AudioCircle
Audio/Video Gear and Systems => Cheap and Cheerful HiFi => Topic started by: Gopher on 24 Sep 2010, 05:06 pm
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I would wager money the Zu is going to be a very special speaker, but if I'm not mistaken the $999 pre-order sale is over on the Omens. Wasn't it going up to $1500 after a week or so?
I love my Soul Superflys. They will be with me for a long time.
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I would wager money the Zu is going to be a very special speaker, but if I'm not mistaken the $999 pre-order sale is over on the Omens. Wasn't it going up to $1500 after a week or so?
Still listed on the Zu Audio website as on sale for $999 and shipping on November 1.
http://www.zuaudio.com/loudspeakers.html?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=82&category_id=1 (http://www.zuaudio.com/loudspeakers.html?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=82&category_id=1)
Steve
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The Zu offerings look pretty fantastic, they seem to have great customer service also...I emailed a question this morning and got a reply within an hour. The build quality looks very good also...I know Fred enjoys his, Mariusz is there an Omen in your future??? :thumb:
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The Zu offerings look pretty fantastic, they seem to have great customer service also...I emailed a question this morning and got a reply within an hour. The build quality looks very good also...I know Fred enjoys his, Mariusz is there an Omen in your future??? :thumb:
For $999 ? YES!
I can build something nice for that $ but you will have to take my word for it. With Omens, guys might get the idea.
If that sale is over, well ....... will have to pass.
I also email them this morning - no reply so far. They must have been busy answering YOUR questions. :lol:
Cheers
Mariusz
Those nasty laws of physics say that small, efficient, and deep bass are mutually exclusive.
Being a fellow Canadian you should at least glance at Planet 10's custom enclosures:
http://www.planet10-hifi.com/
I have those already - love it.
However, for me personally ........ if I throw DIY horns into conversation, it just confuse the crap out of the other ear. So, for me something more of a mainstream could work in a long run.
Wifey wouldn't mind something smaller for a change either. :lol:
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Just a quick fallow up:
Sale ends by the end of September.
Yes, it is still $999.
My pair will come in red. :icon_twisted:
I just couldn't resist. :duh:
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Mariusz,
Not in Maserati Blue Nettuno???
That is an intriguing color. :D
Lyndon
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No, not for intro $999 :lol:
But there are 3 or 4 basic color themes.
Dyed red maple veneer is one of them.
That is what I choose to ordered.
Black would be my 2nd choice.
Here is the kicker...... when I get sick of them and decide to sell them at 60% value.....well,
That would be seriously cheap and cheerful.
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Is the price per pair or per each?
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Is the price per pair or per each?
PAIR!!!!!
Jump!!!!!
Friend.....ex-Zu- dealer, tells me these sound better then Essence (which were a big flap BTW).
Mariusz
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I decided to split the topic and not to hijack Wind Chaser's thread...... and today is his birthday. :thumb:
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I decided to split the topic and not to hijack Wind Chaser's thread...
No problem. Those would be too big for my room. If I had the space for something that big, I'd be all over the GR Venuettes.
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No problem. Those would be too big for my room. If I had the space for something that big, I'd be all over the GR Venuettes.
My room is also small and these will fit the space nicely.......36” x 12” x 12” (92 x 30.5 x 30.5 cm)
50 pounds (23 kgs).
Most importantly, it is SET friendly. :wink:
98 dB @ 1 Watt, 1 meter
12 Ω, nominal full bandwidth, 9 Ω minimum
34 - 20,000+
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My problem is I don't have a dedicated listening room. So small stand mounts will have to do as they can be moved quickly in and out of position.
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I wonder what differences there are between the Omen and the Druid?
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My problem is I don't have a dedicated listening room. So small stand mounts will have to do as they can be moved quickly in and out of position.
That kind of sucks........ :? Maybe one day. :)
My wife is OK with my hobbies and tolerates some intrusion of our living room space etc. :P
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I wonder what differences there are between the Omen and the Druid?
Hard to say. Somewhere I read that 10" drivers are the same as those in Druids IV. Tweeter..? Not sure. :scratch: There are some differences as far as materials and construction/volume goes. I am also positive that they are pre-wired with new Mission speaker wire.......which are also on special for new Omen owners. It would make sense to at least investigate the benefits of running the exact same wire from the driver, all the way down to your amp(s). Which brings another question: what (amp) you guys use with your Zus???
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I'd exchanged a few emails with the new Zu CEO (really nice, very responsive guy). I'll post some of the info that didn't seem sensitive.
"The Soul is still coming out and I'm happy to explain some of the rational behind the Omen. The Soul and Soul Superfly are difficult to produce in bulk due to the paint and shape of the cabinet. Here at Zu, we've long been looking for a way to produce a "Zu Quality" speaker at a price that anyone can afford, our target is a speaker below $1,000. The Omen has the same driver/tweeter combo as the Soul, however is in a cabinet that's much easier for us to produce."
Also, "The Omen doesn't have the same shape, however does employ the same Greiew loading"
Basically this thing looks like it will be a cheaper to make Soul with mission wiring internally. The fact that it employs their Greiew loading should mean its not plinth gap sensitive like the Druid (from what I've read) and that it should offer Superfly/Essence like bass response. I will not be surprised if reviewers feel it betters the Druids.
Also it is speculated that the drop of 3db efficency (from 101db) is due to the cabinet.
I think this sucker will be special and by the time I'm out of my condo and in a larger place I'll probably want a pair for a second system.
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Hi all,
Any thoughts on using/pairing the Omen as a center channel with the Superflys in L/R duty?
Thanks,
- David.
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I'd probably use the Druid center myself and the Omens as surrounds.
Hopefully due to the fact that the Omen is so much easier to make they actually get some review pairs out on this speaker. I'm still waiting to hear what the pros have to say about the Superflys... I know I love 'em.
Mariusz,
If you want cheap and cheerful amplification, the Virtue TWO.2 did a very good job (when in power amp config) with my Superflys. I also REALLY like my slightly modded Dynaco ST-70. It is a very hard amp to beat, but be mindful of the fact that the speaker terminals suck and it would be easy to short with large spades.
My Firstwatt F1 was recently updated to an F1J and its starting to come around a little and is almost recommendable at this point--not quite though. If you were to get a rawson built one or DIY it could still be cheap and cheerful.
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I honestly feel the pain of those :scratch: "other" Zu users....... :lol:
Yes, it should be a fun speaker. The fact that it costs less then a grand and performs like or better then Druid or even Essence is quite shocking. If you pre-order Omens, Zu will offer you 50% off for their Mission cables......same cable used to re-wire Omens. :wink:
I'm still waiting to hear what the pros have to say about the Superflys... I know I love 'em.
I wouldn't worry to much about the reviews :nono:
It is your ear that has to justify your audio purchases.
But it surely is fun & important to reassure yourself that you are not the only crazy kid on the block. :lol:
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Its fun to read what the pros have to say, though I'm generally not swayed much by reviewers.
For perspective I own the sixth pair of Soul Superflys, have the very first Nighthawk (this was Ray's personal unit), pre-ordered the minimax dac, was a beta tester on the Bolder digital mods for the Squeezebox Touch and the first to review Wywires cables (which now wire my whole rig). Also, I'm burning in a Firstwatt F1 with the JFET update as I type, and there is basically NO feedback on this yet!
Heh, ironically I almost enjoy the hobby more discovering things for myself and trying to validate my findings after rather than chasing others recommendations. Kinda cool to go into things with a blank or semi blank slate.
Interestingly the other half of my system is quite old! My other amp debuted in 1959 and my Well Tempered Reference dates back to at least the early 80s and my Denon 103D is certainly older than that as is my 103...
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Gopher,
Thanks for your recommendation.
Instead of the Druid center, would you substitute a full standing Druid in the center channel position?
Or an Essence?
- David.
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It is risky ..... but cool being the first.........that is what I keep telling my other half. :duh: :lol:
Hey......you might be our new reviewer!!!!! Your sense of touch and instinct might be a gift that is going to wast..........Think about all those freebies flying under your nose. :wink:
I smell a shoot out between our Zu pairs in the near future. (NY)
Oh yeah....... some (actually 1 member) complained that Omen might not be Cheap or Cheerful enough for this Circle. :scratch:
What you guys think (new, used prices, Using it with cheap flea amps like MiniWatt or vintage would make the total system price within the guidelines. NO?? And WHAT about used market prices??) I try to keep this Circle loose without strong moderation but I can change that if guys insist!!!! :duh:
Cheers
Mariusz :thumb: :lol: :lol:
Edited some typo :green:
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David,
I can only speculate, but if you want a full sized center I'd probably do the Druid or the Omen for that position--or a Soul when it's released (especially if there is favorable intro pricing). I'm not much of a theater guy, but if you'd consider an essence for a center, why not just pick up another Superfly or standard Soul when it comes out with intro pricing? Do away with the speculation and just keep things the same, efficiency, tweeter and internal wiring wise.
Mariusz,
Funny you mention that--I've been considering starting a blog or something as an outlet. The forums move too slowly but I'm very close to set with my system and have fears of it putting me back on the gear go round. It's all good as long as your having fun though, I guess.
I'd get a kick out of comparing speakers down the line! I'd probably be uncomfortable as to how close the Omens come to the Superflys, but it would sure be interesting!
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Did you consider HiFi Zine ????
But I can tell you right now......it is complicated. :wink:
I would love to be a part of it if its office and its stuff committed to keep the windows close at all times. To create balance and independence is a thankless task. But, good luck anyways.
Shoot out privately of course - just to compare notes, swap gear, drink a couple beers, have few loughs. I have few amps that you might want to try with your Zus......SET - Both.
But honestly, I can not say that I really NEED another pair of speakers ( If I can build them) but I am familiar with Zu house sound and it is NOT BAD......NOT BAD AT ALL. I just did not feel like paying someone few grands for speakers like that. At $999..... it was very tempting. Besides, it might be useful while compering future DIY speakers of my to something more mainstream and widely known as well as established like Zu Audio.
I'll bet you tho that these new Zu prices are driven ONLY by today's state of economy.
Few years back it would be introduced at minimum twice this price.... if not more.
Today, if you have cash and are hifi shopping, you are KING!!!
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Having heard a number of Zu speakers....sure looks like a nice deal.... 8)
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FWIW - I did not like the Druids all that much and had even less enthusiasm for the top of the line Zu Presence. Heard some optimistic opinions about Essence. But generally these particular speakers generate some fun threads to read. Some audiophiles love Zus, some hate them. I would like to like them as a "comparison" speaker. They can sound good with right components. But I also heard them here at the Hyatt N.Y Hotel years ago and it was probably one of the less impressive demo rooms of the show. It could have been the room or lock of synergy. Whatever it was, it wasn't working. I hope these entry level Zus are better design and more polished. We will find out soon enough. If you like to stop by for a listen and a beer - you are more then welcome Chris :wink:
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At the House Party Tour.... (http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=72591.0) they sounded good....downstairs - in a well treated room. :thumb:
You missed that Rave.... :?
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Believe, I want it. :cry:
Working weekends for a while now (no choice - but I am crazy good with squeegee :lol: )
Haven't been to anything in ages.
Heard you pushed those Zus to limits :rock:
P.S
Going to PA on Sunday to hear some crap - want to go?
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Heard you pushed those Zus to limits
You heard right....I had a Butler there....sounded nice ! :rock:
Working weekends for a while now (no choice - but I am crazy good with squeegee...
Good....some dirty windows here....I'm too busy to clean them...can't make it Sunday....but thanks.. :thumb:
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Good....some dirty windows here....I'm too busy to clean them
:lol:
There is always next time :wink:
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8)..... thanks Mariusz.
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Oh yeah....... some (actually 1 member) complained that Omen might not be Cheap or Cheerful enough for this Circle. :scratch:
What you guys think (new, used prices, Using it with cheap flea amps like MiniWatt or vintage would make the total system price within the guidelines. NO?? And WHAT about used market prices??) I try to keep this Circle loose without strong moderation but I can change that if guys insist!!!! :duh:
Cheers
Mariusz :thumb: :lol: :lol:
Mariusz,
You are doing a great job facilitating this circle and I would leave it to you to decide if a product is Cheap and Cheerful enough to have it here :thumb:
I am seriously tempted by Omens... and share your impressions about Zu presentation in Hyatt NY (2007 I think it was). I thought it was due to 300B amp they used for demo (not a big fan of that tube :().
Boris
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Thank you Boris. It means a lot.
Omens might be considered a slippery slope subject for this particular circle however.
If it turns out to be true that it deserves the spot in the "top 10 speakers under a grand of all time"
then it just might become not only cheerful but truly a bargain. BTW that is in the title of this thread. Nobody makes any claims regarding this speaker........ especially since no one heard them in depth to make any meaningful evaluation. At this point, we simply speculate. Omens are the cheapest, most advance for the price speakers ever offered by Zu Audio and that is a fact. Should you consider these speakers - I do not know. IMO they are screaming deal for all those who always wanted to try the Zus or something more tube friendly. It doesn't apply to speaker builders but even if you decided to clone these it might not be worth (all the trouble/work) all the parts, materials and time to give your clones adequate appearance - forget the authentic Zu finish.
As to those 300b amps from the famous Hyatt Zu room......well, I had those and they were real bad. I passed them along to Louis (Ω) :oops: - hopefully we are still friends :lol:
Coincidentally, during my last visit to Louis' old shop, I had a MiniWatt with me. We hooked it up to one of his prototype monitors and it (IMO) killed those 300b monos on the 1st note.
Never had a chance to get my MiniWatt back - I think Louis still got it in his demo room.
But my point is (always was) that synergy is very important. So is the design and execution. I am hoping that Omens are the speakers that Zu can be proud of.
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question from a relative newb... if its say the minimum ohms is 9, how does this work normal amps that state 4 and 8 ohm capability should those amps be able to run the Omens or would need a specific type of amp that usually states 9-12 ohm capability.. may be a dumb questions but I"ve heard nothing but good things about ZU and so this particular speaker caught my attention.
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Mariusz,
I'd be game for sure. I'll be very curious about the Omens performance as I would love to be able to recommend it to friends. Nothing formal just some brews and listening.
Speaking of slippery slopes. The Soul standard is out and with intro pricing: http://www.zuaudio.com/loudspeakers/soul.html
I'd still consider the Omen cheap and cheerful, but the Soul probably won't fit that criteria as its starting to get up there.
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Mariusz,
I'd be game for sure. I'll be very curious about the Omens performance as I would love to be able to recommend it to friends. Nothing formal just some brews and listening.
Speaking of slippery slopes. The Soul standard is out and with intro pricing: http://www.zuaudio.com/loudspeakers/soul.html
I'd still consider the Omen cheap and cheerful, but the Soul probably won't fit that criteria as its starting to get up there.
Absolutely - nothing formal...... just 50 hungry, bored audiophiles with itchy fingers to #@$ with your gear. :lol:
Just kidding.
You are probably right with "slippery slope" :cry: (that is still a screaming deal)
but, I really like the general direction Zu's CEO chose for his company.
Now, on more specific side of things...... I'm still trying to figure out the major differences between bottom 3 models? Well, there is special lining, caps, binding posts....etc. Is there a difference in super tweeters between these models?
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Same tweeters/drivers in both Souls and, though there is disagreement on the forums, from an email from the new Zu CEO it appears the Omen shares these traits too.
Internal wiring of the Soul standard and Omen is their new Mission cabling.
Omen offers same loading as Soul but in an easier to manufacture package.
Omen is a 12 ohm speaker vs. 16ohm Soul, also 98db/efficiency vs. 101db--this makes me assume the Soul might sound slightly more 'alive' based on how essence was described compared to druid.
What I'm curious of is how the Soul Standard, Omen and Druid sound next to each other as I've read of Zu describing the Omen as a shorter Druid...
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I like this direction too.
Bring it boys, lets grow this HiFi party and get some fresh blood into 2ch music!
Way better to grow the base!
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I like this direction too.
Bring it boys, lets grow this HiFi party and get some fresh blood into 2ch music!
Way better to grow the base!
I am NOT a fanboy of Zu but I'm a fanboy of great value for my/your $$$.
If they can bring quality music reproduction to the messes, they will intrigue me ( and thousands of others) :thumb:
Same tweeters/drivers in both Souls and, though there is disagreement on the forums, from an email from the new Zu CEO it appears the Omen shares these traits too.
Internal wiring of the Soul standard and Omen is their new Mission cabling.
Omen offers same loading as Soul but in an easier to manufacture package.
Omen is a 12 ohm speaker vs. 16ohm Soul, also 98db/efficiency vs. 101db--this makes me assume the Soul might sound slightly more 'alive' based on how essence was described compared to druid.
What I'm curious of is how the Soul Standard, Omen and Druid sound next to each other as I've read of Zu describing the Omen as a shorter Druid...
