow Carbon Fiber Design (quite a mouthful). It’s short for TPCD. The unique feature of this TPCD dome is that it was developed to combat modal behaviors in the dome.

This is the first time a tweeter with these combined technologies has been used in a commercial loudspeaker and that loudspeaker is the FRIGG 02. It’s important to mention that just like their larger horn-based models, the FRIGG 02 was also blessed with directivity-controlled tweeters. The patented DXT technology provides directivity control despite being a compact waveguide.

If you do a quick Google search on SEAS speaker drivers, you’ll observe that (1) they have a very high cost per driver and (2) lots, and I mean, LOTS of speaker manufacturers use such drivers in their creations. I’m not sure you know about this, but your Harbeth Monitor 30 and 40, and ATC speakers from SCM-20 and upwards use…(surprise, surprise!)…SEAS drivers. How about the Jamo Concert & D series? Hales Transcendence 5, Fischer loudspeakers made in Germany, Audes Line from Estonia, Linkwitz Labs open-baffle Orions, the Penaudio line, Amphion Argon, One18, One15 & Krypton, Joseph Acoustics Pulsar, Devore Fidelity 096, Cary Audio, Tyler Acoustics and a couple of DIY designs that slipped my mind? You’ve guessed it! They all use SEAS drivers for very specific reasons. SEAS crafts high-performance drivers that don’t break up once things go loud, they have a higher sensitivity than usual, they are stiff yet light and if you’re besties with them, they might even develop a few custom drivers for you, like the ones we see on the FRIGG 02.

The impedance sits at 8 Ohms and the lowest recorded impedance is 3.8 Ohms, which shouldn’t cripple entry to mid-level amplifiers. My speakers can go as low as 2 Ohms and that can be problematic for most amplifiers that don’t offer lots of sustained current, but that is no longer an issue with Odin’s wife, Frigg.

As Ø Audio puts it: The crossover has two main functions. One is to control the acoustic response of the drivers, the other, which of course is linked very closely to the first, is to give the speaker its character.  We design the crossovers to get the best performance out of every speaker. Many designers claim that one topology is superior to another, which in our opinion is not only false, but it limits the possibilities to get the best sound out of a specific design. For FRIGG 02 we ended up with a hybrid low-order crossover. This crossover is a strong contributor to the coherent sound as well as the lively sensation of almost “being there”. The crossover was designed with the help of modern measurement and simulation tools with numerous listening sessions during the process. FRIGG 02 is designed to work in real-world listening environments, not to just measure well in controlled environments.

I was curious about the components used in crafting the crossovers, and a few days later, Jonathan sent over some pictures. That was the moment my jaw metaphorically hit the floor. Take a look for yourself and you’ll understand why.

There were several striking features. Seeing the entire setup dominated by Jantzen Audio components, from Superior Z-Cap and Cross-Cap to Iron Core coil discs, Air Core wire coils, and Superes resistors, all meticulously hardwired point-to-point and entirely handmade, was truly impressive. The conductors binding everything together are high-purity copper, indicating top-notch quality throughout. These folks aren’t messing around—these are premium components typically reserved for speakers with stratospheric price tags.

Test Equipment & The Signal Path

No one needs to be Sherlock to deduce that I have a peculiar fascination with digital sources. Whether small and budget-friendly, equipped with fantastic preamp stages, or enhanced with streaming capabilities, I wanted to see how these pair with the FRIGG 02 speakers. From compact units like the Topping D90 III Discrete and SMSL SU-X to more serious contenders like the Gustard X26 III, and climbing up to reference-grade units like the Rockna Wavedream Signature and LampizatOr Poseidon, the FRIGG 02 were put through their sonic paces with all these and more.

I also explored a range of amplifiers at my disposal, beginning with entry-level Class-D units such as the Topping PA7, moving to medium-sized integrated amps like the Topping LA90 Discrete and Hegel H90, a low-powered tube amplifier with a monumental sound like the Cayin Soul 170HA, and finally my ultimate powerhouse, the Chord Electronics Ultima 3 monoblock power amplifiers. For preamp duties, I primarily used the Chord Electronics Ultima PRE2 and occasionally the LAiV Harmony HP2A.

