High-Performance Audio Reviews
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Celebrating 29 Years Of Service To Music Lovers
CEDIA Expo 2007
Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association
Mirage will introduce at
CEDIA 2007 a five-pack NANOSAT Prestige bundle ($899) called the Prestige 5 that will be easier for retailers to merchandise. Consisting of four NANOSAT Prestige satellites to serve as front and surround channels and a NANO center channel, this setup incorporates the company's exclusive OMNIPOLAR Technology to deliver the company's signature 360-degree sound. Featuring a multi-layered, hand-crafted medium density fiberboard cabinet, each magnetically-shielded Prestige satellite employs a 2.75-inch titanium deposit polypropylene woofer and 0.75-inch titanium hybrid tweeter mounted in Mirage's patented OMNIGUIDE dispersion system. The OMNIGUIDE module is hidden under a black cloth-covered grille, creating a classy look that easily integrates the satellites into any home décor. Equipped with high-quality five-way binding posts, these speakers permit the use of banana plugs, spades or a bare wire connection. Furthermore, these speakers can be wall mounted using the included brackets, placed on a table or shelf, or affixed to optional MS-STB stands. Frequency
response is from 110Hz to 20kHz, so a subwoofer is recommended. These small monitors are 89dB/W/m
sensitive and overall measurements arte 5.8 x 4.2 x 4.3 (HxDxW in inches).
Mirage Prestige S8 and S10 ($499 and $699 respectively) subwoofers are designed for the company's OMNISAT v2 and NANOSAT Prestige systems. A bass-reflex design with dual rear-firing ports, the Prestige S10 features a powerful 10-inch front-firing fiberglass composite driver with patented Ribbed Elliptical Surround. This proprietary design is said to eliminate any surround dimpling, enabling the subwoofer to play lower with greater output and fidelity. A high-performance BASH amplifier allows this hard-hitter to deliver 300 watts of continuous power and 1,200 watts of dynamic peak power. A bass-reflex design with a single rear-firing port, the smaller Prestige S8 (pictured) offers the same driver technology as the S10, but instead utilizes an 8-inch woofer and generates 200 watts of continuous power and 800 watts of dynamic peak power. Both models feature low level and stereo high level inputs and have an 18dB/octave variable low-pass filter that is continuously adjustable from 40Hz to 120Hz. A fully variable phase control from -180 to +180 facilitates the ideal acoustical integration of each subwoofer with other speakers in a Mirage
system.
Definitive Technology will have their new Mythos Ten ($900 each) on-wall loudspeakers at CEDIA 2007. The Mythos Ten is 34.5 x 6.06 x 4.37 (HxWxD in inches) and is proportioned to match 50-inch and larger flat panel video displays. Through the use of advanced driver and enclosure technologies, the Mythos Ten is claimed to achieve a level of performance never before achieved in on-wall loudspeakers. Each Mythos Ten contains two high-definition Balanced Dual Surround System (BDSS) 5.25-inch drivers that are pressure coupled to two 5 x 8 inch racetrack-shaped planar medite low-bass radiators for a total bass radiating surface greater than that of a single 12-inch conventional woofer. Bass roll-off of the Mythos Ten is smooth and controlled, allowing it to seamlessly blend with a powered subwoofer, such as Definitive's Super Cube I. The two active 5.25-inch drivers surround a new generation Pure Aluminum dome tweeter, the same used in Definitive's Mythos ST SuperTowers. This tweeter incorporates a new voice coil, dome, surround, and an acoustically contoured faceplate. Mythos series enclosures are hand-polished aircraft-grade extruded aluminum featuring proprietary damping technologies that ensure total rigidity. All components are mounted on a resonance-free PolyStone baffle. Overall frequency response is 31Hz to 30kHz and sensitivity is a relatively high 93dB/W/m. Mounting options include stainless steel wall mount bracket and shelf leveling foot (included). Available finishes are polished silver or gloss
black.