Just to be on the same page, I pulled this quote from Zu website:
"a) internal cable
b) high pass filter network on super-tweeter
c) cabinet damping and MDF processing
d) input binding posts
e) finish options
a) Wire & cable: Soul is internally wired with Mission hookup wire. Soul Superfly is internally cabled with Zu's silver alloy B3 cable harness assembly.
b) Soul uses ERSE Pulse-X audio grade polypropylene capacitors. Soul Superfly uses Mundorf Silver/Oil capacitors.
c) Cabinet: Soul Superfly is internally coated with a layer of QuietCoat® Composite™and has the MDF core bonded with a post layup penetrating binder. Soul does not.
d) Input binding posts: Soul Superfly uses Cardas® Patented Binding Posts that are forged to the Soul Superfly cable harness. Soul uses t aditional 5-way binding posts, connected with high quality Panduit® copper disconnects.
e) Soul Superfly can be custom ordered in any finish (premiums apply), Soul is available in Zu Smooth Matte black only.
What is the difference in sound between Soul and Soul Superfly? Discussed at bottom of page.
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Soul is a 16 ohm loudspeaker, best matched with tube amplifiers. However mainstream receivers and digital amps also match well generally speaking. Solid-state amps with high damping factors are typically not a good match with Soul or Soul Superfly."
Knowing all that: the upgrade to Mundorf (or other caps) and wiring isn't a big deal to DIY guys looking for some ways to narrow the differences or elevate the performance. The QuietCoat might be a little tricky. Waiting for a price quote from the manufacturer (It might be interesting to use this on other speaker projects).
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there might be another speaker worth considiration in that price range - stay tuned. :wink: :no_speak: :banghead: :drool: :shh: :eyebrows: :duel:
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there might be another speaker worth considiration in that price range - stay tuned. :wink: :no_speak: :banghead: :drool: :shh: :eyebrows: :duel:
Maybe a Tekton OB4.5 or OB6.5?? :thumb:
I read on an other forum (audioreview) someone ordered the Zu Omens while he allready had a pair of smaller Tektons.
I hope he will post a review.
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Maybe a Tekton OB4.5 or OB6.5?? :thumb:
I read on an other forum (audioreview) someone ordered the Zu Omens while he allready had a pair of smaller Tektons.
I hope he will post a review.
Close enough!!!!
(http://tektondesign.files.wordpress.com/2010/09/dsc061000001.jpg)
Intro price $850 +
I send open invitation for shoot out between these and Zu with possibility of hosting AC tour. But that is the best I can do. Rest is out of my hand.
A little of topic but since we are talking about shoot outs and tour - we will start Maverick tour very soon. We will also have end of the year cheap interconnect shoot out (so far I have Morrow Audio, Niteshade Audio and Virtue Audio committing to submit their products for this event). We might also organize another
AC tour for these cables (all or at least some).
Cheers
Mariusz
Edit : corrected some typo - my phone is acting up a little.
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@Mariusz
Name of the company for the black speakers please?
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click here for more info (http://tektondesign.wordpress.com/2010/09/27/new-tekton/)
Mariusz :thumb:
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Thanks
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Gopher, thanks, because of you I ordered the Omen. :) This tyrion from HF. How have you been?
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Its been a while, my friend! How the heck have you been? I was hoping I’d run into you at that NY Head-fi show last year in Queens but our paths never crossed in the crowd.
I suspect you’ll enjoy the Omen quite a bit. I am a huge fan of my Soul Superflys and the speculation is that the little guys will employ the same house sound–perhaps a touch more relaxed.
The term gets kicked around so much it’s lost its meaning, but I feel my pair of Zus truly are a music lover’s speakers. They’re more versatile than anything I’ve owned or heard, easily driven but benefit from attention to detail and reasonably priced for the performance they pack–their only downside in my book is that their appearances. I could live with it, but the wife is still not crazy about them (she misses my Abbys).
Do let us know your thoughts when the ship! I think you’ll be pleased.
Also, my experience with the Souls is that they are VERY sensitive to amplification–that doesn’t mean you need to spend a lot for good results (its hard to make them sound bad) but it opens the slippery slope to amp rolling. Check out my Soul Superfly thread on Audiogon and you’ll see what I mean!
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Got off the phone with Alexander from Tekton Design and I am happy to report that his "Lore" speakers (pictured in my previous post) will be on the way for earlier mentioned "shoot out". Both speakers are not only aggressively priced but also share some design similarities.
In the spirit of Cheap and Cheerful hifi circle I will do my best to organizer AC tour for these speakers. It will be restricted though to NY, NJ & PA States. (due to size and shipping cost)
.............. :wink:
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Its been a while, my friend! How the heck have you been? I was hoping I’d run into you at that NY Head-fi show last year in Queens but our paths never crossed in the crowd.
I suspect you’ll enjoy the Omen quite a bit. I am a huge fan of my Soul Superflys and the speculation is that the little guys will employ the same house sound–perhaps a touch more relaxed.
The term gets kicked around so much it’s lost its meaning, but I feel my pair of Zus truly are a music lover’s speakers. They’re more versatile than anything I’ve owned or heard, easily driven but benefit from attention to detail and reasonably priced for the performance they pack–their only downside in my book is that their appearances. I could live with it, but the wife is still not crazy about them (she misses my Abbys).
Do let us know your thoughts when the ship! I think you’ll be pleased.
Also, my experience with the Souls is that they are VERY sensitive to amplification–that doesn’t mean you need to spend a lot for good results (its hard to make them sound bad) but it opens the slippery slope to amp rolling. Check out my Soul Superfly thread on Audiogon and you’ll see what I mean!
My next big upgrade is going to be new speakers. I've had my eye on the Soul Superflys for a while now but since I am on a budget I'm a bit apprehensive to drop that much money on something I don't get to audition. I'll check out your audiogon thread.
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Got off the phone with Alexander from Tekton Design and I am happy to report that his "Lore" speakers (pictured in my previous post) will be on the way for earlier mentioned "shoot out". Both speakers are not only aggressively priced but also share some design similarities.
In the spirit of Cheap and Cheerful hifi circle I will do my best to organizer AC tour for these speakers. It will be restricted though to NY, NJ & PA States. (due to size and shipping cost)
.............. :wink:
put me down for a nyc tour
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Its been a while, my friend! How the heck have you been? I was hoping I’d run into you at that NY Head-fi show last year in Queens but our paths never crossed in the crowd.
I suspect you’ll enjoy the Omen quite a bit. I am a huge fan of my Soul Superflys and the speculation is that the little guys will employ the same house sound–perhaps a touch more relaxed.
The term gets kicked around so much it’s lost its meaning, but I feel my pair of Zus truly are a music lover’s speakers. They’re more versatile than anything I’ve owned or heard, easily driven but benefit from attention to detail and reasonably priced for the performance they pack–their only downside in my book is that their appearances. I could live with it, but the wife is still not crazy about them (she misses my Abbys).
Do let us know your thoughts when the ship! I think you’ll be pleased.
Also, my experience with the Souls is that they are VERY sensitive to amplification–that doesn’t mean you need to spend a lot for good results (its hard to make them sound bad) but it opens the slippery slope to amp rolling. Check out my Soul Superfly thread on Audiogon and you’ll see what I mean!
I've been well, it is a shame we didn't meet in NY. Will you be at RMAF? If so, send me your cell phone number
My biggest concern with these speakers is whether they will be a good match with my amp, which is a Brinkmann Integrated. Also, whether they will go as low as claimed. I have no intention of changing amps anytime soon so The speakers, whatever I end up with, will need to play nice with the Brinkmann.
Marius, I know I'm a bit further than the tri state area (South Florida) but I may be willing to pay the shipping to compare the Teckton to the Omen.
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put me down for a nyc tour
First the shoot out between Lore v.s Omen.
This is something that haven't seen done here in a while. These two speakers just have to many similarities and shared history to pass on this opportunity.
(http://tektondesign.files.wordpress.com/2010/09/dsc061030001.jpg)
Lore is using the same extended range driver as Zu - minus the phase plug. Tweeter appears to be of excellent quality - $105 each. Size is almost the same - Lore is a bit taller speaker but paint options are also somewhat attractive.
To make this a bit more intersting, it would require at least few other audiophiles on the judging panel. Speakers shall be tested with at least two amplifier types and power rating. Volunteers welcome.
Then, we might try to organize the Tekton Local Tour but how we are going to do it and when it will take place is still in the works.
Ones that is sorted out, you are more then welcome to sign in the appropriate thread.
......... depending on popularity we might extend the tour to audiophiles from others States. But first, let's get this thing rolling.
Oh yeah, I might also add that just like Zu limited time offer, Tekton Design intro price will eventually go up.
I just hope that it is not going to happened till after the shoot out and tour.
........ and I am still anxiously awaiting Omens.
Cheers
Mariusz
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For me..the Zu's look cooler!!! :thumb:
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I might ask Alexander to finish tour pair in RED. :wink:
However, it is going to be a "blind" test so looks are out the window.
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Here is how bad I am, I'd order Omens right now without hearing them based solely on the looks if I was able...LOL!! Mariusz your Red ones will be sharp!!!! :thumb: :thumb:
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:nono:
Really ???
Looks alone???
Not me!
Yes, it is important to have higher WAF.
And it is the case mostly if not only when it comes to speakers. (wife is tolerant but it goes both ways)
IMO both speakers look kind of COOL.
But you are right - Zus do have that modern sexy look.
......and I am not sure if I picked them in the right color :scratch:
On the phone, Zu rep said it is Red but it really looks kind of rustic.
Mariusz
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The best high power amp for Zu?
Anyone ?
I do not own any except Class D DIY amp.
How did Zu mated with Chris's Butler during NJ Zu Rave???
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How did Zu mated with Chris's Butler during NJ Zu Rave???
Very good....played for about two hours at the end of the Rave (basement room).....many different tracks.
They can handle power.... 8)
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=72591.msg720188#msg720188
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Very good....played for about two hours at the end of the Rave (basement room).....many different tracks.
They can handle power.... 8)
Chris
Would you like to be one of the judges in the shoot out? Ofcause your Butler would be more then welcome.
Not sure about Zu but Alexander tells me that his speakers enjoy power and can handle itself without apology.
Mariusz
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Would you like to be one of the judges in the shoot out? Ofcause your Butler would be more then welcome.
Sure Mariusz ....one Butler (250 watts) or two (800 watts).
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Mariusz, let me know when you do this shootout, and I'll make a road trip!! :thumb:
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TWO !!! Just to be on the save side. :wink: :lol:
As always - great polish bear, pierogi, golabki & bigos.
Just read somewhere that system sounds better on full stomach.
Mariusz
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Mariusz, let me know when you do this shootout, and I'll make a road trip!! :thumb:
You are more then welcome. :thumb:
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Mariusz ,
Boris (Vista Audio) is a Tekton speaker owner...
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....great polish bear
Forget the bear....make mine beer... :beer: :lol:
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:dance: :dance: :dance: :dance: :dance:
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Mariusz ,
Boris (Vista Audio) is a Tekton speaker owner...
:o owns Tekton or owns some Tektons???
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He (Boris) owns a pair...he does not own the company. :wink:
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He (Boris) owns a pair...he does not own the company. :wink:
You made it sounds like he does. I mean, nothing surprises me anymore but that one made me scratch my head. OK just to clarify - Tekton Design owner's name is Eric Alexander.
......and please do bring your beer.....as long as it's cold. :thumb:
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You didn't catch what I said.....
......and please do bring your beer.....as long as it's cold.
You typed bear....not beer. :wink:
(http://pictures.polandforall.com/images/polish-beer-tyskie-gronie.jpg)
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:lol:
missed that Chris.
99% of my work, emails and AC is done via "smart" phone. :duh: :lol:
(http://pictures.polandforall.com/images/polish-beer-tyskie-gronie.jpg)
Oh yeah, that's the one we will have on the menu.
Mariusz
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See why I don't own a cell phone.... :lol:
But I do have an answering machine... :wink:
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See why I don't own a cell phone.... :lol:
But I do have an answering machine... :wink:
Yes but do you use it ?
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The best high power amp for Zu?
Anyone ?
I do not own any except Class D DIY amp.
How did Zu mated with Chris's Butler during NJ Zu Rave???
35 wpc isn't HIGH power (though my prior two amps were 10wpc and 2.5wpc) but on the cheap and cheerful front my restored and upgraded Dynaco ST-70 is a VERY good mate to my Soul Superflys. This shouldn't be news as Zu actually recommends it as the best bang for the buck amplifier for the Souls, but I can definitely second this belief. I'm sure it would bring smiles for many Omen owners.
I'm looking to try a NON cheap and cheerful amp in the near future to see how far these Zus can go, but the Dyna rocks and is in the sweet spot power wise.
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Please add me to the tour / shootout in NY/NJ area.
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Tour or shoot out? Or both? :wink:
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35 wpc isn't HIGH power (though my prior two amps were 10wpc and 2.5wpc) but on the cheap and cheerful front my restored and upgraded Dynaco ST-70 is a VERY good mate to my Soul Superflys. This shouldn't be news as Zu actually recommends it as the best bang for the buck amplifier for the Souls, but I can definitely second this belief. I'm sure it would bring smiles for many Omen owners.
I'm looking to try a NON cheap and cheerful amp in the near future to see how far these Zus can go, but the Dyna rocks and is in the sweet spot power wise.
ST 70 is not only great with Zus (from what I heard) but other speakers as well. Probably one of the nicest amps (vintage) out there. However, intention of my inquiry was brut power. Let me explain.......
During my short conversation with designer of Lores, it was apparent what preferences in gear and music run in his veins. It probably has little to do with Lore design but......
If drivers of choice are capable to handle high power amps and SPL, why not test those abilities ? Besides, from the aswers I gathered it should be interesting to hear both Zu and Tekton with middle range "queen" - 300B PSE monos and power house such as Butler ....also in mono (800wpc).
See.....if we do not do it , then who will?
:lol:
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I'm looking to try a NON cheap and cheerful amp in the near future to see how far these Zus can go, but the Dyna rocks and is in the sweet spot power wise.
Gopher,
I traded my Spectron Musician III SE mkII on a pair of speakers. So prior to shipping it out, I ran it with the Zu Superflys, just to make sure the amp was operationally perfect.
Did I wish I had done so sooner. The Superflys opened up even more with that kind of power (600wpc) driving them, even at low volume.
I believe you are going to be very pleased (er... cheerful) when you pair your Superflys with a real high power amp. As you might remember from a previous post, I have been driving them with 35/60wpc depending on triode/pentode mode.
- David.
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wow. you guys mean BIG power! Gotcha.
Ironically, I'm sitting here listening to my Superflys with my Firstwatt F1J and its finally starting to come around and start to sound enjoyable--a 10wpc current amp.
It truly is amazing how different the Zu speakers sounds with different amplifiers. I guess thats their transparency, but its dangerous in that it makes amp rolling too much fun. Just listed my Dyna in the trading post to try other tube gems at higher price points... Was thinking the 15-100wpc range tho. :lol:
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Thank you for your comment David. That's exactly the variety of opinions we need. Yes, I am hardcore tubeoholic and love both of my SET amps but it doesn't mean that my mind is prefixed on one and only ideal arrangement. Butlers are certainly nice but out of my price range. Other options might be used Cherry amp or Class D (DIY) mono-block modules. Or I'll just stick with what I have in-house but helll if I will pass on opportunity to hear these speakers with monster power amps.
:lol: :wink: :thumb:
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wow. you guys mean BIG power! Gotcha.
Ironically, I'm sitting here listening to my Superflys with my Firstwatt F1J and its finally starting to come around and start to sound enjoyable--a 10wpc current amp.
It truly is amazing how different the Zu speakers sounds with different amplifiers. I guess thats their transparency, but its dangerous in that it makes amp rolling too much fun. Just listed my Dyna in the trading post to try other tube gems at higher price points... Was thinking the 15-100wpc range tho. :lol:
I wasn't joking about 800wpc either.
Designer's roots are deep in pro-audio and there is this saying (quote): there is never too much POWER!!!! But now we are getting a bit off topic and into gray territory.
So, let's break it down a bit......
If you played in the band, have music-pro background, love live concerts go with power.
Otherwise, go with your instinct.
:wink:
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there is never too much POWER!!!!
I like that.... :rock: :jester:
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Tour or shoot out? Or both? ;)
Both :lol:
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Tekton Design Lore 10 Inch Full Range loudspeakers
$850 for the pair. Just posted on Audiogon
http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?spkrfull&1291481520&/Tekton-Design-Lore-10-Inch-Full-Range
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Both :lol:
well then, it looks like you, Chris, Ed and myself.
One more participant might be in order to tip the scale in case of a tie.
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well then, it looks like you, Chris, Ed and myself.
One more participant might be in order to tip the scale in case of a tie.
Don't forget me
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Don't forget me
Almost did :lol:
Seems like we are set.
I have other (small room where we can setup other gear you might want to bring.
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I like that.... :rock: :jester:
800wpc should be enough.
Driver and tweeter are capable of handling short nanosecond bursts. These short peaks can sometimes require more then 800wpc. :duh:
Yeah, sure some are shaking their heads.....
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Other options might be used Cherry amp or Class D (DIY) mono-block modules. Or I'll just stick with what I have in-house but helll if I will pass on opportunity to hear these speakers with monster power amps.