The signal path kept things simple yet efficient:

• An Asus GT-AXE1600 Router powered by a KECES P14 linear power supply
• An Audiophonics Ethernet CAT7 cable connecting the Asus router to the HiFi Switch
• An Ansuz PowerSwitch D3 for streamlined data flow, leading to the streamer via a Crystal Cable Monet Ethernet cable
• The Rockna Wavedream Signature DAC linked to the Wavedream NET using an AudioQuest Dragon HDMI cable (I2S)
• A Chord Electronics Ultima 2 Preamplifier
• Pairing with Chord Electronics Ultima 3 monoblock amplifiers (x2)
• Finally, the sonic stage set with Ø Audio FRIGG 02 & Raidho TD 2.2 loudspeakers
• The entire setup is powered by a KECES IQRP-3600 isolated balanced passive power conditioner.

Alright everyone, my body and soul are ready for some well-deserved music, so let’s hit some eardrums!

Sound Performance

I. Preliminary Sound Impressions

It’s no secret that European Nordic countries produce some of the finest HiFi speakers out there. While I won’t stir the pot on who tops the charts, it’s clear they possess an exceptional understanding and expertise. With a plethora of Engineering Acoustics programs, universities, and skilled professionals, it’s no wonder the Nordics have sharp ears and dexterous hands for woodworking. Historically, they’ve been among the most adept shipbuilders, known for their longships sailing across Europe. Their horn trumpets and battle cries have also left a mark, infusing fear into enemies. This heritage of woodworking and sound play is deeply woven into their veins and cultural fabric.

After attending major HiFi shows across Europe for several years now, I’ve noticed that some Nordic brands prioritize sound’s technical precision to the point where competitors can’t quite match their resolution capabilities. If you’ve ever auditioned a pair of Raidho, Boressen or Marten loudspeakers, then you understand what I’m talking about.

It’s no secret to anyone that I love a crystal-clear sound imbued with emotional resonance, that possesses the capacity to deliver a chest-pounding impact. It’s simply part of my inclination and perhaps hints at some Nordic ancestry. When some of their brands begin to play, a complete silence covers the listening room and I start singing along. Owning the KEF Reference 3 for about three years and finally reaching their upper-performance limits, it was clear to me that I needed a new pair of speakers that would keep the internal forges hot, the passion for great sound is still brighter than the sun and after sampling several loudspeakers within the comfort of my residence, I settled on a pair of Raidho TD 2.2 which perform marvelously in a ~35 square meter environment that would keep the enthusiasm alive.

The TD 2.2, although thrice the cost of the FRIGG 02, clearly sits higher on the technical totem pole. But in terms of sheer engagement, scale, and dynamics, I wasn’t prepared for the neck-and-neck competition they presented. I’ll delve further into their week-long transformation, but right out of the box, sans burn-in, these speakers projected a huge canvas filled with music. The soundstage was expansive and well spread, allowing me to play conductor in the listening room. I could differentiate elements floating midair and I had the power to choose what sounds to listen to and what to discard. The sound’s transparency was breathtaking, and I didn’t need to close my eyes to focus on a particular note or musical instrument as a whole in a crowded orchestra.

The musical notes metaphorically waved at me, inviting me to pick one and trace its journey from inception to decay.

The second aspect that manifested strongly from the outset was their rich tonality and exceptional midrange purity which works wonders on wind instruments and vocals.  Their smooth-sounding upper region was also a strong asset, getting highly resolving and extended past top octaves, but without adding unwanted resonances that would flood the listening space. Some might argue that their deep-bass resonance is their crowning feature, and I comprehend that sentiment—an extension reaching down to 29 Hz is an achievement seldom seen in speakers of such size, yet it was the midrange, its fluidity, allure, and elaborate nature that truly ensnared my affection with these speakers. It’s indeed possible to endow Boressen and Raidho speakers with a sweet, enticing sound using the proper gear—my friend Catalin, besides the power conditioner and streamer, utilizes a setup that is entirely reliant on vacuum tubes. Numerous other Nordic speakers do perfect justice to the midrange, with Dynaudio and Dali speakers often coming to mind, and Ø Audio can certainly be added to this esteemed list.  The FRIGG 02 has something special going on, an overflowing richness that makes listening to less-than-perfect recordings a breeze. It certainly isn’t a beatifying filter, as the resolution and transparency are still soaring high, only the manner in which they handle congested tracks and less-than-perfect recordings, but there’s a great deal more to uncover!

