c. 2001-2010
MSRP $2495 /pr.
A small two-way floorstanding speaker notable for its exceptional midrange resolution and timbre plus outstanding value.
Modernized industrial design, new features, yet unmistakably THIEL.
Though clearly engineered in the spirit of other THIEL two-way floorstanding speakers, CS1.6 was a massive step forward in performance and design.
By 2001, THIEL’s small models possessed a well deserved reputation for performance far beyond expectations at the price. CS1.6 became the first model in the series to feature drivers designed from scratch by THIEL and the woofer was even built entirely in house.
Compared to the CS1.5 (and other THIEL models current at the time), CS1.6 incorporated conveniences such as a magnetic flat grille, heavy knurled binding posts on the rear panel, and four threaded holes for included spikes.
It was also the first model to offer outriggers. Machined from 5/8″ thick aluminum, these bars expanded the footprint of the speaker making them more tip-resistant and improved bass response.
Whereas previous CS1.x speakers were developed specifically as scaled-down versions of larger models, the CS1.6 was a response to calls for a THIEL that was easier to build a budget-friendly system around. The unlikely result was a speaker that was easier to drive and sounded significantly better than its predecessors.
CS1.6 includes a tweeter designed in-house but produced offshore and a woofer designed and built entirely in-house.
CS1.6 Woofer Details
Nominal Size: 6.5 inches
Chassis: Die-cast Aluminum
Diaphragm: Anodized Aluminum
Surround: Rubber
Voice Coil: 3 inch diameter, kapton and paper former, underhung
Motor: Inverted with Neodymium magnet and copper sleeve, self shielding
Designed and manufactured by THIEL in Lexington, Kentucky USA
CS1.6 Tweeter Details
Nominal Size: 1 inch
Chassis: Steel with ABS face plate and moving system frame
Diaphragm: Anodized Aluminum
Surround: Fabric
Voice Coil: 1 inch, underhung, kapton former, ferrofluid cooled
Motor: Ferrite with shielding cup and copper pole sleeve
Engineered by THIEL, manufactured by OEM partner. Though similiar in appearance to tweeters found in other brands (e.g. Axiom) this driver was engineered by Jim Thiel. It is unclear whether the face plate was an open tool, or if the OEM used it for other brands subsequent to THIEL.
Specifications
| Bandwidth (-3dB): | 48 Hz-20 kHz |
| Amplitude Response: | 50 Hz-20 kHz ±2 dB |
| Phase Response: | Minimum ±10° |
| Sensitivity: | 90 dB@2.8 V-1m |
| Impedance: | 4 ohms (3.0 ohms minimum) |
| Recommended Power: | 50-300 watts |
| Size: | 9″ W x 11.5″ D x 35.5″ H |
| Weight: | 38 pounds |