The Spectron was just getting warmed up - it had being sitting unused for around 9 months. Powered up only overnight. Then I listened to it drive the system over an 8 hour period while working in the office. I was using a mid-level passive volume control.
What I'm trying to say is that this was not the best of setups. So my take-away needs to be considered accordingly.
The most significant difference, and I was able to hear this immediately, was much more insight into the music. The inner detail and resolution just opened up as if a spotlight had been turned on.
The Zu Superflys do respond to what you feed them or what is upstream. I find this to be a very positive attribute of a speaker. I don't think of the Superflys as an ultimate truth machine, like some speakers are described as being, but they allow enough of the truth to pass through to keep me in my sweet spot and keep things honest.
My sense is that had I paired the Spectron with a proper pre and had provided for more time to let things settle down, as well as listen to the pairing over a more extended time period, my impressions of a high power amp paired with the Superflys would only have improved.
I am going out on a limb when I say this, but I do believe that the Superflys will reward the listener if a higher level of power is used to drive them. And I also believe most Superfly owners will not drive them in this manner. And that will be a lost opportunity, in my opinion. It certainly was in my case.
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What I'm trying to say is that this was not the best of setups. So my take-away needs to be considered accordingly.
You are absolutely right.
Some might get the wrong impression and feeling when reading these posts.
It doesn't matter what you use with your Zus (or other speakers) as long as you are happy with your set up.
What we are doing here is simply speculating and weighting on common practices in regards to high efficiency speaker setup.
The most significant difference, and I was able to hear this immediately, was much more insight into the music. The inner detail and resolution just opened up as if a spotlight had been turned on.
It might be due to extended dynamic range and headroom. :weights:
The Zu Superflys do respond to what you feed them or what is upstream. I find this to be a very positive attribute of a speaker. I don't think of the Superflys as an ultimate truth machine, like some speakers are described as being, but they allow enough of the truth to pass through to keep me in my sweet spot and keep things honest.
That's good thing right?
That is what I like about most single driver designs. But like everything in life, there too have obvious limitations. :tempted:
My sense is that had I paired the Spectron with a proper pre and had provided for more time to let things settle down, as well as listen to the pairing over a more extended time period, my impressions of a high power amp paired with the Superflys would only have improved.
You are probably right. Perhaps quality tube preamp. :wink:
I am going out on a limb when I say this, but I do believe that the Superflys will reward the listener if a higher level of power is used to drive them. And I also believe most Superfly owners will not drive them in this manner. And that will be a lost opportunity, in my opinion. It certainly was in my case.
It is probably going to be my case as well. I am planing to run them with 300B PSE (18wpc) monos and tube preamp. At least for now.
Ones I get my Dodd buffer back (almost forgot about that), I am planing (if I find the time) to build some tweaked out Class D amps........ with members' help ofcause.
Mariusz :thumb:
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As for the shoot-out....let's just call it a comparison... :wink:
But a "no excuse" comparison....meaning speakers are "fully" broken in....all equipment in top shape...everything ready for testing.
Take your time....give the speakers all they need....so their "ready to roll".
How's that sound Mariusz..... :thumb:
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As for the shoot-out....let's just call it a comparison... :wink:
But a "no excuse" comparison....meaning speakers are "fully" broken in....all equipment in top shape...everything ready for testing.
Take your time....give the speakers all they need....so their "ready to roll".
How's that sound Mariusz..... :thumb:
Sounds good.
I will give them both few hundred hours of burn-in time.
Comparison will be conducted in real life room - nothing special, except few acoustic treatments to band aid some room anomalies such as odd shape, doors, window and 1st reflections.
Q: what would you recommend for quick A/B switching? I do not want to blindfold you guys. :lol:
I am not sure if we can replicate these tests but I am listening to your ideas..........
(http://www.cepro.com/images/uploads/paradigm_listening_test.jpg)
(http://www.goodsound.com/editorial/pics/200906_harman.jpg)
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Q: what would you recommend for quick A/B switching? I do not want to blindfold you guys.
I do have a blindfold....really !! :lol:
So....you want to do quick A/B switching?
Why not play one pair....then the next pair....taking notes along the way....all the same musical selections.
I think all of the people selected are "experienced"....and fully able to pick out the different aspects of each pair of speakers. 8)
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I am preparing to go in for a pair of the omens in blue with some mission speaker cables and power cables. From what I hear the Omen is most like the Druid in the "definition" of the speaker. But have more the traits of the soul's frequency response - most notable changes are in the bass and in the upper mid-range. The Omen drivers are modified Druid drivers while the Soul uses a whole new driver system.
I was elated because I have been considering the soul superfly for a long time and it has been just outside my price range. I am also purchasing a Peachtree Nova to drive the darn things. Synergistic super bang-for-the-buck.
I am saving money because I am downsizing a Harbeth system.
Sam
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I do have a blindfold....really !! :lol:
So....you want to do quick A/B switching?
Why not play one pair....then the next pair....taking notes along the way....all the same musical selections.
I think all of the people selected are "experienced"....and fully able to pick out the different aspects of each pair of speakers. 8)
We can do that.
We will also need some quality tracks that we are all familiar with.
Perhaps one of NYAR CDs?
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I am preparing to go in for a pair of the omens in blue with some mission speaker cables and power cables. From what I hear the Omen is most like the Druid in the "definition" of the speaker. But have more the traits of the soul's frequency response - most notable changes are in the bass and in the upper mid-range. The Omen drivers are modified Druid drivers while the Soul uses a whole new driver system.
I was elated because I have been considering the soul superfly for a long time and it has been just outside my price range. I am also purchasing a Peachtree Nova to drive the darn things. Synergistic super bang-for-the-buck.
I am saving money because I am downsizing a Harbeth system.
Sam
Good stuff.
Not sure about the drivers tho. They all look like modified Eminence widebanders.....
(http://images.thomann.de/pics/prod/187154.jpg)
(http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/4moons/8.jpg)
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We will also need some quality tracks that we are all familiar with.
Perhaps one of NYAR CDs?
Right....music is not a problem.
I'll "whip up" a nice selection of tunes....get it off to everyone....so they get to know them all. :wink:
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Right....music is not a problem.
I'll "whip up" a nice selection of tunes....get it off to everyone....so they get to know them all. :wink:
SUPER!
Thanks Chris :thumb:
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New guy's first post here. Just want to say Hi and that I'm watching this thread and anxiously awaiting the result of this fun fest.
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New guy's first post here. Just want to say Hi and that I'm watching this thread and anxiously awaiting the result of this fun fest.
Hello Beerbudget
1st - warm welcome to Audio Circle
2nd - like your username
3th - just like you, I am anxiously awaiting both speakers.
Once they arrive, I'll try my best to report about experiences with both speakers, companies, setup, associated gear, lots of pictures etc.
I hope that you & others will find it interesting and informative.
Best
Mariusz
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HI Mariusz,
Which speakers are you waiting for? I was considering ordering the Omens and the Superfly's to compare with my Essence, but it just seems like a bit much....will wait to hear more from you guys :D
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HI Mariusz,
Which speakers are you waiting for? I was considering ordering the Omens and the Superfly's to compare with my Essence, but it just seems like a bit much....will wait to hear more from you guys :D
Thread started with questions and speculations about Zu Omen and its value. Along the thread came the news about new speakers coming out from Tekton Design named Lore. Zu Omens have been ordered but thought of similar speakers with similar drivers, price, size and design foundation was intriguing.
Making the long story short - owner of Tekton Design agreed to send a pair of his new Lore speakers for evaluation and comperison reasons.
Anywhere between beginning and the end of November we should have both speakers in house. :thumb:
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Hey Mariusz,
Do you have any previous experience with Zu? I'm still a virgin in that regard, but when the Druids arrive on Friday, they will be fully broken in. My understanding is they need around 250-300 hours to open up.
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Hey Mariusz,
Do you have any previous experience with Zu? I'm still a virgin in that regard, but when the Druids arrive on Friday, they will be fully broken in. My understanding is they need around 250-300 hours to open up.
To some extent, yes.
Several audio shows ( which were all poorly setup & sounded terrible ) & few home/dealer setups (much better).
My experience is limited to Druids and Definition (maybe Essence too).
Mariusz :thumb:
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Even with a lot of prior hours on them, I'd crank them for a couple days while at the office before getting too critical... if only to give them the benefit of the doubt.
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Hi,
anyone received a pair yet? Are they still offering those at introductory price in the US?
Thanks,
Jouni
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Are they still offering those at introductory price in the US?
Looks like still at introductory pricing:
http://omen.zuaudio.com/
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Still waiting for my pair :(
But they already promote new Omen Def.
(http://static.ow.ly/photos/thumb/5jbU.jpg)
(http://s3.amazonaws.com/twitpic/photos/large/191533279.jpg?AWSAccessKeyId=0ZRYP5X5F6FSMBCCSE82&Expires=1289612103&Signature=TmPf1kcgrFAv7OHefyT2iSQYg4U%3D)
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And for those from Tekton fan club - cool test and intro on you tube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3YcdZEbKTDU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vm6jHGQEmog
:thumb:
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Anyone got a pair in yet? please post impressions. thank you!
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There's a thread on the Omens over at audioreview.com. If you read the second page of posts, a guy name Poultrygeist has them and has posted some early listening impressions.
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Man, Mariusz,
I thought you ordered yours pretty quickly, but where are you now in their delivery times?
That is some serious downtime.
I clicked this thread just to read your impressions.
Lyndon
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Hey Lyndon
You're right - it has been a while.
From email received today (from FedEx not Zu) it appears that my rustic red pair is ready for pick up from Zu factory. Delivery estimated date - Nov. 19th.
Fingers crossed.
:thumb:
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Hey Lyndon
You're right - it has been a while.
From email received today (from FedEx not Zu) it appears that my rustic red pair is ready for pick up from Zu factory. Delivery estimated date - Nov. 19th.
Fingers crossed.
:thumb:
You should see the Zu factory. Every available inch was covered in Omens. They've apparently sold over 200 pairs already. I'm sure your pair was in there, and the red really does look good in person.
From talking to Kristian they expect the new Omen Definition to be a big seller, and the Omen line is expanding even further. Pictures of the center channel have been released, and that's really just the beginning.
Oh, and this is me:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=38544)
The green is... interesting... but they sound great!
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Those green Souls look amazing!
Did you pick those up from Zu?
BTW. Looks like a great bounding trip. :thumb:
and that's for feedback......
Mariusz
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They look like green pair from RMAF that were raffled off. I can thank that green pair for the enjoyment I am now getting out of my Superfly's. All you guys getting the Omen, having heard them, they are excellent as well.
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They look like green pair from RMAF that were raffled off.
Correct. I can't tell you how excited I was when they called and told me that I won, even if it was on the first day of a 2-week business trip and I knew I wouldn't be able to pick them up until afterwards. I had decided to purchase a pair of Omens based on what I heard at RMAF and my current budgetary restrictions, so filling out that piece of paper ultimately saved me a lot of cash. I'm glad you like your pair. I'm certainly enjoying these.
Mariusz - I did pick them up directly from Zu. I live in Salt Lake City; the drive up to their factory only takes 30-40 minutes. I've been up twice, once right after the Soul Superfly was released and again this last week. To say that they appear busier now barely begins to describe it.
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Wow themadmilkman !!!
I guess that green represents the lucky shamrock?
There was one other finish that is IMO priceless - kids art cover speakers which were donated for action.
Very cool. (and important gesture)
Mariusz :thumb:
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Omens are here!
......... in one piece. :thumb:
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Congrats!!!!! Look good do they???
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Alright!!!!
Get them half out of the boxes, hook 'em up to the Coby system, go with
Meatloaf's chosen nectar, warm Fresca with gin, and let the good tunes flow. Afterward, when you can't discern the anitfreeze from the Fresca,
hook up those speakers to the regular system. You won't believe how great they sound.
All the best, Mariusz! :thumb: :lol: :lol:
Lyndon
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Oh no. They are out of the box all right..... and playing. :wink:
Setup in a rush with iPod/Onkyo iTransporter (AKA Wadia clone), Wyred4Sound 2 DAC, my weirdo 6J5 based preamp, Decware monoblocks (5wpc).
For now Omens will remain in smaller room.
After I put some hours on them, they shall go to main listening room. :thumb:
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Congrats!!!!! Look good do they???
Hi Ed
Finish is very good but not really accurate in reference to what you see on their website. I'll take some pictures oven the next few days and post more initial impressions. :thumb:
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Mariusz -- Congrats again you Zu fool you!!! Enjoy, crank it up, send your wife shopping and let me hear them in Allentown... :beer: :drums:
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Omens are here!
......... in one piece. :thumb:
Congrats, Mariusz! I didn't have such a good luck with shipping - one of the speakers injured from the front corner :cry:. Otherwise they do look really nice at ghost black.
jouni
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That's too bad about the banged up speaker but I'm sure Zu will take care of you.
Looking forward to hearing impressions of the Omen, I'm really enjoying my Superflys.
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Congrats, Mariusz! I didn't have such a good luck with shipping - one of the speakers injured from the front corner :cry:. Otherwise they do look really nice at ghost black.
jouni
Hi Jouni
Sorry to hear about that.
My Omen boxes also show some trauma and I was prepared for the worst.
Miraculously, they survived this painful ordeal unscathed.
Hopefully you will resolve this issue and get some music playing soon.
Mariusz
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Ok I will spill the beans. If the deals are good I may grab a pair
http://zuaudio.com/
check out Black Friday sales section
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Ok I will spill the beans. If the deals are good I may grab a pair
http://zuaudio.com/
check out Black Friday sales section
For $999, there is very little to complain about.
I could have been more critical if the asking price increased by a factor of X3.
Zu recommends 400+ hours of break-in time. Not sure if I can wait that long......... (that's almost 17 days straight)
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For $999, there is very little to complain about.
I could have been more critical if the asking price increased by a factor of X3.
Zu recommends 400+ hours of break-in time. Not sure if I can wait that long......... (that's almost 17 days straight)
Did you see they have a $40,000 speaker on its way.
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Hey Mariusz....are they shouty?? How would you describe the sound so far, tight bass? Give us some dirt here on these Omens!!!!
....and pictures
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Did you see they have a $40,000 speaker on its way.
Yeah...... It does what it should - create buzz
Hey Mariusz....are they shouty?? How would you describe the sound so far, tight bass? Give us some dirt here on these Omens!!!!
....and pictures
Out of the box they sound fine. Bass is probably what surprised me the most. 2nd most obvious thing was tweeter interaction with the main driver. Yes, you can tell that it was crossed pretty high. Not really shouty......, actually hights seems to be a bit laid back. In short, these are not the most forward sounding speakers that I've heard. And that's a fact.
Bass is solid, kind of tuneful and not directional.
I do not have a luxury of a large, dedicated listening space, but in smaller to medium size rooms you won't probably need or want to add another boom box. More later.
I did not take any photos yet except this iPhone quickie:
(http://lh3.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TOhd_R4lXYI/AAAAAAAAA3w/j6EIz2FHwgU/s512/sjmDUXGvS0Kd.jpg)
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That's too bad about the banged up speaker but I'm sure Zu will take care of you.
Yeah, I know they will. Funny thing, this wasn't a first time such thing happening to me with speakers. When I got my first Omega 8"s, boxes were totally ok but both whizzer cones of the 8" drivers were broken, completely out of shape..??? Seems like I'm haunted by a bad omen here :icon_twisted: :lol:!
jouni
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Don't worry jouni, your Omen will change for the better.
Are you getting another pair of Omens?
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Cool looking room Mariusz. I can't see the boundaries, but your speaker placement looks similar to how I had my Soul Superflys at first. They benefitted a lot from greater spacing.
Is Zu having a better impression on you this time around? I find my Superflys intoxicating and it isn't wearing off with time.
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Don't worry jouni, your Omen will change for the better.
Are you getting another pair of Omens?
Don't know yet - just a one speaker or a pair? I suppose Gerrit at Zu who is the Shipping Manager is taking care of this..waiting his reply @ the moment.
jouni
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Yeah...... It does what it should - create buzz
Out of the box they sound fine. Bass is probably what surprised me the most. 2nd most obvious thing was tweeter interaction with the main driver. Yes, you can tell that it was crossed pretty high. Not really shouty......, actually hights seems to be a bit laid back. In short, these are not the most forward sounding speakers that I've heard. And that's a fact.
Bass is solid, kind of tuneful and not directional.
I do not have a luxury of a large, dedicated listening space, but in smaller to medium size rooms you won't probably need or want to add another boom box. More later.
I did not take any photos yet except this iPhone quickie:
(http://lh3.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TOhd_R4lXYI/AAAAAAAAA3w/j6EIz2FHwgU/s512/sjmDUXGvS0Kd.jpg)
What system pic is complete without a pair of pliers or screwdriver in the pic. :thumb: Looking good, I'm waiting to see how things unfold... I've had my eye on the Zu stuff for sometime now but like anyone else, a bit apprehensive about buying something unheard.