Harman
Consumer Group has many new products for CEDIA attendees to see and hear. Harman
Kardon is showcase their DMC 1000 digital media center, a highly versatile
audio/video source component that provides unique media storage and playback
capabilities. The company is also featuring the flexible DMC 250 digital media
center, its AVR 47 Series advanced-technology audio/video receivers, the
elegant, high-performance CP 65 complete home theater system, a variety of
dedicated multi-room products, and more. Harmon's Infinity brand introduced the PS212W,
its first-ever wireless subwoofer and its ERS 610 in-ceiling speaker,
incorporating Maximum Radiating Surface (MRS) flat-panel driver technology. Infinity's
new Classia Series loudspeakers make an appearance as is JBL's Cinema Sound CSS10W wireless subwoofer. The company
is also demonstrating its latest JBL Synthesis components, including the
SDEC-4000 digital equalizer and SDP-40HD surround processor/preamplifier, in a
spectacular Synthesis Project Array 7.4-channel system.
KEF will continuing the evolution of their Reference Series with over three decades of experience and knowledge. This newest evolution of KEF's flagship Reference Series,
claimed by KEF, "has been transformed pushing the boundaries of sonic performance further still." The Next-Generation Reference Series features a new trademark Uni-Q array with a sophisticated elliptical dome tweeter and a patented 'Uni-Form' flat surround midrange driver for stunningly clear vocals, fabulous imaging and a commanding soundstage throughout the room. Ultra low distortion bass drivers deliver thunderous, accurate dynamics thanks in part to KEF's super light neodymium magnet assembly, as well as many other innovatively applied LF technologies (refer to KEF's latest Reference white paper for more details). KEF's proven decoupling techniques - all drivers are decoupled from the cabinet to avoid unwanted resonances and interactions. Improved low-frequency response and customization with a two-position bass control. Superior equalization and flexibility, due to a new four-position high-frequency level control. Computer optimized second-order and fourth-order crossovers for less distortion at lower frequencies. Radical cabinet designs featuring handsome new finish options in American Walnut, Piano Black, Satin Sycamore and High-Gloss Cherry. "The KEF philosophy is not just about Uni-Q, ACE or any of our other technologies - it is the pursuit of natural sound reproduction through intelligent engineering." commented Dr. Andrew Watson, KEF's Senior Acoustics Engineer. "In this respect, our skill is not just in developing these technologies but in applying them to achieve real benefit for the listener. And that's what our new Reference Series is all about." The KEF Reference line-up includes the newly-developed dedicated center-channel speakers, Models 202.2 and 204.2, and a unique 3-way dipole surround sound speaker, Model 206.2. KEF also introduces two outstanding subwoofers, the Model 208 and Model 209. The classic bookshelf Model 201.2, the elegant floor-standing Models 203.2 and Model 205.2, and the top-of-the-line Model 207.2 complete the range. As for pricing, the Reference line-up ranges from $2,500 each for Model 201.2 to $10,000 each for Model
207.2.
KEF will also introduce their new furniture-grade XQ Series loudspeakers, thereby bridging the gap between their flagship Reference range and the highly touted iQ Series. The all-new XQ line delivers the high-end performance expected of KEF products while incorporating a modern design that's also KEF's hallmark. Integrating proven technology advancements from the Reference line, the XQ Series consists of five models including the XQ10, XQ20, XQ30, XQ40, and XQ50c with prices ranging from $700 to $1,700 per speaker. This new family represents an engineering and design tour-de-force based on both superb function and aesthetic elegance. The XQ product range incorporates KEF's newest technology upgrades with stylish, elegant finish options. The speakers offer KEF's Uni-Q array with a sophisticated elliptical dome tweeter and a patented 'Uni-Form' flat surround midrange driver for stunningly clear vocals, fabulous imaging and a commanding soundstage throughout the room. Also added in this series is a protective "crown-waveguide" for smoother and more extended high frequency response. Technology advancements in the XQ Series
include KEF's new hybrid titanium Uni-Q driver array with aluminum HF transducer, a Crown-waveguide device protects tweeter from damage and improves off-axis frequency dispersion and extended, and a crossover network using ultra high-grade, tight-tolerance components. Each model includes audiophile-grade WBT loudspeaker wire terminals fitted directly to the cabinet and a filled aluminum anodized front baffle for improved driver decoupling and aesthetics.