II. Burn-In & System Matching

Ahh, the mystical and enigmatic burn-in process! Some folks are staunch believers, others are hardcore skeptics, and yet another group outright refuses to indulge in this audiophile ritual. But as the saying goes, “Hearing is Believing!” We can’t deny the things our ears catch and the feelings we experience. Indeed, while measurement devices might offer visual proof of certain parameters on a screen, they fall short of capturing the myriads of subtleties our intricate brains perceive during a controlled listening session.

I’m not going to sugarcoat my initial experience by claiming that the FRIGG 02 speakers sounded phenomenal right out of the box; that wouldn’t be honest. Upon returning home from being awestruck by the FRIGG’s performance at the Audio Video Show 2024, particularly within a confined 10 square meter room, I knew these speakers deserved a proper audition in my personal setup.  Sure enough, the midrange purity was divine, and the music’s scale felt nearly boundless, but as for the bass? Alas, it left much to be desired. To my surprise, the low end didn’t meet the expectations I had, especially when sized up against my TD2.2, which sports much smaller woofers. Worse still, bass control seemed notably absent. The bass resonated with a lack of definition; it was chaotic and lacked the contour and refinement I craved. In short, it was a total recall of disappointment.

I started shooting emails and WhatsApp messages, only to soon realize that these speakers had literally zero hours on them. Considering the rigidity and dimensions of the drivers, coupled with densely populated crossovers, I understood that at least 80 to 100 hours of continuous play would be crucial to unlock their full capacity.

Challenge Accepted! I relayed this to Jonathan and tasked myself with letting them play continuously for six straight days, adjusting the volume lower overnight and cranking it way up during the day.

In testing many speakers, I felt incremental auditory transformations firsthand, but never had I encountered a 360-degree change like this around here. The FRIGG 02 utilizes monitor-grade stiff drivers that barely move, even at high SPL levels, reinforcing my concern that an extensive burn-in would indeed be necessary to loosen them up. By Sunday morning, after a five-day bass-intensive playlist marathon, it was time for our traditional Sunday family listening session.

And yes, I was pleasantly gobsmacked by the transformed bass delivery. Both in terms of quantity and quality, it was as if a different speaker had surfaced. Finally, the FRIGG 02 could measure up to the TD2.2 in terms of quality, and I could really hear the bass stretching to reach those advertised spec numbers. From “Where’s the bass?” to “Thor Almighty,” the FRIGG 02 had changed its sonic attire several times, and I would dismiss any first-impression judgments made in those initial days of operation. As Jean-Jacques Rousseau wisely said, “Patience is bitter, but its fruit is sweet,” and here it proved to be the ideal antidote to my audio woes.

This prolonged waiting period paid dividends. The bass was no longer an erratic creature, but beautifully defined and obedient. Finally, I could savor the fruits of my HiFi system and acoustic treatments, as these speakers began to blossom and display their magnificence.

While most speakers I’ve reviewed indeed show sonic improvements over days, the transformation with the FRIGG 02 was unprecedented, elevating them from Mid-Fi to Hi-Fi status. I’m curious if they’ll continue to evolve even after this review is published.

For those fortunate enough to drive speakers with monoblock amplifiers, here’s a mixed bag of news. The downside is that using entry-level Class D amplifiers on speakers of such caliber would be a disservice. Even though the budget-friendly Topping PA7 ($549/€500) managed to reach high SPL levels decently, it failed to unearth the latent beauty within these speakers. Its neutral tonality and less-than-commanding grip over the drivers depleted the speakers’ vibrancy, dimming the beautiful overtones. The bass reverted to being timid and unmanageable and the midrange purity dimmed. The sound lacked grunt and dynamics, and worst of all, the music ceased to connect with my soul.

Moving on to a bigger brother, Topping LA90 Discrete, and later to a Hegel H90 seriously improved things. The life went back into the music and beautiful overtones started to emerge from the shadows and more importantly, the speakers became livelier, more dynamic, and fun sounding.