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Marius, they look good. I've been playing around with placement but it's a small room so not a lot of options. At the moment they are set up like this and I think it's working for me. They are 6'5" center of driver to center of driver:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v285/mbakes/823d373d.png)
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What system pic is complete without a pair of pliers or screwdriver in the pic. :thumb: Looking good, I'm waiting to see how things unfold... I've had my eye on the Zu stuff for sometime now but like anyone else, a bit apprehensive about buying something unheard.
You haven't seen back of the room ........... :lol:
As to your interest in Zu speakers...... well, no one can figure it out better then you.
Ofcause you already know that. There are many factors which will determine if the sound you hear, features and price are what you were looking for. And do not forget about compromises (every speaker has those) which you will need to learn to accept and ignore.
So, as you said "buying something unheard" is certainly difficult decision. But, ...... 60 days in home trial seems like a sound proposition (if needed, Zu might give you additional 14 days - totaling 74days). You can always send it back if things do not work out the way you hoped for. And do not forget - because someone loves it/hates is, doesn't mean a freakin thing. You do not need anyone's approval to enjoy music. :thumb:
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Marius, they look good. I've been playing around with placement but it's a small room so not a lot of options. At the moment they are set up like this and I think it's working for me. They are 6'5" center of driver to center of driver:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v285/mbakes/823d373d.png)
Hey mbakes
Nice setup - both digital & analog :thumb:
Your speaker placement looks similar to what it is going to look like in the main listening room. :wink:
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Thanks. The only thing missing on the digital end is m Sonic Studio Amarra 4, which is out for repair.
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Zu recommends 400+ hours of break-in time. Not sure if I can wait that long......... (that's almost 17 days straight)
To do a fair comparison....I'd go by what they say.... :wink:
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To do a fair comparison....I'd ogo by what they say.... :wink:
True. Besides, I need to break-in few cables, Dodd buffer and Wyred4Sound 2 DAC. :duh:
Anyway, it is going to be a while before comperison takes place because of some component shortage at Tekton. But I have been told that we are still doing that and pair of Lores will eventually make it over here.
But there is no pressure - I understand that it might be troublesome for companies run by one man does it all like Tekton. In the worst case scenario, we will focus strictly on Omens. :thumb:
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............. 8)
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Zu Black Friday Sale ,Yummy
http://www.zuaudio.com/blackfriday/
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Is anyone else out there confused about the differences between the old Druid and the new Omen and Soul?
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Is anyone else out there confused about the differences between the old Druid and the new Omen and Soul?
I'm confused with the Omen Def. vs. the Soul Superfly. They are priced within $100 of each other, so which is better and how would one choose between the two? :scratch:
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Check out the comparison chart link which opens a PDF file that will assist you. I have the Superfly and was wondering whether the Omen Def would have an advantage for me. I noticed on the chart there is a mention of a Superfly Definition which was mentioned at RMAF somewhat cryptically. I was told not to hold off on the Superfly and if, when they come out I want to upgrade they would work something out with me.
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I'm confused with the Omen Def. vs. the Soul Superfly. They are priced within $100 of each other, so which is better and how would one choose between the two? :scratch:
At the Black Friday prices, you've got the Soul Superly, Omen Def, and Essence all within $200 of each other. How would you choose?
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Flip a coin!
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Or take a look at this chart I referenced 2 or 3 posts earlier: http://www.zuaudio.com/pdfs/ComparisonChartLsWEB.pdf
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At the Black Friday prices, you've got the Soul Superly, Omen Def, and Essence all within $200 of each other. How would you choose?
I was told Omen was more geared towards solid state amps v/s Soul and Essense for tube amps.
The comparision chart is also help: http://www.zuaudio.com/pdfs/comparisonchartlsweb.pdf
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mariusz, not sure which decware amps you have, but if they are anything like mine were, (also 5wpc), i'd recommend getting something else to try w/the zu's. my decware amps really did not like any speakers higher than 8 ohms, and they preferred 4 ohms. they were completely lifeless driving 14 ohm 97db-efficient coincident wictory's, which are an extremely easy speaker to drive... i had (and still have) several other 4-8wpc tube amps that were heavenly w/the coincidents...
ymmv,
doug s.
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I was told Omen was more geared towards solid state amps v/s Soul and Essense for tube amps.
The comparision chart is also help: http://www.zuaudio.com/pdfs/comparisonchartlsweb.pdf
Interesting chart, thanks. Helps a little. One must trust the scale of "fair-good-excellent-awesome". Interesting times....
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mariusz, not sure which decware amps you have, but if they are anything like mine were, (also 5wpc), i'd recommend getting something else to try w/the zu's. my decware amps really did not like any speakers higher than 8 ohms, and they preferred 4 ohms. they were completely lifeless driving 14 ohm 97db-efficient coincident wictory's, which are an extremely easy speaker to drive... i had (and still have) several other 4-8wpc tube amps that were heavenly w/the coincidents...
ymmv,
doug s.
.....or I could get a receiver (I think I still have Yamaha 3090 somewhere), which according to chart, brings excellent results across the board. :lol:
But seriously,
I did not get Zu Omens expecting miracles but use it as reference, inexpensive, high efficiency, commercial design speakers to compare my diy speaker adventures to. And yes, there are plans to use amps other then Decware SV83M.
So, is Zu Omen the greatest value in today's hifi world...........? We shall see.
But regardless of what Omens might sound like after the break in period, I would say that these speakers have so much going for them self that passing on the "in home trial" and generous promotional savings might be very regretful for those who are in the market for speakers of that kind and in that price range.
The only alternatives to my knowledge, which might be considered alternatives to Zu Omens are speakers from Omega, Tekton and perhaps Hornshoppe speakers.
Mariusz :thumb:
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Topic was briefly locked due to unexplained (most likely accidental mishap) reasons but it is back to normal now.
Thanks Shadowlight for bringing it up to my attention. :thumb:
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.....or I could get a receiver (I think I still have Yamaha 3090 somewhere), which according to chart, brings excellent results across the board. :lol:
mariusz, the point i was trying to make is that the 5w decware amps (unless specially configured for higher-ohm speakers) truly suck w/higher-ohm speakers, imo... definitely try other amps... :wink:
doug s.
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So I've been following this thread for weeks and I think the Tekton's just are not getting any love! Doesn't anyone else own a pair of Tektons? I've had mine for maybe a month. I'd say they might have a 100 hours or so on them.
I originally inquired about the Lore. After talking to Eric, we came up with something he thought might work better for me, given my room, system and music preferences. Mine are kind of a cross between the old and new Katz Meow speaker, finished in walnut. They feature the cabinet and Fostex driver from the original Katz with the Audax gold tweeter from the new version. I was offered this speaker in black for $850.00, plus shipping. I wanted them finished in walnut. As it was, I was able to have this speaker, finished in walnut, delivered to my house at right around $1200.00.
My listening room is tiny, maybe 10' X 12'. My music preference is classical, acoustic, classical, jazz, classical, rock, classical, rock and, oh yeah, classical.
The rest of my system is a Clearaudio Concept with a Maestro MM cartridge, PS Audio phono stage, Denon 2900 used as a transport with a PS Audio DAC, an itty bitty Parasound tuner, a Conrad Johnson Classic preamp [no longer for sale] and, last but not least, an Almarro A205mk.II integrated [with Gold Lion tubes], used here as a power amp. All cabling is mid level Audioquest.
This system puts out a stunning 5wpc. The Tektons just fly with the 5 watts. If I could describe the sound, the first word that comes to mind would be "clean". Tone is spot on, great dynamics, great detail. Excellent bass response. Right out of the box, they were ugly. Within around an hour or so, they started making music. They continue to sound better and better, the more I play them.
They are so clean sounding, they take a little getting used to. I am appreciating the bass in these more and more. At first listen, one might think they are bass shy. Not so. It's back to that clean thing again. If bass is in the recording, the Tektons will play it. The bass presentation is different from what you hear on regular loudspeakers but it's certainly there. You get used to it pretty quick. I expect these will continue to get better yet as more music is played through them.
No idea how they would stack up against the Zu but I'm happy with them. Eric Alexander mentioned that they Lore was designed for people who want to rock. In a big room. He said these would offer a more refined, detailed sound while working much better in my tiny listening room. He was right, I love them! Anyone around Baltimore interested in hearing them is welcome to drop by for a visit. There are a few more pics in my gallery.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=39061)
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I just made the call and ordered the new Omen Def's as Zu now offers free shipping in both directions ( if you decide to return) along with a 60 day trial.....will let you know my impressions after i get them in.
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So I've been following this thread for weeks and I think the Tekton's just are not getting any love!
Agreed, although i love the look of the Soul and Superfly cabinets, they are much more expensive.
I hope to read more comments and user reviews on these Tektons and i hope Mariusz will get a pair for review.
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AWESOME MORGANC!!!
You will have to report on your experience there--I'm VERY curious about the Omen Defs. I suspect that will be a very special speaker as well. I avoided Zu for years after owning a BoK cable I wasn't crazy about--the way the Druids were described made me feel they would have a weird house sound... Since jumping on the Soul Superflys however I'm turning into a real fan boy!
Very special loudspeakers that have pleased me greatly in my time with them. The Zu103 I'm using on my tonearm ain't too shabby either!
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I'm thinking of sending my 103 for some Zu work. Everything sounds so good now I don't want to mess with it.
I'm waiting for the Superfly Definition.
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Here are few quick shots for your pleasure
From the listening chair
(http://lh4.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TO3vtuB4I6I/AAAAAAAAA6E/G771SLraVgk/IMG_1726.JPG)
Better view of a single speaker with some jewelery shots
(http://lh3.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TO3vumH7mRI/AAAAAAAAA6I/PFvrAxdurJ8/s512/IMG_1728.JPG) (http://lh6.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TO3vomAW_5I/AAAAAAAAA6c/n4wmP0qc9bw/IMG_1717.JPG) (http://lh6.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TO3vntlCosI/AAAAAAAAA6U/Br4ulBTvXqI/IMG_1715.JPG)
Closeup of the drivers
(http://lh4.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TO3vrCIaAnI/AAAAAAAAA58/NjlIs2Wox1Q/s512/IMG_1723.JPG) (http://lh4.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TO3vloVUx3I/AAAAAAAAA5o/VcuxtAZl5EI/s512/IMG_1711.JPG) (http://lh5.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TO3vmdlW0bI/AAAAAAAAA5s/to-mZdPsQ1A/s512/IMG_1713.JPG)
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Since the Omen is only 3 Ft. tall....have you experimented in raising them a bit higher ? :scratch:
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Since the Omen is only 3 Ft. tall....have you experimented in raising them a bit higher ? :scratch:
From Zu's site
"Omen has been designed to account for its shorter stature. Placing its full-range 10" driver on top and then time-aligning the super-tweeter to "tilt" the sound in a slight upward direction allows Omen to sound larger and taller than it is. Users can also adjust the feet in the Omen to lean the face of the speaker back further tailoring the sound and loudspeakers integration with the room.
Omen ships with both ball end footers, to be used for ward wood floors; and long spikes to be used for carpeted floors. Omen requires at least a 1/4" (6mm) of space between the speaker bottom and the flooring--if you can't pass a CD jewel case between the floor and speaker bottom, you need to adjust the feet so you can. "
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Yes I did.
Tricky business adjusting those feet. 1/8 of an inch makes quite a difference.
In my opinion, tilting the speaker helps little as far as soundstage is concern.
Not that it doesn't help/change the sound staging but compromising bass reproduction is too much of a tradeoff.
(Sansui 330 vintage receiver will take over the breaking-in duties for the next week or so - 24/7)
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OK - thanks....but still...a short speaker.
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Here are few quick shots for your pleasure
From the listening chair
(http://lh4.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TO3vtuB4I6I/AAAAAAAAA6E/G771SLraVgk/IMG_1726.JPG)
Better view of a single speaker with some jewelery shots
(http://lh3.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TO3vumH7mRI/AAAAAAAAA6I/PFvrAxdurJ8/s512/IMG_1728.JPG) (http://lh6.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TO3vomAW_5I/AAAAAAAAA6c/n4wmP0qc9bw/IMG_1717.JPG) (http://lh6.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TO3vntlCosI/AAAAAAAAA6U/Br4ulBTvXqI/IMG_1715.JPG)
Closeup of the drivers
(http://lh4.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TO3vrCIaAnI/AAAAAAAAA58/NjlIs2Wox1Q/s512/IMG_1723.JPG) (http://lh4.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TO3vloVUx3I/AAAAAAAAA5o/VcuxtAZl5EI/s512/IMG_1711.JPG) (http://lh5.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TO3vmdlW0bI/AAAAAAAAA5s/to-mZdPsQ1A/s512/IMG_1713.JPG)
Great pics! Those are beautiful speakers and I've been quietly following this thread. If I hadn't just had our 3rd baby I'd probably pick up a set just to try out. Can't wait to hear how the comparison goes!!
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Skeeter, just sell all those Rocket's you have :thumb:
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I'll try some 4-6 inch platforms to elevate Omens' tweeter/main driver to more appropriate height. My only concern is bottom bass loading. :scratch:
Hey skeeter99
Thanks and it's my pleasure.
Congratulations on new baby :thumb:
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Skeeter, just sell all those Rocket's you have :thumb:
I don't have Rockets anymore, just Mini's/X-Voce/Dual MFW's (don't laugh, they're 1st gens and running fantastic) and a set of X-LS in Piano Rosewood. I sold my Rockets to my father in law :)
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I'll try some 4-6 inch platforms to elevate Omens' tweeter/main driver to more appropriate height. My only concern is bottom bass loading. :scratch:
Hey skeeter99
Thanks and it's my pleasure.
Congratulations on new baby :thumb:
Your pics are fantastic. Great lighting and detail. And thanks about the baby, he's great :)
Scott
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I'll try some 4-6 inch platforms to elevate Omens' tweeter/main driver to more appropriate height. My only concern is bottom bass loading. :scratch:
I don't think the bottom bass loading would be affected. From what I recall the only consideration for the Soul and Omen is that the base of the speaker be at least 1/4" off of the floor.
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Do they vent out of the bottom?
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Do they vent out of the bottom?
They do (4 thin slots). That's why spacing between speaker and surface is crucial in getting bass just right.
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wazzup w/zu's black friday sale webpage? now prices are higher than retail. maybe they will change tomorrow?
while certainly not "cheap and cheerful", i think i would like to hear the soul def - even tho it's not out yet - if zu, in its comparison chart, says these are "awesome" and "excellent" in resolution of tone and detail, maybe they would acceptable for me for a main system... detail, especially, is where zu falls down, for a speaker i could live with long term in a main system...
doug s.
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wazzup w/zu's black friday sale webpage? now prices are higher than retail. maybe they will change tomorrow?
while certainly not "cheap and cheerful", i think i would like to hear the soul def - even tho it's not out yet - if zu, in its comparison chart, says these are "awesome" and "excellent" in resolution of tone and detail, maybe they would acceptable for me for a main system... detail, especially, is where zu falls down, for a speaker i could live with long term in a main system...
doug s.
It shows sale prices on me end
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MariusZ,
I was awakened in the middle of the night, by the rattling of ice encrusted branches hitting each other in the sub-zero land of Utah.
I arose to get a glass of water, and took a peek at AC, to see those gorgeous photos you posted! :o
It was like Christmas!
You said:
They do (4 thin slots). That's why spacing between speaker and surface is crucial in getting bass just right
I assume you mean that the placement of the tweeter under the midrange is not hitting your ear level when sitting down? And you are trying to elevate the speaker without screwing up the porting on the bottom? That would concern me as well. Hope you can work it out. Thanks again, Mariusz, for running the cheap and cheerful forum. It is one of my favorites! Happy Holidays!
Lyndon
7 degrees at 9:20 AM, with 13 mph winds. Brrrrrrrrrrr
Time to fire up the tube amps! I need the Kronzillas!!!! :lol:
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wazzup w/zu's black friday sale webpage? now prices are higher than retail. maybe they will change tomorrow?
Only people in the U.S. see the sale prices, everyone else sees "international" prices. Really confusing.
There's another thread about it here: http://forums.audioreview.com/showthread.php?t=35613.
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"7 degrees at 9:20 AM, with 13 mph winds. Brrrrrrrrrrr"
Now that's a nut crashing temperature!!!!
My body shivers just thinking about that. :lol:
Happy Thanksgiving and glad to hear someone else other then myself likes this circle and what we do here. It's a join effort of many. Unfortunately they can not respond. They're too busy crashing doors down in local chain stores. :lol:
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Regarding Zu pricing - I found prices as advertised.
There were some website glitches (I couldn't place the order for speaker cables last night) but I think it had to do with Black Friday sale and small issues with new website. I was able to place my order around 5am this morning. It was confirm via email confirmation 30 min. later.
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Lyndon...
7 degrees at 9:20 AM, with 13 mph winds. Brrrrrrrrrrr
As Mariusz says...shivers....please keep that weather out west....thanks. :bounce:
Hope you had a happy day.... :thumb:
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Only people in the U.S. see the sale prices, everyone else sees "international" prices. Really confusing.
There's another thread about it here: http://forums.audioreview.com/showthread.php?t=35613.
aha! i live in the usa, but am presently on location on a project in latvia...
thanks for the head's up...
doug s.