We were among the very first to repot on KEF flagship Muon floorstanding
loudspeaker (€100,000) within our Munich
High End 2007 show report earlier this year.
Jamo introduced their A
400 series loudspeakers as entry-level flat-panel series with similar depth
and styling to popular flat-panel televisions. Styled by award-winning
designers Smedegaard and Weis, the A 400 series is part of the company's
Aesthetic range of designer speakers. While maintaining the same smart design
ethic as the company's well-established A 70 series, the entry-level A 400
models come in at lower price points by utilizing an inert extruded polymer
cabinet material rather than aluminum alloy. Consisting of five mix-and-match
models, the A 400 lineup includes the A 407 that is for main front-channel use
in a multi-channel music and home theater system. This floorstanding model
employs a 1-inch (25mm) woven textile dome tweeter and four mid/bass drivers.
Jamo's A 405 is for front and/or rear-channel surround use in a multi-channel
system and is designed for shelf or wall mounting. Essentially, it is a
smaller version of the A 407 and uses a 1-inch (25mm) woven textile dome
tweeter and two mid/bass drivers. The A 402 is the smallest loudspeaker in the
series and is a wall-mountable satellite still producing high-performance
sound from a single coaxial 3-inch driver and a 0.75-inch tweeter mounted on a
separate plastic "bridge." For low frequency support, the Jamo A 400
SUB reflex-ported design employs an 8-inch driver and 200 watts of power.
RBH Sound will launch many new models including the 6100-SE and 6100-SE/R ($3,099 and $3,999 respectively) freestanding loudspeakers designed to be used as the front left, center or right (LCR) channels in a home audio and/or theater system. What makes these line-array designs different is that they feature four proprietary aluminum cone 6.5-inch woofers and three 1-inch silk dome tweeters that produce high sound pressure levels and outstanding fidelity for larger rooms. The 6100-SE/R incorporates reference-grade enhancements over the 6100-SE such as aluminum cone woofers with a fixed-position phase plug. The phase plug extends the frequency response these drivers are capable of reproducing, resulting in increased sonic resolution. In addition, the 6100-SE/R features reference-level tweeters that employ a larger motor structure for increased power handling and improved detail and clarity. The 6100-SE and 6100-SE/R are built in the USA and are available in 30 beautiful, hand-finished hardwood veneers. Dimensions are 8.75 x 11.5 x 48 (WxDxH in
inches).
RBH Sound appeases the floorstander crowd with four models
including the T-1/R, T-2/R, T-3/R and the 1010-SE/R ($4,299/pair, $10,299.95/pair, $16,299.95/pair and $2,999/each respectively). The T-1/R, T-2/R and T-3/R modular speakers are reference versions of the Signature Series while the 1010-SE/R is a reference version of the Signature Series subwoofer. RBH Sound has incorporated higher performance drivers and redesigned crossover networks to improve upon the award-winning platform of the Signature Series T System. The tweeters were upgraded with extremely high performance tweeters with a larger motor structure, increased power handling and improved resolution. The woofers which give the Signature Series its great bass to upper-midrange performance were upgraded to an exclusive RBH Sound aluminum cone woofer featuring a fixed phase plug. The use of a fixed-position phase plug extends the frequencies these drivers are capable of reproducing, resulting in increased sonic clarity. Crossover network components were then modified to manage the higher quality driver components, providing increased audio quality and power handling.