Perhaps the biggest surprise was when I connected a Cayin Soul 170HA tetrode-based amplifier that spits as little as 18 watts per channel in 8 Ohms in Ultralinear mode and 10 watts per channel in Triode mode. As I have mentioned multiple times by now, not all watts are created equal (Rob Watts can confirm that), but jokes aside this little beast of an amp, with only 18 watts under its belt was blowing my socks off in comparison to the 125 watts per channel Topping PA7 that had little to no life in it. The Cayin not only offered significantly more headroom (in defiance of logic), barely reaching 60% on the volume knob, but the sound was orders of magnitude fuller, richer, larger, and much wider. The PA7’s flat soundstage was replaced by a full-on holographic image and the bass acquired additional layers, enhancing its quality overall.

It became clear that oversized tube amplifiers can work wonders with high-sensitivity speakers. While the FRIGG 02 aren’t exactly effortless to drive, they’re quite amenable to low-powered amplifiers, provided the quality of that power remains high.

III. Transient Response & Dynamics

For this chapter, I switched back to the Chord Ultima 3 monoblocks because they provide the strongest control over the drivers of the FRIGG 02. If you check out our Audio Video Show 2024 report, you’ll find two Best of Show awards along with a brief description of our listening experience. My take on it is this: “The FRIGG 02 are slightly smaller than the ones I’m using at home (Raidho TD 2.2), but the sound that came out wasn’t in any way smaller, shier, or less impactful. On the contrary! The sound pounded our chests with a higher force compared to what we heard the day before at the Stadium. Dynamics roamed wild around us and so was the depth and soundstage. I closed my eyes for a few moments and the sound expanded in all directions, I then looked around, and sure enough, we were still sitting in a tiny 2m by 3m room, yet the sound was defying the laws of physics. Two of the biggest standouts were their life-like tonality that covers a wide variety of music and their impressive fun factor, awakening sub-bass notes even from such a compact standfloor speaker.”

Despite the room’s incredibly modest dimensions – less than 10 square meters, the sound maintained a firm grip, consistently controlling the musical lineup. The sensation of being struck by a frontal 220mm driver and feeling the room’s energy release via a bass reflex port at the bottom is unforgettable. If modern, chest-thumping tracks excite you, then the FRIGG 02 might just be your ideal match. These uniquely engineered SEAS drivers maintain composure even as the volume cranks up. How about hitting 100 dB or even disco levels? They won’t have a problem with that and that my friends is a testament not many speakers can be proud of. Designed as monitoring drivers, they are notably stiff with minimal mechanical travel, ensuring a clean, undistorted sound even at alarming SPLs and in acoustically imperfect rooms.

The overriding aim wasn’t to craft perfect-sounding speakers for acoustically treated environments, but rather speakers that excel in everyday living rooms where interactions and social gatherings happen. Eliminating the room’s influence entirely is nearly impossible, yet skilled engineering can significantly mitigate its adverse effects. Given their stellar performance in a 10 square meter space, blasting away at 100 dB, I’m confident they will shine in any living room, regardless of its condition. Sveinung, Jonathan, and their team ensured these speakers suit standard living rooms, negating the need for costly acoustic treatments to achieve premium sound, as their design actively combats unwanted resonances and standing waves.

Moving beyond this, there’s an unspoken axiom that mixes acoustics and physics: the larger your speaker drivers, the harder it can be to control them with lightning-fast tunes. Lars Kristensen of Audio Group Denmark mentioned he’d never employ drivers larger than 7” in his top-tier M series, citing low-end control and velocity as the reasons. The FRIGG 02 boasts ~8.7” (220mm) woofers and 7” (180mm) midrange drivers, not the monstrous 12” or 15” variants—ensuring ample control provided your amplifier is prepared for the job. Their ability to manage speed is impressive, making them superb for electronic music while acknowledging they won’t outpace the nimble essence of smaller diamond-coated drivers. While my Raidhos are quicker, the price tag can cause wallets to retreat. However, my previous KEF Reference 3 speakers, priced identically to the FRIGG 02, weren’t any faster or punchier. The FRIGG 02 reaches lower bass depths, sustains that energy a little longer, and decays naturally. The Norns sealed their fate.