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Thanks for the thoughts Mariusz and Wolfy.
I am heading to bed in the L.L. Bean Farmer Johns, merino wool socks, and have an electric mattress pad heater.
Have a great holiday weekend listening to great music.
Just finished watching the excellent documentary on Harry Nilsson's life.
What a great talent. I'm going to have to dig up my VHS copy of "The Point" Can't get "Me and My Arrow" out of my head.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51HDnOgHrpL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
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Anyone considering the Omen Definitions @ today's Black Friday price?
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(http://vgonpic4.audiogon.com/i/delr/banr/f/1290833082.jpg)
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Mariusz,
I just received a pair in "red". Wow... 400 hours for break in... :slap:
I guess its time to get serious about break in ...wire one spk out of phase & place face to face, and throw a couple of sleeping bags over them with the receiver in mono turned up for a couple of weeks... :sleep:
I wonder what happened to the "dark smokey red"? I guess I was expecting something like dark cherry like the pre production pics. The sangria color looks closer to purple / goofy grape in the sunlight... :dunno:
They sound OK out of the box but I will hold off until they are broken in and have a chance to try to find an amp that they really sing with... :banana piano:
My current candidate for cheap & cheerful is a pair of JBL JRX 215's with Selenium 220ti drivers to replace the blown stock ones I got from CL with a total investment of $350... :dance:
After break in on the old Kenwood ss receiver, I will be amping mine with a sweet 6V6 Audio Space mini (approx 14watts) and a vintage Trio EL84 pp W45.
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Hey YoMoCo
Yes, yes and yes.
Yes, color is different then meets the eye. Their original color samples look totally different from production boxes. Even the most recent pictures of finishes do not tell the whole story. Personally, I like the finish but it is tricky to capture its true character. This shade of red and finish will change depending on light quality, kind, day or night. Not sure if I was able to capture this finish accurately (a bit too warm colors perhaps) but that is pretty much what they look like in this room and lighting.
Yes, break-in is a pain. I left them on 24/7 in my other house and will check on them tomorrow (100 hour +). Due to extended sale I took a bait and bought their speaker cables (makes sense - same cable used between binding posts and drivers). FWIW - Mini Audio Space should sound great with your Zu. Heard that combo once - it worked great.
And yes on the crowning Zu Omen the "Cheap and Cheerful hifi" speaker of all time. For one, it is too early. Yes, I know, everybody thinks it should be easier
to determine their qualities and shortcomings. I could do that but it wouldn't be beneficial to anybody and it could create spontaneous buzz which is not healthy or cheap. I am still hoping to hear back from Tekton about their Lores. I believe that it would be interesting to say the least. If not, I could ask Louis of Omega for one of his new, budget creations or cook up some DIY speakers in similar price range, cosmetics, footprint, spects. :scratch:
Please post your impressions once you'll find the right amp and put some hours on those new Omens of yours.
Cheers
Mariusz :thumb:
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I agree with you reserving judgment on the speakers until they log some serious hours, but you don't have to literally hide them away for weeks. Crank 'em out of phase with the blankets on for 3 or four days and then listen to them develop naturally. Thats a part of the fun with new speakers IMO (admittedly less fun with components and cables...)
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I don't understand all this waiting. I got my Superflys home, unpacked them and started enjoying them.
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Zu starts break in for their more upscale products at the factory. The budget omen does not have that labor cost built / or priced into it...so it is left to the end user who usually gladly pays less for the omen and takes care of it them self.
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I have some Omen Def in Natural coming to me soon :)
I am towards the top of the list,
Sam
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Thanks for the thoughts Mariusz and Wolfy.
I am heading to bed in the L.L. Bean Farmer Johns, merino wool socks, and have an electric mattress pad heater.
Have a great holiday weekend listening to great music.
Just finished watching the excellent documentary on Harry Nilsson's life.
What a great talent. I'm going to have to dig up my VHS copy of "The Point" Can't get "Me and My Arrow" out of my head.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51HDnOgHrpL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
I was just thinking of his excellent tongue-in-cheek song "Joy" today:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7v_v7xbagY
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I don't understand all this waiting. I got my Superflys home, unpacked them and started enjoying them.
If they were my only speakers, I would certainly listen to them on daily bases.
But they are not. Besides, I am a bit busy finishing my non audio work/projects and that is probably why you do not hear me rushing into my listening room with Omens and trying to get a grasp of their characteristics.
Tomorrow, I will try to take few shots with drivers removed. Hell, these are my speakers right. :wink:
P.S
My modified Fostex were breaking in for more then 500h and I still believe they're getting better. :scratch:
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Zu starts break in for their more upscale products at the factory. The budget omen does not have that labor cost built / or priced into it...
Some how labor cost just doesn't sound right... However if that is a fitting description of what it takes to break in speakers, or any other kind of audio gear, a life sentence in prison may not be so bad after all. :lol:
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When I ordered my omen's zu offered a 1,2 or 3 week break in option at no extra charge. I asked them to go ahead and break them in for 3 weeks and they said sure no problem. They are scheduled to be shipped out next week.
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After doing some more web research...the high power break-in option is only mentioned if YOU ask about it at time of ordering... :duh:
I would have sprung for the max (3weeks?) if I had known. This is probably more for those of us who hope to use lower power tubes/chip amps for the final setup after the 400hrs...patience is a virtue... :roll:
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Even though the Cheap and Cheerful HiFi Guidlines, say
"Individual components shouldn't exceed $350, however in cases of full featured components like integrated amps with DAC, phonostage or headphone amp - its value can be as much as $650", Mariusz decided that these $999 speakers could also be included (he is the facilitator of this circle, after all!).
Well, according to the Zu Audio website, the introductory price has expired and they are now $1500 a pair. They might still be "Cheerful", but the $1500/pair standard price now invites a lot more comparisons and evaluations with other speakers.
Steve
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zu said they need power to break in properly the 2 watts i have just wouldn't do it.
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Some how labor cost just doesn't sound right... However if that is a fitting description of what it takes to break in speakers, or any other kind of audio gear, a life sentence in prison may not be so bad after all. :lol:
I recommend using the IsoTek System Enhancer (http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/isotek/cd.html) for reducing component / IC / etc break in time. Works very nicely / as advertised every time I use it; it also works nicely for system tune ups. Talk about cheap and cheerful!
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Even though the Cheap and Cheerful HiFi Guidlines, say
"Individual components shouldn't exceed $350, however in cases of full featured components like integrated amps with DAC, phonostage or headphone amp - its value can be as much as $650", Mariusz decided that these $999 speakers could also be included (he is the facilitator of this circle, after all!).
Well, according to the Zu Audio website, the introductory price has expired and they are now $1500 a pair. They might still be "Cheerful", but the $1500/pair standard price now invites a lot more comparisons and evaluations with other speakers.
Steve
Music Direct is now selling the Essence, Soul and Omen. The Omens are listed at $999.00
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Even though the Cheap and Cheerful HiFi Guidlines, say
"Individual components shouldn't exceed $350, however in cases of full featured components like integrated amps with DAC, phonostage or headphone amp - its value can be as much as $650", Mariusz decided that these $999 speakers could also be included (he is the facilitator of this circle, after all!).
Well, according to the Zu Audio website, the introductory price has expired and they are now $1500 a pair. They might still be "Cheerful", but the $1500/pair standard price now invites a lot more comparisons and evaluations with other speakers.
Steve
Music Direct is now selling the Essence, Soul and Omen. The Omens are listed at $999.00
Ispec2, consider using the Quote function to differentiate your own comments from those you are quoting.
Steve
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Sorry Steve I tried but couldn't do it.
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Well, according to the Zu Audio website, the introductory price has expired and they are now $1500 a pair. They might still be "Cheerful", but the $1500/pair standard price now invites a lot more comparisons and evaluations with other speakers.
Steve
Music Direct is now selling the Essence, Soul and Omen. The Omens are listed at $999.00
Hey guys,
This is my first time posting here (I hang out on Head-Fi), but I've been interested in buying some Zu speakers for quite some time now. I just got off the phone with a nice lady at Zu. I mentioned that I had been out of the country for the Black Friday sale, so I was unable to purchase the Omens like I had intended. She said that technically they were still offering them for $999 because they were running a $999 ad in xyz magazine (maybe Audiophile? I can't remember what she said). Anyway, she recommended that I wait a week or so to make my purchase because they will soon be starting their "13 days of christmas" sale, and I might not want to miss out on what they will be offering. I can't say for sure, but I couldn't help but feel like she was giving me a hint.
Is it just me, or does it seem that their pricing is just as dynamic as their speakers? I'm not complaining.
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Music Direct catalog showed up today and the Zu Omens are priced at $999 so I think that will be around for awhile.
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Even though the Cheap and Cheerful HiFi Guidlines, say
"Individual components shouldn't exceed $350, however in cases of full featured components like integrated amps with DAC, phonostage or headphone amp - its value can be as much as $650", Mariusz decided that these $999 speakers could also be included (he is the facilitator of this circle, after all!).
Well, according to the Zu Audio website, the introductory price has expired and they are now $1500 a pair. They might still be "Cheerful", but the $1500/pair standard price now invites a lot more comparisons and evaluations with other speakers.
Steve
Hey Steve
It appears that Zu Omens still are available at discount prices. Besides, with a bit of luck, Omens could be purchased for even less on used market.
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Well, it's very odd because if you go to the website, it says $1500, and if you add a pair to the shopping cart they go into the cart for $1500. So apparently, unless you talk to a sales rep on the phone or order through a vendor like Music Direct, you will get charged an extra $500.
?
It appears that Zu Omens still are available at discount prices. Besides, with a bit of luck, Omens could be purchased for even less on used market.
Of course once the price does go back up officially to $1500, used ones will probably sell for more than $999!
Steve
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Mariusz how do they sound??
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Will post some more later tonight.
This time Zu will be paired with 300b monos.
These amps output more then 3X what Decware monos are capable of.
Stay tuned .........
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Well, it's very odd because if you go to the website, it says $1500, and if you add a pair to the shopping cart they go into the cart for $1500. So apparently, unless you talk to a sales rep on the phone or order through a vendor like Music Direct, you will get charged an extra $500.
?
Of course once the price does go back up officially to $1500, used ones will probably sell for more than $999!
Steve
I'll sell my pair for less - when:if I get the upgrade bug. :lol:
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Music Direct's website currently lists the Omen at $999.00. Zu Audio's website lists the Omen at $1500.00. Does anyone else find this odd? Does anyone have a US email address for a contact at ZU Audio? I could not find one on their website.
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info@zuaudio.com
Try this email to contact Zu Audio
The pricing reflects aggressive marketing which seems chaotic but it sure is effective.
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Music Direct's website currently lists the Omen at $999.00. Zu Audio's website lists the Omen at $1500.00. Does anyone else find this odd? Does anyone have a US email address for a contact at ZU Audio? I could not find one on their website.
May be the MD website has an issue, may be something Zu is allowing - who knows? The manufacturer may want to opine in this and other forums regarding the topic to set things straight.
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I sure would like to see a head to head between this ZU Omen and the Tekton design Lore.
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Pics and short impression after 150h coming up shortly :wink:
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Zu doesn't seem to be so stiff on the pricing. If you talk to a rep and mention "the $999 ad" that you saw in an audio magazine, they will be happy to ship some your way. As for Music Direct, they can sell the speakers for any price they wish. They probably have a stock that they purchased for less than $999/pair.
Zu's marketing strategy works, but they will want to be more careful in the future with their huge sales and introductory pricing. It doesn't benefit them to have sold X number of pairs to vendors at $999; a price low enough that vendors can still make a profit and undermine sales on Zu's own site. They might find themselves with a saturated market and buyers who wont pay the extra $500 to have speakers directly from the manufacturer.
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As promised, here are few more shots of today's setup - 300B SEP monoblocks replaced Decware 5wpc monos. Omens also clocked around 150 hours of play time (24/7 for 6 days straight + initial test drive) and some improvements were noticed in bass reproduction and layering/soundstage.
I also have a bunch of interconnects to test for upcoming shoot-out and some changes were made there as well.
(http://lh4.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TPXj354fG-I/AAAAAAAAA7U/p-itDiAT3BE/s512/IMG_9837.JPG)
(http://lh5.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TPXj_lhBJYI/AAAAAAAAA7s/Ra0wT-OJafQ/IMG_9843.JPG)
(http://lh4.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TPXkAgbcmSI/AAAAAAAAA7w/BxdQhknlsPA/IMG_9847.JPG)
(http://lh5.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TPXkC11g_NI/AAAAAAAAA74/m2wiiqZkjPY/IMG_9850.JPG)
to be continue.........
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Mariusz,
As usual, nice shots!
Will be looking forward to more updates tomorrow.
Lyndon
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more pics:
(http://lh6.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TPXkGoASC6I/AAAAAAAAA8E/0urFqBigr9Q/IMG_9853.JPG)
So....., any improvement over 5wpc Decware amps???? IMO, Yes and it wasn't just subtle differences. First of all Electra Print 300b monoblocks (2 300b per side) offer more then 3X the muscle then SV83M Decware amps. That extra power contributed to more pronounced layering, more effortless reproduction, more robust bass and micro-dynamics. All these beneficial improvements contributed to music reproduction which took Omens to another level. Ofcause, magical qualities associated with seductiveness of queen 300b tubes didn't hurt either.
Just to give you few examples of music played tonight (it was a long session):
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51RQVS%2BLE1L._SS400_.jpg)
Sax & Bass at its best - sounds great on Omens
Samples (http://www.amazon.com/Dialogues-Houston-Person/dp/B000067FVF)
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/411BJEMHXWL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
Samples (http://www.amazon.com/Upstairs-at-Erics-Yaz/dp/B000002KYC)
Cool album with some great tracks - sounds great on some speakers and just so,so on others. Omens seem to like this group a lot.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51nOK-mIf9L._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
Samples (http://www.amazon.com/Trickle-OLIVE/dp/B00004TCPI)
Now, if you really want to test your speakers/amp setup try track number 6 called "Indulge Me".
If your amp(s) can sail through beginning of the track (15-25sec) without choking, then you certainly have enough headroom and shouldn't worry about power issue. However, I must warn you to be cautious when playing this track. It will test your system and can damage your drivers. Start at moderate levels - say 70-80db just to be on the safe side.
This track proves that Omens might need a bit more then 10-20wpc ( I still love my 300b monos ).
From what I heard tonight, I shall conclude that even 40wpc might not be enough to provide optimum headroom and power necessary for those demanding passages and micro-dynamics.
Do not get me wrong - you will most likely going to be fine with conservatively rated amp or even one of those lovely SET amps in most rooms and with most music, however. You will need a lot more then that to push these speakers in larger rooms, with most demanding music at levels resembling live performances ( or even close to it).
[side note - my DIY back-loaded horns with single, full range Jordan driver per side did not put as much stress on my Electra Print 300B monos as Zu Omens did.]
And last but not least - Song that is quite depressing and you probably heard it on numerous occasions (pet rescue commercial comes to mind). If you like to hear some great female vocal, check it out. "Nouvelle" by Jorane , 16mm.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31QGBMFJVBL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
[for this audition cables used were: interconnects from Morrow, Audio Art. Speaker cables - Morrow, PC - Signal Cable, Kimber Kable. Conditioning by - CIA for digital and Majik Buss for everything else.]
Next: Omens inside pics .......
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And some insider, secret shots :icon_twisted::
(I can see what they had to do in order to meet the projected price)
(http://lh6.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TPXkOwUR55I/AAAAAAAAA8g/960dh0tG_o8/s512/IMG_9865.JPG) (http://lh6.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TPXkQwH5a2I/AAAAAAAAA8o/GUOxT6Ie7Kc/s512/IMG_9867.JPG)
(http://lh3.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TPXkRz-yQMI/AAAAAAAAA8s/j-0DXwQUqY0/s512/IMG_9868.JPG) (http://lh3.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TPXkSrAnR3I/AAAAAAAAA8w/mOgw5pWFFbU/s512/IMG_9869.JPG)
(http://lh5.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TPXkT5S0ApI/AAAAAAAAA80/mNxndIWCmuc/s512/IMG_9871.JPG) (http://lh6.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TPXkU3Ux_5I/AAAAAAAAA84/gONn_NCT9A8/IMG_9873.JPG)
(http://lh5.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TPXkVkIxx3I/AAAAAAAAA88/iL0IAGMR42E/IMG_9875.JPG)
Sides of the Omens could use some of that special dampening paint used on Superfly brother ( composite treatment process).
ZuRG pyramid seems to be hit with economy stick.
I couldn't see parts used in filter network which was hot glued or poxy to the back of the tweeter but I am sure there is some room for improvement there as well. With few inexpensive tweaks, Omens could get a face lift and possible gain in SQ. (That part should be fun)
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...First of all Electra Print 300b monoblocks (2 300b per side) offer more then 3X the muscle then SV83M Decware amps. That extra power contributed to more pronounced layering, more effortless reproduction, more robust bass and micro-dynamics. All these beneficial improvements contributed to music reproduction which took Omens to another level. Of course, magical qualities associated with seductiveness of queen 300b tubes didn't hurt either...
mariusz, as i was saying before, about your decware amps - w/the omens, your 300b's are offering at least 6x the muscle of the decware amps. no way you are getting more than 2-3w out of the sv83m's into the omen's 12 ohm load...
doug s.