The foundation of the Signature Reference T System, the 1010-SE/R powered subwoofer is an enhanced version of the reputable Signature Series 1010-SEP powered subwoofer. The 1010-SE/R's feature-laden, integrated 500 Watt amplifier delivers almost 50 percent more power than the 1010-SEP's amplifier, thoroughly feeding the upgraded, power hungry dual 10-inch long-throw aluminum cone woofers. To reduce port noise and increase the subwoofers' output capability, the standard 3-inch aerovent was replaced with a 4-inch diameter dimpled aerovent. The net result of these upgrades is exceptionally accurate and heart-stopping bass performance down to 18Hz.
The T-1/R modular speaker sports four 6.5-inch woofers and three 1-inch tweeters in a dispersion-averaging alignment; this speaker features superior audio quality and higher power handling over the T-1, its Signature Series cousin. A T-1/R mounted atop a 1010-SE/R combine to create the reference-grade T-2/R. To lock these two models together, RBH Sound uses a custom, black powder-coated clamp and footing system. The T-3/R, is a T-1/R 'sandwiched' between dual 1010-SE/R powered subwoofers, and represents the epitome of the Signature Reference Series T System. As with any Signature Series model, these models are available in 30 beautiful, hand-finished hardwood veneers.
High-Performance Audio Reviews
Mirage will introduce at
CEDIA 2007 a five-pack NANOSAT Prestige bundle ($899) called the Prestige 5 that will be easier for retailers to merchandise. Consisting of four NANOSAT Prestige satellites to serve as front and surround channels and a NANO center channel, this setup incorporates the company's exclusive OMNIPOLAR Technology to deliver the company's signature 360-degree sound. Featuring a multi-layered, hand-crafted medium density fiberboard cabinet, each magnetically-shielded Prestige satellite employs a 2.75-inch titanium deposit polypropylene woofer and 0.75-inch titanium hybrid tweeter mounted in Mirage's patented OMNIGUIDE dispersion system. The OMNIGUIDE module is hidden under a black cloth-covered grille, creating a classy look that easily integrates the satellites into any home décor. Equipped with high-quality five-way binding posts, these speakers permit the use of banana plugs, spades or a bare wire connection. Furthermore, these speakers can be wall mounted using the included brackets, placed on a table or shelf, or affixed to optional MS-STB stands. Frequency
response is from 110Hz to 20kHz, so a subwoofer is recommended. These small monitors are 89dB/W/m
sensitive and overall measurements arte 5.8 x 4.2 x 4.3 (HxDxW in inches).
Mirage Prestige S8 and S10 ($499 and $699 respectively) subwoofers are designed for the company's OMNISAT v2 and NANOSAT Prestige systems. A bass-reflex design with dual rear-firing ports, the Prestige S10 features a powerful 10-inch front-firing fiberglass composite driver with patented Ribbed Elliptical Surround. This proprietary design is said to eliminate any surround dimpling, enabling the subwoofer to play lower with greater output and fidelity. A high-performance BASH amplifier allows this hard-hitter to deliver 300 watts of continuous power and 1,200 watts of dynamic peak power. A bass-reflex design with a single rear-firing port, the smaller Prestige S8 (pictured) offers the same driver technology as the S10, but instead utilizes an 8-inch woofer and generates 200 watts of continuous power and 800 watts of dynamic peak power. Both models feature low level and stereo high level inputs and have an 18dB/octave variable low-pass filter that is continuously adjustable from 40Hz to 120Hz. A fully variable phase control from -180 to +180 facilitates the ideal acoustical integration of each subwoofer with other speakers in a Mirage
system.