IV. Soundstage & Depth

When it comes to speaker construction, three-way designs stand out as having minimal compromises. With dedicated drivers for bass, midrange, and treble, this configuration ensures no gaps in frequency response, offering a truthful representation of the music. Pair this with substantial woofers and a taller, deeper enclosure, and you create an auditory experience where sound seems to emanate not from the speakers, but from a boundless canvas unfolding in the center of the room. While wrapping up my review of the Topping D90 III Discrete last week, I was already immersed in the sound of the FRIGG 02, discreetly hidden from my camera’s lens.

The more I listened, the more I traversed the Kübler-Ross change curve. Introduced by Dr. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross in 1969, the 5 Stages—Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance represent emotional responses to change, loss, or shock. These stages often illustrated sequentially for clarity, can in reality manifest in a non-linear fashion.

Initially, there was shock and denial. How could the FRIGG 02 possibly be bigger-sounding than my Raidho TD2.2? This was followed by frustration and a hint of depression, since no matter the music, these speakers enveloped me with sounds from all directions, each note cushioned within its own space as if existing in an open, airy bubble. Music wasn’t just varying in altitude; it filled every corner of the room at the same intensity. I wandered around the room, seeking that perfect sweet spot. It was indeed there, offering a slightly more three-dimensional sound from the center of the sofa, but not as pronounced as with my previous KEF Reference 3.

More crucially, the sound persistently sought to envelop me, painting a vast sonic stage up front. From the beginning, the stereo separation was superb, and gradually I accepted that the FRIGG 02 might indeed sound larger than my TD 2.2. At this juncture, what matters is not which sounds bigger or deeper, but recognizing that these loaner units effortlessly fill the air with excess sound.

Many speakers require ample space to shine, like the KEF Reference and Dynaudio Confidence series. They often need precise positioning between walls to calm down the powerful bass rumble. The bass was a challenge for me until I installed two Artnovion Eiger bass traps with Tuneable Pistonic Diaphragmatic Membrane Technology (TPDA)—each weighing 50 kilos, which allowed me to experience high-quality bass and nuanced details for the first time. The FRIGG 02, in contrast, bypasses such demands. They saturate a room with sound irrespective of its size and don’t require costly bass traps to reveal intricate bass layers.

There’s a specific Nordic band that always transports me through time, their music proving the power of sound to bring joy, motivation, and tranquility into our lives. Both audiophiles and music enthusiasts thrive on dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin—the very chemicals that contribute to feelings of pleasure, satisfaction, and connection. This internal chemistry aligns perfectly when everything clicks into place.

Wardruna is releasing a new album, Birna, in January 2025, with four tracks available for streaming on Qobuz and Tidal. If you’re captivated by Nordic folklore and mythology, Wardruna, Myrkur, and Heilung should be staples in your playlist. Listening to these bands revitalizes my spirit, especially during tumultuous times. Wardruna’s music has a profound calming effect on me, and these four tracks delivered exactly what I needed. As live Wardruna recordings typically do, they blossom on these speakers, dispersing in all directions as if the room’s walls have vanished. Usually, the studio’s dimensions are palpable as sounds echo and dissipate quickly, but not with this album. The sweeping orchestral arrangements play from afar, beyond reach by hand but accessible to the mind. Einar’s vocal strength and the harmonizing backing vocals drew my focus, with this album’s melancholy fully enwrapping me. While multiple backing vocals interplay, none dominate, enhancing the depth these speakers achieve. Mid-track, Einar’s voice erupts with raw energy, which the FRIGG’s natural tonality beautifully captured, creating a piercing vocal delivery like light cutting through the fog.

V. Resolution & Transparency

I’m not certain whether it’s the hand-coated paper cone woofers on a titanium former or the Metamodal Spread Tow Carbon Fiber tweeters that contributed to this performance, or perhaps the Nordic origins embedded in their design, but the FRIGG 02 delivered a sound remarkably close to the source. They maintained signal purity, offering a flawless performance that was transparent and honest throughout. Even during the initial days of use, I could ascertain that I was dealing with loudspeakers that produced a pristine sound, free of any unwanted frequency response alterations.

My reference setup was built to extract as much information as possible, this primordial task took me ages to perfect, and I’m always tinkering with the idea of getting MORE from my tunes. For Thor’s sake, this is my job and I require high-caliber tools that enable me to discern every nuance within a system, both positive and negative.

These particular SEAS drivers are not solely engineered for linearity under extreme conditions but also deliver a highly resolving sound. You might think that paper cone drivers and high resolution should never be used in the same sentence, but here I am, hearing small nuances like music notes rain from above and gently land on my head.