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use a mirror to look down the cabinet
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Hi Doug
Omens do drop to 6 Ohms.
Even with Decware monos, I was able to play Omens at 105db peaks without any problems.
It is the headroom that chokes the music presentation. (yes, I know, Decware like 2-4 Ohm loads)
With Cheap and Cheerful in mind, pairing Omens with MiniWatt integrated would be the right thing to do but I can't help but wonder if those few watts of muscle can move those Zu drivers in the right direction........ :scratch: Probably not.
I also have Virtue Audio Sensation integrated amp with Dodd Audio buffer. Not sure how that's going to play out but it doesn't hurt to try. :thumb:
use a mirror to look down the cabinet
There is nothing there...... trust me.
Pyramid is made out of an acoustic foam (no mdf or ply was used).
There is no additional cabinet dampening or secret elf tuning the slot ports to sound its best (except the top of the cabinet).
At the bottom of the cabinet all you see is 4 port slots, that's it. (what if the mirror breaks :duh: - the last 3 years haven't been that great. Another 7 would push me over board)
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I sure would like to see a head to head between this ZU Omen and the Tekton design Lore.
Hey! Me too! :duel: :dunno:
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And some insider, secret shots :icon_twisted::
(I can see what they had to do in order to meet the projected price)
(http://lh6.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TPXkOwUR55I/AAAAAAAAA8g/960dh0tG_o8/s512/IMG_9865.JPG) (http://lh6.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TPXkQwH5a2I/AAAAAAAAA8o/GUOxT6Ie7Kc/s512/IMG_9867.JPG)
(http://lh3.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TPXkRz-yQMI/AAAAAAAAA8s/j-0DXwQUqY0/s512/IMG_9868.JPG) (http://lh3.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TPXkSrAnR3I/AAAAAAAAA8w/mOgw5pWFFbU/s512/IMG_9869.JPG)
(http://lh5.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TPXkT5S0ApI/AAAAAAAAA80/mNxndIWCmuc/s512/IMG_9871.JPG) (http://lh6.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TPXkU3Ux_5I/AAAAAAAAA84/gONn_NCT9A8/IMG_9873.JPG)
(http://lh5.ggpht.com/_cxpOm-0ohxo/TPXkVkIxx3I/AAAAAAAAA88/iL0IAGMR42E/IMG_9875.JPG)
Sides of the Omens could use some of that special dampening paint used on Superfly brother ( composite treatment process).
ZuRG pyramid seems to be hit with economy stick.
I couldn't see parts used in filter network which was hot glued or poxy to the back of the tweeter but I am sure there is some room for improvement there as well. With few inexpensive tweaks, Omens could get a face lift and possible gain in SQ. (That part should be fun)
Man those really look like they need some dampening material in there for resonance issues. Looks awfully stark ...
Beautiful pics as always though :)
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Quietcoat or soundpaint, waterbased panel damping is around $70 and 2 Mundorf sio caps $80.. Cheap upgrades all in all!
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Quietcoat or soundpaint, waterbased panel damping is around $70 and 2 Mundorf sio caps $80.. Cheap upgrades all in all!
Anybody got links/source for Quietcoat (not a wholesale warehouse). I would also like to find out if Zu would be OK with these upgrades. Perhaps they could help out their customers with DIY kit for Omen owners?
Anyway, experimenting with cabinet dampening could help in clearing up some smearing in middle range, clarity and airiness.
It's a GREAT speaker but there are things which can make Omens even better. I know.......it is hard to squeez all that performance in a speaker under a grand but those are simply suggestions and issues which may or may not be important to potential buyer.
Few tweaks that come to mind:
- quietcoat paint
- extra interior wall dampening
- cap upgrade
- additional driver basket dampening
There is few more less pronounce tweaks but those mentioned above should "up" Omen's SQ.
.....also, I am not sure if you guys noticed some comments around the net from Zu owners (Omen and similar) about effect of placing Zus on top of area rug or carpet. Reported improvements in bass reproduction and overall presentation could point to cabinet under-damping and fragile balancing act with port(s) to floor height adjustment and ratio.
P.S
Great album and test tracks for smearing of underdamped cabinet. Bass is great so are the strings but notice some smearing between individual instruments and clarity of voice.
Jacob Dylan
Seeing Things
"On up the mountain", "Will it grow".
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Soundcoat GP-1, Black Hole adhesive pads (VMPS style) or ? I have no experience with either one and they may be others...Percyaudio.com used to sell the Soundcoat although it looks like now they carry primarily SPECTRA DYNAMICS DEFLEX DAMPING products among others...
I do remember an acoustic treatment product used on HVAC air handlers several years age made out of two different densities of foam with a layer of dense (think lead sheet) in between.... :o
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Someone asked earlier (not sure who it was tho - Ed?)
If Omen drivers resemble some shortcomings of similar drivers? Biggest concern was - shouty presentation. That characteristic is found in extended range/full range drivers with wheezer used to disperse
high frequency. There are several full range drivers which were used in my DIY ventures and some are more fogiving then others. You can immune yourself to that phenomena but you will hear it if you want to.
Some horn speakers exhibit the same and sometimes far more pronounced shout effect.
Its part of the game and those sacrifices/shortcoming are to some degree a necessary evil.
Can you expect Zu drivers to poses these characteristics?
Truthfully, yes.
The real question is: how sensitive are you to this side effect and can you look the other way considering all other things Omens do right???
(those who are not familiar with shouty speakers/"phenomena",..... well, it is not easy to describe but if you put your hands close to your mouth, form a horn and speak normally, you will get the idea of what it sounds like.)
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Soundcoat GP-1, Black Hole adhesive pads (VMPS style) or ? I have no experience with either one and they may be others...Percyaudio.com used to sell the Soundcoat although it looks like now they carry primarily SPECTRA DYNAMICS DEFLEX DAMPING products among others...
I do remember an acoustic treatment product used on HVAC air handlers several years age made out of two different densities of foam with a layer of dense (think lead sheet) in between.... :o
Thanks, I'll look into it.
New damping panels from PE look and sound quite good (used it in small monitors - 3/4" thick) but could be too pricey for Omen project ( less then $100 per side - could be the reason why Zu went with more efficient Quietcoat..).
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I sure would like to see a head to head between this ZU Omen and the Tekton design Lore.
Hey! Me too! :duel: :dunno:
I was interested in putting together a system for a son.... he needed money for a car instead.
I was leaning towards the Lore as its 8 ohm 98db 1W@1m sounded like a good match for low watt amps.
Right now my cheap system speakers are Tube Audio Design 805SD and Paul's sub that went with them.
Might twist off on the Lore or ZU for something different.
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When it comes to modding a product it might be a good idea to stick to only to reversible mods. I've seen people ruin their gear with 'great ideas' only to make things worse and ultimately non-sellable.
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You can't go wrong with No Rez by GR Research. Here is a pic of me installing it in my current project. That little Harbor Freight tool works great for cutting it because it is surprisingly heavy and hard to cut.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=39344)
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I just ordered some more (6) Sonic Barrier 3/4" 3-Layer Damping Material w/PSA (18" x 24" each) from PE. Total - $100.14 + free shipping (now they offer free shipping on all orders of $40 & up). You will probably need 5 panels for Omens. That will cost more or less the same as Quietcoat but totally reversible if effects are going to be less then desirable. I'll definitely try those in Omens and report back. Also, I am going to build some sand boxes with dimensions of 16"x16"x6" to raise these speakers off the floor but preserve functionality of down firing slot ports. I feel that placing Omens on platforms of the exact same dimensions could affect the bass loading of a speaker. To be honest, I am wondering if raising Omens will be practical and if it will yield desirable effect. But that's what makes this hobby a fun venture for me.
HT cOz
Danny's stuff is great and I would use it if it was more sensibly priced. (including shipping)
Good luck with your build. Looks good. :wink:
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Another forum's thread re: Omens (http://forums.audioreview.com/showthread.php?t=35184). Some comment about Omen v. Tekton.
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Read it but..... It is like comparing apples to oranges.
(full range single Fostex in different enclosure to Zus pro, modified, extended range driver/ribbon "super-tweeter")
What I am interested in, is direct Omen to Lore comparison. (similar cabinet volume, drivers and their orientation, price)
I haven't heard from Eric if he is still interested in comparison or if there is any progress in sourcing out parts for his Lores. For the time being, I'll just try to concentrate on Omens and getting the best out of them. I am glad to share my experiences with rest of AC community and hopefully make unbiased observations which might help someone make up their own mind about these speakers.
:wink:
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I have raised the Omens about 4" from the floor. Listening distance is some 12-14'. And they are some 8-9' apart. I'm using brass spiked maple (2") platforms, 15x15" made by Timbernation. I used to use them under my Omega 8"XRSs as well. I think the performance of the Omens won't suffer, actually I like them a lot. And they also look pretty good. Pics will follow later.
I'm driving them with my 15W Tektron EL34 PSE amp, the sound is powerful, surprisingly smooth, dynamic and quite big, even though I'm using only my EE DAC's own volume control, so no any special preamp in the chain at the moment. That'll be taken care in the future though. Cables used Zu's Mission loudspeaker cable and Chimera DIY ics.
I used to own the Druids some years ago..so even not broken in yet, I'd say, Zu's sound has progressed and took some healthy steps for the better. But I do also recognize the famous Zu sound here - but I like it!
These do ROCK!
jouni
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It would be good to find out what "degree of tilt/lift" Zu gave to the forward lobe via the crossover to steer the tilt up the acoustic center focus due to cabinet height and placement of tweeter below the driver...that would be useful to know to aim for room placement / distance / elevation of speakers. I am more of a fan of tilting the cab as opposed to crossover steering. :shake:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=39470)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=39471)
Also finding out how changing the spacing / distance beneath the cab to the Zu slots affects bass & room integration would be interesting... :dunno:
I am still under 100 hours so can't get too serious yet on any conclusions but it is very interesting the changes in sound as the clock ticks on...400hrs seems to be the magic number for that... Wink2
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Read it but..... It is like comparing apples to oranges.
(full range single Fostex in different enclosure to Zus pro, modified, extended range driver/ribbon "super-tweeter")
What I am interested in, is direct Omen to Lore comparison. (similar cabinet volume, drivers and their orientation, price)
I haven't heard from Eric if he is still interested in comparison or if there is any progress in sourcing out parts for his Lores. For the time being, I'll just try to concentrate on Omens and getting the best out of them. I am glad to share my experiences with rest of AC community and hopefully make unbiased observations which might help someone make up their own mind about these speakers.
:wink:
I'm hoping to hear something about this as well. I emailed Eric about a week ago regarding purchasing some Lores and haven't heard anything back. It's odd because I've purchased speakers from him before and he's always been a pleasure to work with. So it's an issue sourcing parts?
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(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=39470)
Having a solid surface rather than carpet underneath has a big impact on the bass with a speaker that vents out of the bottom. However my concern with the speaker tilted as such without being anchored down to the plinth is gravity + vibration = trouble.
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Having a solid surface rather than carpet underneath has a big impact on the bass with a speaker that vents out of the bottom. However my concern with the speaker tilted as such without being anchored down to the plinth is gravity + vibration = trouble.
Definately will address but during breakin...not so much until after the Zu400 hour meter. I will be keeping an eye out for larger and heavier pads maybe some weight on the top of the cab to load too... :thumb:
Looking forward to finding out about the PE pads application, Mariusz. Keep us posted.
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Having a solid surface rather than carpet underneath has a big impact on the bass with a speaker that vents out of the bottom. However my concern with the speaker tilted as such without being anchored down to the plinth is gravity + vibration = trouble.
Tilt option/recommendations by Zu is not only impractical due to:
•Steep slope necessary to compensate for shorter listener-to-speaker distance and ear level height
• weird effect of bottom bass loading arrangement. Where in some instances, back of the speaker must be lowered almost to "0" clearance and front raised as much as 1 inch or even more. Because "ports"/slots are placed on all 4 sides of the bottom of the speaker, at least one "port"/slot will end up with almost no clearance. That might be also true for 2 side slots/ports. This arrangement might be even more problematic if speakers end up placed on think carpet or area rug.
• and last but not least - timing and phase coherence. Zu Omens seem to be sailing against the wind. And it appears that unless Zu engineering included some kind of compensation network in their crossover to correct this (I doubt it), Omen's setup could be very difficult (if not impossible) to get it right. Unless you're less sensitive to drivers timing, alignment, phase compensation.
but..
the whole process is kind of awkward.
Definately will address but during breakin...not so much until after the Zu400 hour meter. I will be keeping an eye out for larger and heavier pads maybe some weight on the top of the cab to load too... :thumb:
Looking forward to finding out about the PE pads application, Mariusz. Keep us posted.
Hi there
Foam pads I ordered will substitute Quietcoat acoustic paint. Same price but totally reversible affair.
P.S
To reduce tilt and possibility of crashing backwards (with help of kids, pets ... wives), raising speakers could make a lot of sense. It shouldn't be difficult to try. Use Zu own packing (top/bottom) foam squares. Place wood board or plywood on top of it, then speakers... viola :thumb:
If you like what you hear, look for more sound solution like - butcher block with heavy feet from Mapleshade or ........ Well, just use your imagination. :wink:
:thumb:
I have raised the Omens about 4" from the floor. Listening distance is some 12-14'. And they are some 8-9' apart. I'm using brass spiked maple (2") platforms, 15x15" made by Timbernation. I used to use them under my Omega 8"XRSs as well. I think the performance of the Omens won't suffer, actually I like them a lot. And they also look pretty good. Pics will follow later.
I'm driving them with my 15W Tektron EL34 PSE amp, the sound is powerful, surprisingly smooth, dynamic and quite big, even though I'm using only my EE DAC's own volume control, so no any special preamp in the chain at the moment. That'll be taken care in the future though. Cables used Zu's Mission loudspeaker cable and Chimera DIY ics.
I used to own the Druids some years ago..so even not broken in yet, I'd say, Zu's sound has progressed and took some healthy steps for the better. But I do also recognize the famous Zu sound here - but I like it!
These do ROCK!
jouni
Glad to hear you like your new Omens.
How is that raising Omens working out for you?
BTW very nice amp you got there. :wink:
:beer:
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Link to Sonic Barrier from PE - click here (http://www.parts-express.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?Partnumber=260-530#windowcontent) :thumb:
(http://www.parts-express.com/images/item_large/260-530_L.jpg)
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Omens B-stock $799
Now that's definitely cheerful!!!!!
BTW. Panels came in - will cut and post my findings over the weekend.
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Here's an easy way I was able to get a very stable backward tilt on the Omens while raising them off the floor a bit:
I replaced the factory carpet spikes with (4) 3 x 3/8 inch hex bolts for the front legs and (4) 2 X 3/8 inch hex bolts for the rear legs. I used the partially threaded bolts from Home Depot so the threads are not visable and the bolt heads make nice looking feet. I'm getting tighter bass with the increased distance from the floor and with the back of the speakers lower than the front dispersion is improved.
Each Omen now rests on two commercial grade floor mats from HD glued together. The material is acoustically dead with no reflection.
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I probably won't dampen the Omens but if I did I might go with Lowe's Peel and Stick which is cheap and deader than Dynamat. I recently helped a friend dampen his truck and the stuff works great.
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They also have some B-stock cables listed for 75% off.
I havent tried them, but that makes for some cheap, sub $100 mission wiring to go with the omens.
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Omen Defs in the house :D.....they just arrived and out of the box are a significant upgrade in my space over the Essence. As my girlfriend says, it feels like we are at the concert. I am especially drawn to the very spacious sound stage, the increased bass, and the livliness of the presentation. I am no expert audiophile, and I am not usually able to describe very eloquently that which I hear, but I can say that these rock :thumb: :thumb:
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Omen Defs in the house :D.....they just arrived and out of the box are a significant upgrade in my space over the Essence. As my girlfriend says, it feels like we are at the concert. I am especially drawn to the very spacious sound stage, the increased bass, and the livliness of the presentation. I am no expert audiophile, and I am not usually able to describe very eloquently that which I hear, but I can say that these rock :thumb: :thumb:
Lucky you! Zus latest moves have turned me into a real fan boy! I'm very curious about the Omen Defs and the upcoming Soul Defs.
My Superflys keep me very happy, but its hard to ignore what these guys are working on.
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Here's an easy way I was able to get a very stable backward tilt on the Omens while raising them off the floor a bit:
I replaced the factory carpet spikes with (4) 3 x 3/8 inch hex bolts for the front legs and (4) 2 X 3/8 inch hex bolts for the rear legs. I used the partially threaded bolts from Home Depot so the threads are not visable and the bolt heads make nice looking feet. I'm getting tighter bass with the increased distance from the floor and with the back of the speakers lower than the front dispersion is improved.
Each Omen now rests on two commercial grade floor mats from HD glued together. The material is acoustically dead with no reflection.