Definitive Technology will have their new Mythos Ten ($900 each) on-wall loudspeakers at CEDIA 2007. The Mythos Ten is 34.5 x 6.06 x 4.37 (HxWxD in inches) and is proportioned to match 50-inch and larger flat panel video displays. Through the use of advanced driver and enclosure technologies, the Mythos Ten is claimed to achieve a level of performance never before achieved in on-wall loudspeakers. Each Mythos Ten contains two high-definition Balanced Dual Surround System (BDSS) 5.25-inch drivers that are pressure coupled to two 5 x 8 inch racetrack-shaped planar medite low-bass radiators for a total bass radiating surface greater than that of a single 12-inch conventional woofer. Bass roll-off of the Mythos Ten is smooth and controlled, allowing it to seamlessly blend with a powered subwoofer, such as Definitive's Super Cube I. The two active 5.25-inch drivers surround a new generation Pure Aluminum dome tweeter, the same used in Definitive's Mythos ST SuperTowers. This tweeter incorporates a new voice coil, dome, surround, and an acoustically contoured faceplate. Mythos series enclosures are hand-polished aircraft-grade extruded aluminum featuring proprietary damping technologies that ensure total rigidity. All components are mounted on a resonance-free PolyStone baffle. Overall frequency response is 31Hz to 30kHz and sensitivity is a relatively high 93dB/W/m. Mounting options include stainless steel wall mount bracket and shelf leveling foot (included). Available finishes are polished silver or gloss
black.
KEF will continuing the evolution of their Reference Series with over three decades of experience and knowledge. This newest evolution of KEF's flagship Reference Series,
claimed by KEF, "has been transformed pushing the boundaries of sonic performance further still." The Next-Generation Reference Series features a new trademark Uni-Q array with a sophisticated elliptical dome tweeter and a patented 'Uni-Form' flat surround midrange driver for stunningly clear vocals, fabulous imaging and a commanding soundstage throughout the room. Ultra low distortion bass drivers deliver thunderous, accurate dynamics thanks in part to KEF's super light neodymium magnet assembly, as well as many other innovatively applied LF technologies (refer to KEF's latest Reference white paper for more details). KEF's proven decoupling techniques - all drivers are decoupled from the cabinet to avoid unwanted resonances and interactions. Improved low-frequency response and customization with a two-position bass control. Superior equalization and flexibility, due to a new four-position high-frequency level control. Computer optimized second-order and fourth-order crossovers for less distortion at lower frequencies. Radical cabinet designs featuring handsome new finish options in American Walnut, Piano Black, Satin Sycamore and High-Gloss Cherry. "The KEF philosophy is not just about Uni-Q, ACE or any of our other technologies - it is the pursuit of natural sound reproduction through intelligent engineering." commented Dr. Andrew Watson, KEF's Senior Acoustics Engineer. "In this respect, our skill is not just in developing these technologies but in applying them to achieve real benefit for the listener. And that's what our new Reference Series is all about." The KEF Reference line-up includes the newly-developed dedicated center-channel speakers, Models 202.2 and 204.2, and a unique 3-way dipole surround sound speaker, Model 206.2. KEF also introduces two outstanding subwoofers, the Model 208 and Model 209. The classic bookshelf Model 201.2, the elegant floor-standing Models 203.2 and Model 205.2, and the top-of-the-line Model 207.2 complete the range. As for pricing, the Reference line-up ranges from $2,500 each for Model 201.2 to $10,000 each for Model
207.2.
KEF will also introduce their new furniture-grade XQ Series loudspeakers, thereby bridging the gap between their flagship Reference range and the highly touted iQ Series. The all-new XQ line delivers the high-end performance expected of KEF products while incorporating a modern design that's also KEF's hallmark. Integrating proven technology advancements from the Reference line, the XQ Series consists of five models including the XQ10, XQ20, XQ30, XQ40, and XQ50c with prices ranging from $700 to $1,700 per speaker. This new family represents an engineering and design tour-de-force based on both superb function and aesthetic elegance. The XQ product range incorporates KEF's newest technology upgrades with stylish, elegant finish options. The speakers offer KEF's Uni-Q array with a sophisticated elliptical dome tweeter and a patented 'Uni-Form' flat surround midrange driver for stunningly clear vocals, fabulous imaging and a commanding soundstage throughout the room. Also added in this series is a protective "crown-waveguide" for smoother and more extended high frequency response. Technology advancements in the XQ Series
include KEF's new hybrid titanium Uni-Q driver array with aluminum HF transducer, a Crown-waveguide device protects tweeter from damage and improves off-axis frequency dispersion and extended, and a crossover network using ultra high-grade, tight-tolerance components. Each model includes audiophile-grade WBT loudspeaker wire terminals fitted directly to the cabinet and a filled aluminum anodized front baffle for improved driver decoupling and aesthetics.