Once you’ve surpassed a certain price point, resolution becomes a critical attribute, arguably more important than other characteristics, because linear-sounding speakers can be found for as little as a thousand dollars. The FRIGG 02 doesn’t overtly flaunt their resolving capabilities; instead, they elevate other qualities appealing to music lovers, while still discreetly spotlighting hidden details. They manage to uncover a substantial amount of micro-details, although not to the extent of labeling them purely detail-oriented speakers.

When dealing with less-than-ideal recordings, I often wish for certain unintended sounds to be absent from my tracks on the Raidho TD 2.2. Mastering and mixing mistakes that one might miss in the blink of an eye weren’t as prevalent with the FRIGG 02, which placed more emphasis on qualities like an easygoing character and a robust, full-bodied midrange that never fatigues the listener during extended sessions. While swapping amplifiers to find the best synergy, the FRIGG 02 exposed each one, ranking them individually based on clarity, with the Ultima 3 emerging as the winner.

Some audiophiles seek to achieve multiple goals simultaneously when selecting HiFi speakers or electronics. I’m definitely among these enthusiasts, always on the lookout for maximum detail retrieval alongside a rich, engaging sound signature where enjoyment takes precedence. If you share this perspective, the FRIGG 02 should capture your interest, as they offer a listening experience free from glare, coupled with remarkable transparency. Reflecting upon my past encounters with various speakers, both bookshelf and floor-standing models, I’d confidently state that the FRIGG 02 performed at a higher level regarding detail retrieval. They effortlessly reveal every nuance, be it favorable or otherwise, within my recordings without introducing glare or listening fatigue.

In summary, the FRIGG 02 closely approached the overall clarity of my Raidho TD 2.2, though they did not surpass them, as the TD 2.2 still maintains its superiority within my setup. The FRIGG 02 delivered precisely the kind of clean, detailed, and transparent sound that I admire, doing so without crossing into sterility. If you’re in pursuit of micro-details and minor imperfections within your musical selections, these aspects will readily materialize the moment you press play.

Frequency Response

VI. Bass

The ongoing dilemma for small to medium-sized speakers has always been achieving that elusive bass extension that truly captivates audiophiles. We’ve all seen passionate music lovers willing to part with their hard-earned cash for speakers who can not only dive into the deepest bass pits but also keep that thrilling energy pulsing for a few exhilarating seconds. But let’s face it—this is easier said than done! Most speakers that venture below 30 Hz often end up not being the most living room-friendly option, and certainly not WAF-approved. However, after a closer look at the FRIGG 02, especially when you check out its impressive specs and robust bass driver, it’s clear that this clever creation has managed to tackle the age-old challenge of fitting stellar sound into a stylish modern living room. Talk about hitting all the right notes!

Initially, the bass neither impressed in depth nor quality—a clear indication that many hours of break-in would be required to unleash the full potential of the drivers and energize the crossovers. However, after several days, an entirely different creature emerged. Transforming from simple music-making machines, they evolved into dopamine-inducing powerhouses, especially with bass-heavy tracks. I began to hear the sustained bass reaching into the lowest octaves. More crucially, the sustain extended over longer periods, revealing additional layers of detail and brilliance in those regions. I can finally experience the loudspeakers that conquered our hearts at the Audio Video Show, as dynamics rushed back into their cabinets and I could finally start tapping my need and nod my head.

Given the FRIGG 02’s relatively larger bass driver compared to my speakers, the only drawback I noted was their inability to match the lightning-fast speed that Raidho’s diamond-coated drivers effortlessly deliver. However, it’s important to remember the price disparity and the target audience for the FRIGG 02. Suffice it to say, they offer bass reproduction precisely as one would expect from a well-executed three-way speaker, which is perhaps the highest commendation I can extend to such compact standfloor speakers.