Got to post a picture of your leg setup...I am running about 200 easy breakin hours so far, so I am still only half way to Zu land...I am going to have to check out the bolt raising for base tuning thang :thumb:
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Lucky you! Zus latest moves have turned me into a real fan boy! I'm very curious about the Omen Defs and the upcoming Soul Defs.
My Superflys keep me very happy, but its hard to ignore what these guys are working on.
I think a pair of the B stock omens would be an easy way to evaluate.....and with 60 days and shipping covered both ways.....no brainer....I even considered ordering a pair just to compare the two.
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I think a pair of the B stock omens would be an easy way to evaluate.....and with 60 days and shipping covered both ways.....no brainer....I even considered ordering a pair just to compare the two.
I actually already own the Zu Soul Superflys so my curiosity is limited to the Omen Def and upcoming Soul Def (and dominance which is anything but cheap).
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The leg mod is so easy it doesn't warrant a picture. Just buy the 2 and 3 inch hex bolts ( lag bolts not lag screws ) in 3/8 size for $3.00 at HD or Lowes. Shorter legs in the back do not make the Omens unstable as the driver weight is in the front.
The cheapo standard hard surface feet on the Omens are nothing but cut off 3/8 threaded rods. Someone might want to experiment with different lengths of hex bolts to see what works best. For no good reason I selected the 2 inchers for the back and three inchers for the front but it works well and looks good. If drilling stone wasn't such a pain I'd mount longer leg bolts to black polished granite bases.
I'm pretty happy with the Omens paired with a modded MiniWatt but the Omens are a lot of speaker for my modest sized 15x15 listening room. I suspect the extra driver the Defs employ would have been overkill in my small space.
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Omens B-stock $799
Now that's definitely cheerful!!!!!
BTW. Panels came in - will cut and post my findings over the weekend.
Must resist. It doesn't look like you can choose a color. Also gets free shipping.
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WOW at $799 with free shipping I wish I had waited. The black finish on my Omens isn't perfect as there are some light smudges but dang if I'd send them back.
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WOW at $799 with free shipping I wish I had waited. The black finish on my Omens isn't perfect as there are some light smudges but dang if I'd send them back.
How about some pictures
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$200 is not a lot left over for electronics.
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$200 is not a lot left over for electronics.
Don't need any . I heard the Zu's run off of the Butler 2250 . While not the same speaker , I think the Omen will handle it. If not, ship them back
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=39869)
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Have you guys seen all the crap they're pilling on in package deals?
http://www.zuaudio.com/holiday/
Particularly interesting in the Omen/Virtue/Mission speaker cable package at $1500 shipped.
I don't know what the strategy is, as you can't really consider it a loss leader when they're selling you the complete system...
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What worries me is another company used to do the same thing and now they are no more
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Would be interesting if they are adopting some of that company's business model which I think worked well enough it was other stuff that caused their demise. I like Zu and think with some mass exposure and a proper plan they could thrive beyond the hi-fi scene.
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Would be interesting if they are adopting some of that company's business model which I think worked well enough it was other stuff that caused their demise. I like Zu and think with some mass exposure and a proper plan they could thrive beyond the hi-fi scene.
I agree whole heartedly
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There is a plan in place and it does involve transcending into other markets than just the hifi crowd, but I'm pretty stunned at what they are able to let stuff go for.
Freight alone on a pair of speakers has gotta be over a hundred bucks, adding in the cost of labor/materials, their state of the art paint booths and equipment, etc and now clearing enough profit to share profits with other manufacturers for their bundles and it just seems like the margins have to be thin.
I'm no economist and I know from conversations their new CEO is very intelligent, but at least this phase of their new business model looks too good to be sustained.
Don't get me wrong, I'm trying to convince my little brother to take advantage and buy some B-stock omens :)
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I think a pair of the B stock omens would be an easy way to evaluate.....and with 60 days and shipping covered both ways.....no brainer....I even considered ordering a pair just to compare the two.
I called about the B-stocks and was told there's no return the B-stocks.
Were you told otherwise?
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Particularly interesting in the Omen/Virtue/Mission speaker cable package at $1500 shipped.
Yes, that, and the Omen/Decco2 combo. Figure the Omen at the BF $999 and 3.0 Mission LC at BF $200, which make the Decco2 and Virtue Two.2 very attractively priced in those combos pricing. Not in the market for either, otherwise I will have to lock up my wallet and credit cards.
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I was not told otherwise, I guess I just assumed it based on my original purchase. However, if they are even as close to as good as the Omen Def's, then they are a good deal for sure.
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$799 Omen speakers
$300 Dodd buffer kit
$220 Class D amp kit
Add DAC, wireless streamer or cheap Oppo player and you got awesome little system.
And I guaranty that it will put many, far more expensive systems to shame.
Took advantage of B stock sale and bought phono 1.5m cable for $99 ($399 list). :duh:
I can get used to these prices...... :icon_twisted:
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I was not told otherwise, I guess I just assumed it based on my original purchase. However, if they are even as close to as good as the Omen Def's, then they are a good deal for sure.
Oh, I see.
BTW, congrats on the Omen Defs!
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I have the Sure TK2050 Class D board amp + Meanwell PS from Parts Express and with a tube pre it's a fine match for the Omens.
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Oh, I see.
BTW, congrats on the Omen Defs!
Thanks! I am very impressed with the Omen Def's. I spent a lot of time moving the speakers around and my furniture yesterday and already they are so much more impressive than any other speaker I have had in my system.
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So I've been following this thread for weeks and I think the Tekton's just are not getting any love! Doesn't anyone else own a pair of Tektons? I've had mine for maybe a month. I'd say they might have a 100 hours or so on them.
I originally inquired about the Lore. After talking to Eric, we came up with something he thought might work better for me, given my room, system and music preferences. Mine are kind of a cross between the old and new Katz Meow speaker, finished in walnut. They feature the cabinet and Fostex driver from the original Katz with the Audax gold tweeter from the new version. I was offered this speaker in black for $850.00, plus shipping. I wanted them finished in walnut. As it was, I was able to have this speaker, finished in walnut, delivered to my house at right around $1200.00.
My listening room is tiny, maybe 10' X 12'. My music preference is classical, acoustic, classical, jazz, classical, rock, classical, rock and, oh yeah, classical.
The rest of my system is a Clearaudio Concept with a Maestro MM cartridge, PS Audio phono stage, Denon 2900 used as a transport with a PS Audio DAC, an itty bitty Parasound tuner, a Conrad Johnson Classic preamp [no longer for sale] and, last but not least, an Almarro A205mk.II integrated [with Gold Lion tubes], used here as a power amp. All cabling is mid level Audioquest.
This system puts out a stunning 5wpc. The Tektons just fly with the 5 watts. If I could describe the sound, the first word that comes to mind would be "clean". Tone is spot on, great dynamics, great detail. Excellent bass response. Right out of the box, they were ugly. Within around an hour or so, they started making music. They continue to sound better and better, the more I play them.
They are so clean sounding, they take a little getting used to. I am appreciating the bass in these more and more. At first listen, one might think they are bass shy. Not so. It's back to that clean thing again. If bass is in the recording, the Tektons will play it. The bass presentation is different from what you hear on regular loudspeakers but it's certainly there. You get used to it pretty quick. I expect these will continue to get better yet as more music is played through them.
No idea how they would stack up against the Zu but I'm happy with them. Eric Alexander mentioned that they Lore was designed for people who want to rock. In a big room. He said these would offer a more refined, detailed sound while working much better in my tiny listening room. He was right, I love them! Anyone around Baltimore interested in hearing them is welcome to drop by for a visit. There are a few more pics in my gallery.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=39061)
A little late with this post, just saw it.
I have the same Tekton Katz Meow you have, except mine has the bullet super tweeter, and black. I had them in my man cave and last weekend I brought them and my amp into the living room. I work from home and wanted to try having decent music playing while I work (can't stand my crappy desktop setup for long). After doing that I realized that having good tunes really changes my mood and my workday, so I looked to get another pair of speakers. Looked at Tekton Lore but with all the love / hate regarding the Zu stuff I figured it's a good time to try the Omens. I ordered a pair (MD @ $999). If the Omens better the Katz, I'll have them in my main rig. If not I'll either send them back or keep them in the living room. Not sure when I'll get them, probably at least 4 weeks. I'll post after I hear them.
As far as the Tektons are concerned - Fantastic speakers. These are my first full rangers and I really like them a lot. They really play well with my 2A3 SET amp for just about all types of music. Very smooth and intoxicating sound. Can't say enough about them. If I do send the Omens back I'll probably look to get the Lore from Eric.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=39995)
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I figured it's a good time to try the Omens... I'll post after I hear them.
Before drawing a conclusion, burn them in with some SS muscle. Not sure how many hours are required.
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Before drawing a conclusion, burn them in with some SS muscle. Not sure how many hours are required.
I plan to put the Omens in the man cave, close the door, and drive them with an old Yamaha R-2000 receiver, 150 watts. That'll teach 'em!
I won't do that "out of phase, facing each other, blanket over them" thing though, that's just a little too goofy for me.
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If this were a beauty contest the Omens would win hands down.
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Man, glad to see SOMEBODY else has a pair of the Tektons! I do have to agree with the last poster about the beauty contest. The Omens do win hands down. My walnut Tektons might not be the best looking speakers I've owned but they do sing! I suppose you could even call them ugly but I prefer funky. Not sure how many hours I have on the Tektons now but I'm finding I'm listening to more music than I have in years. To me, that's a good sign. Probably a good two hours a day or more. The Tektons keep sounding better and better, not sure how much more they might change. The bass has really come on. Either that or I'm really getting adjusted to what the Tektons do. Probably a little of both. In my small room, the 5 watt Almarro will drive them way louder than I'd care to listen. No problem running them with just a few watts. Just wish we were able to hear about the Tektons vs the Zu's head to head. My speakers do look funny but boy do they sing!
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What worries me is another company used to do the same thing and now they are no more
Why whatever company do you mean :lol:
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Here are a few of my pics.....no pro and the room is in disarray, but sounding much better :thumb:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=40014)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=40015)
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Here are a few of my pics.....no pro and the room is in disarray, but sounding much better :thumb:
Beautiful setup and the view is gorgeous! The rack looks like a Onix Rack 3 without one of the shelves ... Very nice!!
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Thanks.....it was an amazing sunset here Saturday with the fog rolling in. And good eyes on the rack.....it works great.....
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Thanks.....it was an amazing sunset here Saturday with the fog rolling in. And good eyes on the rack.....it works great.....
They are great racks, incredibly heavy and inert. I have one that's how I recognized it :thumb: Is that a Melody amp also?? I'm gonna have the new MK88 (http://reviews.audioreview.com/blog/melody-is-offering-a-special-introductory-pricing-on-the-mk88-tube-amp/) at my house for my GTG in January. MMM ... those things are hot!
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Yes it is a Melody I2A3 which seems to have good synergy with Zu. I tried a few others and i found this one to be my favorite so far. Good luck with the new amp......did you get a pair of Omens yet?
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Yes it is a Melody I2A3 which seems to have good synergy with Zu. I tried a few others and i found this one to be my favorite so far. Good luck with the new amp......did you get a pair of Omens yet?
The amp isn't mine, it will be here for the Onix/Melody GTG I'm hosting January 29th (details here: http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=87309.new#new). I've only heard the SP3 and I really liked it so I'm sure your I2A3 is fantastic! Really looking forward to hearing the MK88 too :)
I haven't ordered the Omens. I'd like to but have to come up with the cash first and with a newborn, my audio budget isn't what it used to be :duh: I'd really like to hear them though so if someone in the Seattle area has them, I'd love to come over for a listen!!
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I would suggest holding off on any evaluations as to what mods the Omen needs until after full break-in.
I'm not sure how similar the break-in characteristics are between the previous gen speaker found in the Druid's are to the new gen speakers but when I owned my Druids, the improvement in SQ was dramatic after full break-in. It also did not seem to me to be gradual. It went from sounding just ok to detailed/fluid/smooth like a flick of a light switch.
I just received my Omens last night and can tell they have a lot of potential. Just hoping they break-in as nicely as the Druid's did. Was very surprised at the bass extension on these speakers, far better than the Druid's.
also with my druid's, they took about 60-80 hours to show significant improvement in sq.
Anybody got links/source for Quietcoat (not a wholesale warehouse). I would also like to find out if Zu would be OK with these upgrades. Perhaps they could help out their customers with DIY kit for Omen owners?
Anyway, experimenting with cabinet dampening could help in clearing up some smearing in middle range, clarity and airiness.
It's a GREAT speaker but there are things which can make Omens even better. I know.......it is hard to squeez all that performance in a speaker under a grand but those are simply suggestions and issues which may or may not be important to potential buyer.
Few tweaks that come to mind:
- quietcoat paint
- extra interior wall dampening
- cap upgrade
- additional driver basket dampening
There is few more less pronounce tweaks but those mentioned above should "up" Omen's SQ.
.....also, I am not sure if you guys noticed some comments around the net from Zu owners (Omen and similar) about effect of placing Zus on top of area rug or carpet. Reported improvements in bass reproduction and overall presentation could point to cabinet under-damping and fragile balancing act with port(s) to floor height adjustment and ratio.
P.S
Great album and test tracks for smearing of underdamped cabinet. Bass is great so are the strings but notice some smearing between individual instruments and clarity of voice.
Jacob Dylan
Seeing Things
"On up the mountain", "Will it grow".
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No mods yet. I got about 250h on them.
Anyone knows capacitor count and values ???
Also which caps are recommended?
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Any significant improvement in sound quality of the spekers so far?
No mods yet. I got about 250h on them.
Anyone knows capacitor count and values ???
Also which caps are recommended?
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Any significant improvement in sound quality of the speakers so far?
I have approx 200 normal level listening hours on mine and have been listening to them almost every day and am noticing a gradual improvement in different areas almost every other day. Gradual improvement is the key word so far...still wish I had known about the factory conditioning / breakin option... :duh:
And yes I am still planning to do a high volume run when I leave for a couple of days. So far that only happens when I go out for a couple of hours at a time.
Still looking forward to more...It is starting to remind me of the Harbeth SHL5 sound which also uses a wideband driver with tweeter support... :icon_lol:
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Gradual improvement is the key word so far...still wish I had known about the factory conditioning / breakin option...
On 12/2 Zu quoted a price of $75/week to break in a pair of Omen Defs, "We'd be happy to burn them in, but we charge $75 per week to do so. Burning in requires space, manpower, and resources...so we charge by the week." I told them I thought the price reasonable but took a pass.
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So some factory burn in is no longer free? I can't blame them and their reasoning is legit along with the large pick up in volume they're undoubtedly receiving now--I just hope people don't judge the speakers too harshly. Most wideband drivers I've had experience with sound pretty hairy without any burn in.
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Any significant improvement in sound quality of the spekers so far?
Since I've moved on to interconnect comparison segment for Ch&Ch Circle (which was long overdue), time is kind of divided between few projects in hand. At the moment, Omens are facing each other, few inches apart and out of phase. Music is playing 24/7 at moderate levels.
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So some factory burn in is no longer free? I can't blame them and their reasoning is legit along with the large pick up in volume they're undoubtedly receiving now--I just hope people don't judge the speakers too harshly. Most wideband drivers I've had experience with sound pretty hairy without any burn in.
I just got clarification on this from Kristian at Zu. Normal factory burn in will still be provided with the Soul and Essence lines, but its being skipped on the Omens as a way to pass the savings on to the consumer. Respectable move and I like the philosophy.
Future Omen buyers, just be mindful that judgments should be reserved until those drivers see some hours.
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Future Omen buyers, just be mindful that judgments should be reserved until those drivers see some hours.
Well, not only Omen speakers or pro/extended range drivers but generally it applies to all new speakers. In case of full range drivers (or extended range drivers), it might take just a bit longer.
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Future Omen buyers, just be mindful that judgments should be reserved until those drivers see some hours.
I think the above advice prudent. Furthermore, Zu's 100% guarantee is for a 60 day period, so Omen purchasers may want to be mindful of starting to burn in new purchases ASAP to facilitate getting to hear all that the Zu's offer / help judge whether to keep the speakers or return them. I've got an old NAD 2200PE and matching pre that have been in attic storage for years that should do the trick for pushing extended 24/7 periods of current through the Omen Defs when they finally make it to the house (already forewarned my better half and got the anticipated nose wrinkle and eye twinkle a la "here we go again"; I'm sure some of you out there know what I mean.)
Earlier in this thread I posted comment / link related to a product that over time has proven to me it decreases burn in time substantively; I re-submit that comment here in case it may be helpful, but if mods feel it better to delete this part as redundant please do so:
I recommend using the IsoTek System Enhancer (http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/isotek/cd.html) for reducing component / IC / etc break in time. Works very nicely / as advertised every time I use it; it also works nicely for system tune ups. Talk about cheap and cheerful!
A side effect of the Isotek disc is that it also helps diminish the length of time you might witness the previously mentioned nose wrinkle and eye twinkle.