Jamo introduced their A
400 series loudspeakers as entry-level flat-panel series with similar depth
and styling to popular flat-panel televisions. Styled by award-winning
designers Smedegaard and Weis, the A 400 series is part of the company's
Aesthetic range of designer speakers. While maintaining the same smart design
ethic as the company's well-established A 70 series, the entry-level A 400
models come in at lower price points by utilizing an inert extruded polymer
cabinet material rather than aluminum alloy. Consisting of five mix-and-match
models, the A 400 lineup includes the A 407 that is for main front-channel use
in a multi-channel music and home theater system. This floorstanding model
employs a 1-inch (25mm) woven textile dome tweeter and four mid/bass drivers.
Jamo's A 405 is for front and/or rear-channel surround use in a multi-channel
system and is designed for shelf or wall mounting. Essentially, it is a
smaller version of the A 407 and uses a 1-inch (25mm) woven textile dome
tweeter and two mid/bass drivers. The A 402 is the smallest loudspeaker in the
series and is a wall-mountable satellite still producing high-performance
sound from a single coaxial 3-inch driver and a 0.75-inch tweeter mounted on a
separate plastic "bridge." For low frequency support, the Jamo A 400
SUB reflex-ported design employs an 8-inch driver and 200 watts of power.
RBH Sound will launch many new models including the 6100-SE and 6100-SE/R ($3,099 and $3,999 respectively) freestanding loudspeakers designed to be used as the front left, center or right (LCR) channels in a home audio and/or theater system. What makes these line-array designs different is that they feature four proprietary aluminum cone 6.5-inch woofers and three 1-inch silk dome tweeters that produce high sound pressure levels and outstanding fidelity for larger rooms. The 6100-SE/R incorporates reference-grade enhancements over the 6100-SE such as aluminum cone woofers with a fixed-position phase plug. The phase plug extends the frequency response these drivers are capable of reproducing, resulting in increased sonic resolution. In addition, the 6100-SE/R features reference-level tweeters that employ a larger motor structure for increased power handling and improved detail and clarity. The 6100-SE and 6100-SE/R are built in the USA and are available in 30 beautiful, hand-finished hardwood veneers. Dimensions are 8.75 x 11.5 x 48 (WxDxH in
inches).
The foundation of the Signature Reference T System, the 1010-SE/R powered subwoofer is an enhanced version of the reputable Signature Series 1010-SEP powered subwoofer. The 1010-SE/R's feature-laden, integrated 500 Watt amplifier delivers almost 50 percent more power than the 1010-SEP's amplifier, thoroughly feeding the upgraded, power hungry dual 10-inch long-throw aluminum cone woofers. To reduce port noise and increase the subwoofers' output capability, the standard 3-inch aerovent was replaced with a 4-inch diameter dimpled aerovent. The net result of these upgrades is exceptionally accurate and heart-stopping bass performance down to 18Hz.
The T-1/R modular speaker sports four 6.5-inch woofers and three 1-inch tweeters in a dispersion-averaging alignment; this speaker features superior audio quality and higher power handling over the T-1, its Signature Series cousin. A T-1/R mounted atop a 1010-SE/R combine to create the reference-grade T-2/R. To lock these two models together, RBH Sound uses a custom, black powder-coated clamp and footing system. The T-3/R, is a T-1/R 'sandwiched' between dual 1010-SE/R powered subwoofers, and represents the epitome of the Signature Reference Series T System. As with any Signature Series model, these models are available in 30 beautiful, hand-finished hardwood veneers.
