Triangle Borea BR03 Review

Intro

The Triangle Borea BR03 has been making waves in the audiophile community, and for good reason. As someone who’s spent time with numerous bookshelf speakers in different price ranges, I was curious to see how the BR03 performed. Spoiler alert: it didn’t disappoint. With a musicality that’s rich and lively, these speakers bring sophistication and clarity to music lovers, all at a price point that won’t break the bank.

In this review, I’ll walk you through the design, sound quality, and performance across different genres—and we’ll dive into how the BR03 stands up against its competition, especially in this crowded mid-tier speaker market.

First Impressions and Design

When I first unboxed the Triangle Borea BR03, I was immediately struck by their sleek design. The model I tested came in walnut, though it’s also available in white and black finishes. While the vinyl wrap isn’t real wood, the finish is high-quality, and the build is solid. The 25mm silk dome tweeter sits at the top of the speaker, just above the 165mm cellulose paper cone woofer, giving the front a clean, minimal look. But, this isn’t just about aesthetics. The combination of materials contributes significantly to the overall sound signature.

One design element that impressed me was the dual front-firing bass reflex ports. These are strategically placed below the woofer, making the BR03 easier to position in small rooms or against walls without sacrificing bass performance. At 31.4 cm tall, these speakers fit comfortably on stands or bookshelves, giving them versatility in setup.

Sound Quality Breakdown

Midrange Clarity

The midrange on the BR03 is exceptionally clear, and this is where they truly shine. Vocals, in particular, come across with warmth and precision, making it feel like the singer is right in the room with you. When I played Dusty Springfield’s “Son of a Preacher Man”, her voice was expressive and natural, while the accompanying band remained distinct and uncluttered. The midrange excels at revealing the nuances in the music, perfect for lovers of vocal-heavy tracks.

Treble and High Frequencies

The EFS (Efficient Flow System) silk dome tweeter handles high frequencies with ease. During my tests, treble notes felt sweet and detailed without being harsh. Tracks like John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps” highlighted the clarity of the cymbals and saxophone, which were rendered crisply. While the treble can occasionally push forward, depending on the amplifier and source material, it remains smooth and easy on the ears over long listening sessions.

triangle - BOREA BR03 Hi-Fi Bookshelf Speakers - Power handling 100W - Output 90 dB/W/m - Versatile Music and Home Cinema - 206 x 380 x 314 mm - Black (Pair)

• High-Quality Drivers: A bookshelf design to be placed on a dedicated stand (S02 or S04), the Borea BR03 is equipped with...
• Frequency Response: The vocal range keeps all its intensity and the low frequencies their usual dynamism without ever...
• Design: This size is especially recommended for dedicated listeners looking for the performance of a floorstander in a...
• Benefits: From the very first notes, the BR03 impresses with its energy, delivery of deep notes, and power handling
• Ideal Space: The speakers are perfect for rooms ranging from 15 to 30m2

$499.00

BUY ON AMAZON Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Bass Performance

Here’s where it gets interesting. The BR03 delivers tight, controlled bass, though it doesn’t dig as deep as some might prefer. Tracks with heavy basses, such as Massive Attack’s “Angel”, revealed that while the sub-bass might not shake the room, the upper bass is punchy and well-defined. For a speaker of this size, that’s quite an accomplishment. I found that after a break-in period of about 50 hours, the bass loosened up slightly, becoming more full and balanced. However, for bass-heavy genres like EDM, a subwoofer might be necessary.

Comparative Analysis: BR03 vs Competitors

Triangle Borea BR03 vs Q Acoustics 3030i

The Q Acoustics 3030i is a solid competitor in the same price range, known for its neutral sound profile. However, where the 3030i can sometimes feel flat, the BR03 brings more liveliness and microdynamics to the table. The BR03’s midrange and treble have a more engaging quality, making them ideal for listeners who want to feel the emotion in their music.

Triangle Borea BR03 vs Wharfedale Diamond 11.2

When compared to the Wharfedale Diamond 11.2, the BR03 stands out with its faster, more responsive sound. The 11.2 has a warmer, laid-back sound, which some may prefer, but if you’re after detailed highs and a more energetic performance, the BR03 is the way to go.

Triangle Borea BR03 vs Monitor Audio Bronze 100

The Monitor Audio Bronze 100 boasts an 8-inch woofer, giving it a deeper bass extension than the BR03. However, it doesn’t have the same finesse in the midrange. The BR03’s more balanced presentation makes it a better option for vocal-heavy genres and those who prioritize clarity over pure bass power.

