Focal On Wall Stand Review

Introduction

When it comes to high-fidelity audio, the significance of speaker placement cannot be overstated. The Focal On Wall Stand is a testament to the brand's commitment to both acoustic performance and aesthetic appeal. These stands, specifically designed for Focal's On Wall 302 and 301 speakers, offer an alternative to wall-mounting, providing flexibility and enhancing the visual and aural experience of a home theater setup.

Design and Build Quality

Aesthetics and Color Options

The sleek and modern design of the Focal On Wall Stand is immediately noticeable. Available in black or white, these stands can seamlessly integrate into any living space. The color options are tailored to complement the Focal On Wall 300 series speakers, maintaining design continuity and visual harmony within the room.

Material and Construction

Focal's choice of an all-metal construction for their On Wall Stands is commendable. This choice ensures stability and durability, which are crucial for supporting premium speakers. The metal construction not only provides a sturdy foundation but also contributes to the overall premium feel of the product.

Assembly and Setup

Assembly of the Focal On Wall Stand is straightforward and requires minimal effort, thanks to the inclusion of two Allen wrenches. The ease of assembly transforms what could be a cumbersome process into a manageable, one-person job, allowing users to quickly enjoy their enhanced audio setup.

Features

Compatibility and Versatility

The Focal On Wall Stand is designed with a keen understanding of customer needs. Its compatibility with both the On Wall 302 and 301 speakers showcases Focal's dedication to providing versatile, user-friendly products. The option to mount the speakers either vertically or horizontally is a significant advantage, offering users the flexibility to tailor their home theater to their specific preferences.

Enhanced Aesthetics for Home Theater

For those who value a clean and minimalist home theater environment, the Focal On Wall Stand delivers. By allowing the speakers to be used as freestanding units, the stands contribute to a cinema-like appearance that hides the speakers and keeps the focus on the screen.

Integration with Surround Sound Systems

The Focal On Wall Stand isn't just about looks; it's a functional component of a customizable sound system. Whether you're setting up a 5.1.2 surround system or looking for a timber-matched front three-speaker configuration, these stands provide the foundation for an immersive audio experience.

Performance

Stability and Acoustic Impact

The weighted bases of the Focal On Wall Stand are a masterful touch, ensuring stability without being cumbersome. The addition of small rubber shock mounts is a thoughtful detail, keeping the speakers acoustically inert from vibrations. This attention to detail is indicative of Focal's expertise in creating products that enhance, rather than detract from, the listening experience.

Sound Quality Enhancements

The role of a speaker stand in sound quality is often underestimated. By providing an 'infinite baffle' setup through the Klippel Near Field Scanner Baffle module, the Focal On Wall Stand can positively influence sound quality, particularly when paired with high-end components like REL subs and a Marantz 8015 amplifier.

Practical Considerations

Space Efficiency and Placement Flexibility

One of the Focal On Wall Stand's greatest strengths is its ability to adapt to various living situations. Not every user can or wants to wall-mount their speakers, and these stands offer a viable and stylish alternative. This flexibility, however, comes with the requirement of floor space, which may be a consideration for those with smaller rooms.

Cable Management

Despite its many strengths, the Focal On Wall Stand does have a few areas that could be improved. The limited space for accommodating speaker wire connections, particularly with banana plugs, can pose a challenge. Users may find that certain types of speaker cables may lead to a slight tilt in speaker positioning, and better access to binding posts would enhance the user experience.

Comparison with Alternative Solutions

In comparison to wall-mounting, the Focal On Wall Stand offers a different set of benefits and challenges. While it provides a more flexible placement and avoids the permanence and potential wall damage of mounting, it does require floor space and adds to the overall cost of the speaker setup. However, for renters or those who prefer not to mount speakers, it is an elegant solution.

Pros and Cons Recap

Pros:
- Aesthetically pleasing design that complements Focal's On Wall 300 series speakers
- Easy assembly with included tools
- Flexibility in speaker placement and orientation
- Stability ensured by weighted bases and rubber shock mounts
- Enhances sound quality in conjunction with high-end audio components
- Can integrate with existing or future Focal speaker systems for a cohesive sound setup

Cons:
- Limited space for speaker wire connections
- Potential difficulty in connecting certain types of speaker cables
- Access to binding posts could be improved
- Additional cost for the speaker setup
- Requires floor space for placement

Final Thoughts

The Focal On Wall Stand is a well-crafted accessory that offers both form and function for enthusiasts of high-fidelity audio. Its design and build quality are in line with Focal's reputation for premium products. While there are some considerations regarding cable management and floor space, the flexibility, stability, and potential for sound quality enhancement make it a valuable addition to any home theater system. For those unable to wall-mount their speakers or seeking a visually appealing and acoustically beneficial setup, the Focal On Wall Stand is a compelling choice, offering a sophisticated and high-performance solution.