VII. Midrange

While many younger listeners might rave about the FRIGG 02’s incredible low-end and chest-thumping punch, for me, the region that truly captivated my heart was the midrange. I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing Harbeth and ATC speakers in the past, and their signature “British Sound” has always been integral to their character, enriching everything midrange-related with added vibrancy and energy. Vocals carried an alluring sweetness, and the vocal cords seemed to resonate longer, making it feel as though these speakers were creating genuine music rather than merely reproducing it. Now, the FRIGG 02 hosts similar SEAS drivers, complemented by possibly the most refined crossovers I’ve encountered at this price point, and I assure you that’s no exaggeration. To some, terms like Jantzen Cross-Cap, Jantzen Superior Z-Cap, Jantzen copper coils, or “green resistors” may seem trivial, but to me, they articulate music’s essence! Once the necessary burn-in hours settle in, Harbeths and ATCs may seem comparatively lackluster.

As I started listening to old blues and jazz tunes, the grainy and smoky imperfections became apparent from afar, yet the naturalness emanating from these speakers was undeniable. The midrange didn’t appear to be amplified in terms of SPL, but the texture, overtones, and emotional delivery were unmistakably enhanced. If you, like me, adore soprano voices and operatic performances, these speakers make it challenging to find rivals that render vocal cords with such depth of emotion, refinement, and nuance. The FRIGG 02 has the capability to elevate and infuse vocals with substantial weight, agility, and timbre. Truth be told, while paper-cone drivers may not be the apex of resolution or speed, they offer an unrivaled level of authenticity in sound.

I’ve always yearned for the natural-sounding midrange that my former Dynaudio Contour S1.4 had in abundance, something I found lacking in my earlier KEF Reference 3. Listening to the FRIGG 02 feels akin to returning home, enveloped by the warmth and vibrancy reminiscent of my early years, where everything seemed more vivid and flavorful.

VIII. Treble

Yes, we’re dealing with a dome tweeter and right there you can forget about notions as harshness or listening fatigue. There isn’t a dome tweeter known to me that has ever compelled me to lower the volume or avoid treble-intensive tracks altogether. The FRIGG 02 is tuned for a smooth, easy-going sound, ensuring your eardrums aren’t assaulted by piercing highs. While not all dome tweeters are created equal, those that are lighter and stiffer excel at revealing higher quantities of micro-detail. The Metamodal Spread Tow Carbon Fiber design is a prime example, with its sophisticated materials and construction principles. This tweeter is capable of technically rendering a range from 2 to 30 kHz, which is quite impressive. Although I don’t have the hearing range of a bat and everything beyond 17.5 kHz is beyond my perception, I can still appreciate the accurate treble reproduction that maintains focus and fluidity, subtly accentuating note contours without discomfort, even at higher volumes. So, you can safely indulge in loud rock and metal tracks without approaching their breaking point.

Distortion is most prevalent in the bass region, and we’ve already established that it’s well-managed here, but what about the treble? When tweeters fail to maintain a cohesive pace, rhythm, and timing with lightning-fast tunes, the resultant treble ringing and unnatural percussion vibrations can significantly dampen the listening experience. Some individuals attempt to adjust their electronics for a more natural treble response, but occasionally the speakers themselves struggle to keep up, resulting in a chaotic mess in the higher frequencies. Fortunately, the FRIGG 02 is devoid of such pitfalls. Regardless of what I listened to, they consistently managed to accelerate with ease, maintaining stringent control over the treble.

System matching is no longer the critical issue it was with my previous KEF Reference 3. Most mid to upper-level amplifiers should allow the FRIGG 02 to shine, highlighting the midrange’s beauty while keeping the upper frequencies composed and refined. This flexibility ensures a harmonious combination with a wide range of equipment, making it easier to enjoy the full spectrum of their capabilities.

Wrapping Up

This was my first experience with Ø Audio speakers within the comfort of my home, and I can confidently say it won’t be my last. It’s clear that they’re rekindling their presence with a single, crucial requirement for success: they need to be bold, and their speakers should not disappoint. They must outperform similarly priced speakers from more established brands and provide robust support and warranty through a network of global distributors. Bit by bit, they are addressing these necessities.