Performance Across Different Music Genres

One of the most exciting aspects of the BR03 is its versatility across genres. Here’s how it performed with some of my favorite types of music:

• Classical & Jazz: With tracks like Esbjoern Svensson Trio’s “The Rube Thing”, the BR03’s treble and midrange clarity allowed the piano, bass, and drums to breathe and fill the room naturally. The subtle details, like the reverb from the snare drum, were perfectly captured, creating an expansive and cohesive soundstage.
• Rock & Alternative: When I tested Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody”, the BR03 delivered on its promise. The layering of instruments and vocals was beautifully balanced, allowing each element to shine without overpowering the others. It’s rare to find a speaker that handles such a complex mix with finesse, but the BR03 did just that.
• Electronic & Pop: Playing Deadmau5’s “Strobe” showcased the speaker’s agility and rhythmic precision. While the deepest bass wasn’t fully present, the punch and clarity of the upper bass gave the track an energetic feel that kept me engaged. The BR03 excels in maintaining excitement and clarity in fast-paced tracks.

Amplifier Pairing: Getting the Best Out of the BR03

To truly appreciate the BR03, pairing it with a quality amplifier is key. These speakers work well with amps in the 40-100W range. During my tests, I used a Naim Unity Atom, which provided plenty of power while keeping the treble smooth and controlled. I also tried a budget AV receiver, and while the BR03 still performed admirably, the improvement with a mid-range amplifier was undeniable​.

For those with more modest budgets, I recommend amplifiers like Musical Fidelity’s M2si or YBA’s entry-level models, which should provide a good balance between performance and cost​.​

triangle - BOREA BR03 Hi-Fi Bookshelf Speakers - Power handling 100W - Output 90 dB/W/m - Versatile Music and Home Cinema - 206 x 380 x 314 mm - Black (Pair)

• High-Quality Drivers: A bookshelf design to be placed on a dedicated stand (S02 or S04), the Borea BR03 is equipped with...
• Frequency Response: The vocal range keeps all its intensity and the low frequencies their usual dynamism without ever...
• Design: This size is especially recommended for dedicated listeners looking for the performance of a floorstander in a...
• Benefits: From the very first notes, the BR03 impresses with its energy, delivery of deep notes, and power handling
• Ideal Space: The speakers are perfect for rooms ranging from 15 to 30m2

$499.00

BUY ON AMAZON Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Optimal Setup and Room Placement

Given their front-firing bass reflex ports, the BR03s are quite forgiving when it comes to placement. You can position them relatively close to walls without losing too much in bass response. However, for the best results, I recommend placing them at least 40 cm from the back wall. This allows the soundstage to open up and ensures that the bass remains tight. If you have stands, set the speakers at ear level for the most immersive experience.

Triangle Borea BR03 Video Review

Triangle Borea BR03 Specifications

• Type: Two-way, bass-reflex
• Tweeter: 25mm EFS silk dome
• Midrange/Bass Driver: 165mm (6.5 inches) cellulose paper
• Frequency Response: 46 Hz – 22 kHz (±3 dB)
• Sensitivity: 90 dB/W/m
• Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms
• Minimum Impedance: 4.2 ohms
• Power Handling: 100 watts
• High-Frequency Roll-off: 3600 Hz
• Dimensions (H x W x D): 380 x 206 x 314 mm (14.96 x 8.11 x 12.36 inches)
• Weight: 6.26 kg (13.8 lbs) per speaker
• Port Position: Front-firing port
• Cabinet Finishes: Black, White, Walnut, Light Oak
• Included Accessories: Magnetic grilles, adhesive rubber pads, user manual
• Recommended Room Size: 15 to 30 square meters

You can download & view the manual here -> Triangle Borea BR03 User Manual

Conclusion: Why the Triangle Borea BR03 is Worth Your Investment

The Triangle Borea BR03 delivers audiophile-grade sound at a price point that makes it accessible to more listeners. Whether you’re a casual listener or an experienced audiophile, the BR03 has something to offer. Its balance of clarity, dynamics, and energy makes it a standout choice in its category. Sure, the bass might not be as deep as some would like, but for most music genres, the BR03 delivers a compelling and engaging listening experience.

If you’re looking to upgrade your system or start your journey into high-fidelity audio, the Triangle Borea BR03 is definitely worth your consideration.