Discussions often revolve around speaker enclosures, the technologies that mitigate unwanted distortions, internal reverberations, standing waves, and more. People frequently highlight driver quality and flaunt specifications and measurements as if they were the ultimate truths. However, they often overlook that the magic originates internally, beginning with the analog crossovers and the components housed within them. High-quality drivers and cabinets can still be undermined by cheap resistors, and I’m not exaggerating. I don’t aim to discredit or endorse specific loudspeaker manufacturers, but I will emphasize that the crossover components in the FRIGG 02 are found in speakers priced between $40.000 and $500.000. From Superes (Super Resolution) resistors to high-quality copper coils, and to audio-grade capacitors all crafted by Jantzen for high-end audio applications, it’s evident that Ø Audio takes its mission very seriously. They spared no expense with their crossovers, internal bracing, and standing wave mitigation, even going as far as collaborating with SEAS engineers to develop custom drivers specifically for these speakers.

Although many details might not be specified on their website, I’ll ensure this information is highlighted, as it captures what makes these speakers particularly special to my eyes and ears in every sense.

At $13,000, these are not budget-friendly speakers, by any stretch. But when you consider all elements—every chapter of my exploration, the thoughtful design, and the meticulous care invested from concept to completion—you quickly realize there is minimal to no competition in this niche. If you’re searching for a no-compromise design that harmonizes with a living room or adapts to compact spaces without demanding top-tier amplifiers, Ø Audio’s FRIGG 02 emerges as a compelling choice. Remember the Kübler-Ross change curve I mentioned? I found myself bargaining once more, debating whether I needed another pair of loudspeakers, which says a lot about my admiration for them and the talented individuals behind the brand.

Our website is gradually seeing updates, with SoundNews 3.0 on the horizon. While a new logo and award system are in the works, we have already determined that our inaugural new award belongs to the FRIGG 02. They impressed me immensely across various musical genres and with nearly all the electronics I tried at our headquarters. We believe the Highly Impressive award is justly earned. Congratulations to the Ø Audio team and I eagerly anticipate their future achievements!

Ø Audio graciously loaned the FRIGG 02 for this review. They are priced at €13.200 in Europe and $13.900 in the USA. You can audition them at worldwide distributors, and if you purchase a pair but still have questions, feel free to ask in the comments section below. That’s all for now, folks. Sandu is signing off!

PROS:

• Nordic simplicity, understated look, rock-solid build quality
• Easy to install and move around the house, all the necessary tools are already included in the package
• Excellent crossover components, no expenses were spared in making them
• Custom-developed drivers top to bottom that meet the strictest requirements of Ø Audio team
• Easier to drive compared to any other speakers I tried in the last five years or so
• While petite in stature and volume, the sound was huge and enveloping
• The bass extension needs to be heard to be believed and let’s not forget the layer and the wacky dynamics coming out of these things
• Thanks to a down-firing bass reflex port and height-adjusting feet, the room plays a lesser role in achieving great sonics
• If you love dynamics and getting kicked in the chest, prepare a pillow in advance
• These are covering the widest frequency response I’ve tested as of yet at my place
• Resolving but without becoming clinical & linear but without becoming boring
• The midrange purity, texture, and vibration get as close as possible to a live performance
• Defined and extended trebles, without befriending unwanted resonances
• An easy-going presentation that’s compels for long listening sessions
• An outstanding value proposition in a sea of similarly priced speakers

CONS:

• Not the fastest-sounding speakers out there
• They will need slight adjustments (height and wall positioning) until the bass will get tight and controlled
• Need long burn-in times until they start blooming, showing off the beauty within

ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT:

• HiFi Racks: WoodYard Suspended Triple & Baby Modular
• Digital Transport / Roon Server/ Streamer: Rockna Wavedream NET 4 Tb
• Network Switch: Ansuz PowerSwitch D3, Matrix Audio SS-1 PRO
• DACs: Rockna Wavedream Signature XLR, LAiV Harmony DAC
• Preamplifiers: Chord Electronics Ultima PRE2, LAiV Harmony HP2A
• Power Amplifiers: Chord Electronics Ultima 3 (X2), Topping LA90 Discrete
• Integrated Amplifiers: Cayin Soul 170HA
• Loudspeakers: Ø Audio FRIGG 02, Raidho TD 2.2
• Interconnects: Crystal Cable Art Series Monet XLR (X2)
• Speaker cables: Crystal Cable Art Series Monet
• Power Cables: Crystal Cable Art Series Monet (X4), Roboli Stars (X2)
• Ethernet Cable: Crystal Cable Art Series Monet
• HDMI Cable (I2S): AudioQuest Dragon
• Balanced Isolation Power Conditioner: KECES IQRP-3600