Looking forward to reading more comments about the Zu's including Omens/ Omen Defs, as orders are in time fulfilled from the post-Thanksgiving sale. I note my few interactions via e-mail with Zu's office have been friendly and informative, and that's always welcome from any manufacturer.
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Here are a few of my pics.....no pro and the room is in disarray, but sounding much better :thumb:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=40015)
Looks like you just put these up for sale (http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?spkrfull&1297561407&/ZU-Essence-Piano-Black:-Mint), what gives?
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Looks like you just put these up for sale (http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?spkrfull&1297561407&/ZU-Essence-Piano-Black:-Mint), what gives?
Looks like the sale is for the Essence, not the Omen defs. :)
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I received my omen's last week after the 3 week break in period at Zu. Zu said it would take a couple of days to settle in. That is a gross understatement. When people say wait until they are burned in to judge them they are absolutely correct. In the past week they have been all over the place started out very lean but open. This turned into really boomy bass and the sound was very speaker bound. At times one or the other has been louder. I have never experienced anything like this from a speaker breaking in.
In the last 2 days they have settled into a very balanced, open and grain free speaker. At this point I am impressed enough that I am going to return them and get a pair of the Omen Definitions. They also seem to have become more efficient with break in.
I haven't had a pair of wide-range drivers in the house in quite awhile and it hasn't taken long to remember what attracted me to the genre in the first place. For a boxed speaker the Zu's have an almost open baffle sound.
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For a boxed speaker the Zu's have an almost open baffle sound.
You have a point there. They are pretty unique.
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Hi skite30
Let me ask you, why you feel Defs would be a better fit for you?
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Looks like the sale is for the Essence, not the Omen defs. :)
Thank God for younger eyes! :duh:
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Looks like the sale is for the Essence, not the Omen defs. :)
Yes the Essence are for sale....they just don't fit in my room....I had numerous acoustical issues that I could not resolve.....Defs are not as high on the top end and are much less sensitive to room placement issues, though I have noticed big changes by moving the speakers a few inches.
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I am glad that you pointed out your break in experience.....mine has been very similar and I thought it was all in my head :o. Out of the box I was jumping for joy, then I experienced a lot of boominess, and I definitely had the experience of one speaker playing louder than the other at times........would love to hear your comparison of the Omens to the Defs when you receive them.
I received my omen's last week after the 3 week break in period at Zu. Zu said it would take a couple of days to settle in. That is a gross understatement. When people say wait until they are burned in to judge them they are absolutely correct. In the past week they have been all over the place started out very lean but open. This turned into really boomy bass and the sound was very speaker bound. At times one or the other has been louder. I have never experienced anything like this from a speaker breaking in.
In the last 2 days they have settled into a very balanced, open and grain free speaker. At this point I am impressed enough that I am going to return them and get a pair of the Omen Definitions. They also seem to have become more efficient with break in.
I haven't had a pair of wide-range drivers in the house in quite awhile and it hasn't taken long to remember what attracted me to the genre in the first place. For a boxed speaker the Zu's have an almost open baffle sound.
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I have several reasons to try out the def.s. According to Zu the 8 ohm tube taps work good with the Omen's but the same tap will work excellent with the def's. I have a large room and right now I am using some boundary reinforcement to get the bass I want. Zu says they sound better in a large room with more room around them instead of close to the walls. They also are letting me have them for the introductory price of 1799 with free shipping, and 60 days to make up my mind about them. Seemed like a no brainer to give them a try. I probably would not have gone the 2800 for them but that is due to personal finances and not on whether or not they are worth the 2800.
I was really surprised by one speaker sounding louder than the other and thought I needed a new hobby but when it would alternate between the speakers I figured it wasn't me after all. Glad to hear someone else experienced the same thing though.
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I received my omen's last week after the 3 week break in period at Zu. Zu said it would take a couple of days to settle in. That is a gross understatement. When people say wait until they are burned in to judge them they are absolutely correct. In the past week they have been all over the place started out very lean but open. This turned into really boomy bass and the sound was very speaker bound. At times one or the other has been louder. I have never experienced anything like this from a speaker breaking in.
In the last 2 days they have settled into a very balanced, open and grain free speaker. At this point I am impressed enough that I am going to return them and get a pair of the Omen Definitions. They also seem to have become more efficient with break in.
I haven't had a pair of wide-range drivers in the house in quite awhile and it hasn't taken long to remember what attracted me to the genre in the first place. For a boxed speaker the Zu's have an almost open baffle sound.
If I was tempted to want "more"... a cheaper way, I think I would like to try a "Halfler 4 speaker front and rear arrangement"...
I do realize this is getting WAY outside of the scope of the CHEAP Circle as are the Omen Def's at $2800...but especially if I had a receiver with A & B outputs or both, again with the rear wired out of phase from the fronts for "push / pull" operation and listener position half way between the fron ant rear channel, ... voila MORE...Hafler surround sound!!
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Shipping speakers over a long distance in cold weather can contribute to the need for a more prolonged break-in time.
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I have several reasons to try out the def.s. According to Zu the 8 ohm tube taps work good with the Omen's but the same tap will work excellent with the def's. I have a large room and right now I am using some boundary reinforcement to get the bass I want. Zu says they sound better in a large room with more room around them instead of close to the walls. They also are letting me have them for the introductory price of 1799 with free shipping, and 60 days to make up my mind about them. Seemed like a no brainer to give them a try. I probably would not have gone the 2800 for them but that is due to personal finances and not on whether or not they are worth the 2800.
I was really surprised by one speaker sounding louder than the other and thought I needed a new hobby but when it would alternate between the speakers I figured it wasn't me after all. Glad to hear someone else experienced the same thing though.
Got ya.
My room is kind of smallish, so no real need for more gut rumbling bass. ;)
Cheers
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Does anyone have a copy of that IsoTek disc they wouldn't mind loaning me? I'd like to see for myself if it works before purchasing one--also not sure where to buy.
I am tired of crap needing burn in. When I get home from a stressful day I just want to unwind and listen--not wait for things to reach their potential.
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Does anyone have a copy of that IsoTek disc they wouldn't mind loaning me? I'd like to see for myself if it works before purchasing one--also not sure where to buy.
I just ordered a new one off eBay for $35 shipped from "guitarplayer."
MusicDirect has it too.
And djbnh, thanks for the tip. The disc will definitely help me speedily burn in my Zu speakers (when they arrive).
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One of the simple advantages with just one midrange driver is a potential for more coherence in the midrange. Two drivers producing output in the midrange, unless carefully implemented, add only sound pressure and can take away from imaging and add a muddiness. That may not be a priority to some and is dependant on the original SQ (sound quality) of the recording, near field or farfield listening position, blah, blah, blah...link below for the technically inclined on crossover / implementation discussion... :roll:
http://techtalk.parts-express.com/showthread.php?p=1696638#post1696638
Might consider a "swarm config subwoofer plan" also before...movin' on up the line.. :?
http://www.audioasylum.com/reviews/Speakers/Audiokinesis/The-Swarm/speakers/247336.html
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Years ago I bought a pair of Cain and Cain Abbys over Zu Druids because although some of the reviews of the Zus spoke to me, they seemed like a VERY polarizing (love it or hate it) speaker.
I'm not seeing those polar thoughts on these new lines, but maybe some are keeping it to themselves: is anyone NOT thrilled with their latest Zu purchases?
I know my Souls make me smile daily...
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Still enjoying my Omens raised one inch higher in the front than in the rear. I have over 500 hours on them and it seems the sound keeps getting better.
Has anyone tried them with one of the lower powered SDS or CDA class D amps? I alternated between the 16 ohm and 8 ohm tap on a potent vintage tube amp and couldn't tell any difference. I'm not sure why the compatabilty chart states the Omens work best with a receiver or a tube amp with 16 ohm tap?
Of the amps I've tried I still prefer the MW.
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It seems to me that the non broken in sound of the Omens are far better than my old non-broken-in Druids ever were and i think alot of people who had negative things to say about the Druids really never gave them proper time to breakin. I'm very excited about how the Omens will sound once fully broken in if they sound this good with only about 30 hours on them.
Years ago I bought a pair of Cain and Cain Abbys over Zu Druids because although some of the reviews of the Zus spoke to me, they seemed like a VERY polarizing (love it or hate it) speaker.
I'm not seeing those polar thoughts on these new lines, but maybe some are keeping it to themselves: is anyone NOT thrilled with their latest Zu purchases?
I know my Souls make me smile daily...
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I'm running my omens with a Tact Millenium MKII Class D amp and am very happy with how they work with the Omens which is expected as they worked amazingly well with my old Druids.
But then again the Tact has worked with every single Speaker I've run them with. Amazing amp.
I've also recently placed my Omens on top of a pair of the Auralex Sub Isolation Platform. I"ll reserve comments until the speakers are fully broken in and can get a better chance to do more xtensive a/b comparisions. It's definitely tighted up the bass response of the cabinet.
Still enjoying my Omens raised one inch higher in the front than in the rear. I have over 500 hours on them and it seems the sound keeps getting better.
Has anyone tried them with one of the lower powered SDS or CDA class D amps? I alternated between the 16 ohm and 8 ohm tap on a potent vintage tube amp and couldn't tell any difference. I'm not sure why the compatabilty chart states the Omens work best with a receiver or a tube amp with 16 ohm tap?
Of the amps I've tried I still prefer the MW.
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Please let us know about the Auralex. I bought one for my Zu Method, but it's too small. Now its just sitting in the corner. I may get another and use them side by side. I could try a couple under my Superflys, but I'm sure the big sub would benefit more. The Superfly/Method combo may be overkill as I barely have any volume on the sub, but it seems to further solidify the soundstage, kick drums etc...
I am really impressed with the Superflys and their DL-103 cartridge as well. It's really hard to stop listening!
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I just ordered a new one off eBay for $35 shipped from "guitarplayer."
MusicDirect has it too.
And djbnh, thanks for the tip. The disc will definitely help me speedily burn in my Zu speakers (when they arrive).
NP, that's what these forums are about.
Re: "when they arrive" - I'm not expecting mine prior to the New Year, I accept that apparently Zu's small staff and the overwhelming consumer response to the Black Friday sale may mean shipments take longer to get out the door. Like booking a restaurant seating at the busiest time - ya gotta wait your turn.
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Here is my status report on progress toward breaking in. I figure I am about two thirds of the way to the big 400hr mark. Well I finally got my lil 'mens :lol: set up for really running in. Face to face set to mono on the FM receiver one speaker wired out of phase downstairs in the shop. Been running them about 12 plus hours a day at volume...pretty amazing how much cancellation happens in the upper freqs. Bought some 3" carriage bolts to replace the factory studs to raise the cabinets up...love those rounded heads. The amount of air coming out of the teardrop vents is pretty amazing at high volume...more later... :roll:
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at over 250 hours i would think that your speakers far more than ready to be just setup and listened to and enjoyed.
i only have 60 on mine and they already sound great.
Here is my status report on progress toward breaking in. I figure I am about two thirds of the way to the big 400hr mark. Well I finally got my lil 'mens :lol: set up for really running in. Face to face set to mono on the FM receiver one speaker wired out of phase downstairs in the shop. Been running them about 12 plus hours a day at volume...pretty amazing how much cancellation happens in the upper freqs. Bought some 3" carriage bolts to replace the factory studs to raise the cabinets up...love those rounded heads. The amount of air coming out of the teardrop vents is pretty amazing at high volume...more later... :roll:
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Re: "when they arrive" - I'm not expecting mine prior to the New Year, I accept that apparently Zu's small staff and the overwhelming consumer response to the Black Friday sale may mean shipments take longer to get out the door. Like booking a restaurant seating at the busiest time - ya gotta wait your turn.
Got my shipping notice from Zu yesterday and the spkrs are supposed to be here on 12/23 - that's pretty fast from UT to NH! Nice job, Zu!
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at over 250 hours i would think that your speakers far more than ready to be just setup and listened to and enjoyed.
i only have 60 on mine and they already sound great.
When I first got them I just listened to them and did enjoy them but the changes that I heard convinced me to pull them off regular listening and just do it properly for my particular application. If I was using my d class receiver instead of my lower power tubes long term, I could maybe be happy going the long listening route, but I do not normally listen at the same levels the "run in rig" is able to excercise them and hope that this will more quickly get them to their optimal zone...."all good things take time" :wink:
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Got my shipping notice from Zu yesterday and the spkrs are supposed to be here on 12/23 - that's pretty fast from UT to NH! Nice job, Zu!
Congrats on that! Mine's coming too, albeit across shorter distance! We both will be happy campers this Christmas! Cheers!
BTW, how will you be using your Isotek disc to break in the speakers? It will be the first time I am extensive breaking in of speakers using a disc, so thought I ask someone with experience. Thanks.
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Congrats on that! Mine's coming too, albeit across shorter distance! We both will be happy campers this Christmas! Cheers!
BTW, how will you be using your Isotek disc to break in the speakers? It will be the first time I am extensive breaking in of speakers using a disc, so thought I ask someone with experience. Thanks.
Congrats back at you and Merry Christmas to you and yours, as well as all readers of this thread and AudioCircles. :xmas: FedEx called today to confirm a 12/23 delivery, and the Mrs. volunteered to be home to provide the required signatures.
I am blessed with an understanding wife and a home with some room. I'll be hooking the Omen Defs up in part of my basement to an older NAD2200PE amp and an NAD 1240 preamp, using an older Sony cd changer as the source and decent back up cables/ICs for connections. Track 2 (track 1 is for small speakers, track 2 for larger ones) of the Isotek disc will be played 24/7 at average levels for 14 days, which my math indicates gives 336 hours of burn-in. [From my experience this should be more than adequate to give these speakers sufficient run in time; the Isotek disc has always done a very nice job of exercising amps (my mono amp mfgr required 400 hours for his amps, and 2 weeks with the disc was more than sufficient), spkr cables, ICs, preamps, etc. However, if it seems more time would be prudent, then I can add another week/7 days which brings burn-in to 504 hours and way more than Zu recommends.) I can check the sound periodically by dropping in a disc with which I'm familiar and monitor changes. After the 14-21 day burn-in, I'll bring the speakers up to my listening room, swap out my old speakers connect the Omen Defs, and start listening fmore tunes with which I'm familiar, reposition the speakers, listen, repeat, etc. I'm sure the Mrs. and friends will chime in with opinions and I think that's a good thing. Even if burn-in takes 21 days, I'll have more than enough time left of the 60-day trial period in which to make up my mind.
I note the Isotek disc can be used on your main system so you don't have to move the speakers twice. I decline this option because my regular system's CD player has some pretty pricey tubes. [However, if you have an old serviceable tape player, you could record the disc to tape and use the tape player as your burn in source. Not sure how the tape player / tape would respond to that level of repetition. If you're using your computer as source then that's something to consider, too.] Please be advised that if you use the Isotek disc for burn-in on your main system, your whole system should be positively affected. [NOTE: track three of the disc is approx only 5 minutes and used for a quick retuning of a treated system prior to a listening session.]
One potential fly in the ointment to keep-or-return decisions is that Zu reported on Facebook, in response to a question that asked, "Any word on a possible Omen sub? There's some forum chatter." that, "It will be introduced in the next couple of weeks. We finalized our final amplifier test and are moving into production. Anything that's self powered takes a bit longer because a company our size can't risk launching a product with less than optimal electronics. I hope all can understand the delay." Nice to hear Zu is going to be doing this. Decisions, decisions, decisions. :scratch:
Feel free to PM me with other questions. Mods, if this post needs to be moved off this part of the forum, in advance I apologize.
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If they can improve on the Method sub, it will be spectacular!
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Marry Christmas to everyone!!!
I've been a bit busy professionally, personally & ofcause with holiday preparation but here is a copy of on email regarding Omen modifications:
"Happy to help when I can. And before we get into the nitty gritty, let me say that all the parts in Omen are collectively a pretty balanced assembly. In addition to matching the tone-prints of the drivers, we also match those PulseX caps to 0.1%, same with the ERSE resistor, and there location on the back of the tweeter, while uncommon does result in better sound than sticking them on a plinth or worse on the side of the cabinet or bulkhead. Just laying the groundwork for conversation, you an find things to change, but you may or may not like the resulting sound. A few things I can tell you will make a nice difference.
Yes, apply a mechanical damping compound to the inside of the cabinet, focusing the material thickness on the nodes of the plates, which on Omen is the the center of each plate. No need to run the damping material right to the edges, I would recommend an inch or two away from the joints. Another is adding a 1" oak dowel between the tweeter/woofer bridge and the back. Glue it in place with PU glue like shoe goo, and make it a snug fit.
I wouldn't recommend playing with the acoustic damping of the cabinet, the fiberglass inside is fine, and more will only change the sound this way or that, it is tuned for all music, you can get a bit better for ambient by increasing the acoustic damping, but will hinder others.
I don't know that I would mess with cap upgrades to much, the tweeter's filter is very high, measures attached for your reference. However, the Mundorf Silver/Oil is better, 1.0uF is all you need. I would leave the resistor."
Best
Mariusz
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Thanks, Mariusz! Actually I figured for modding the Omens pretty much the same you got replied by Zu..
Nice to know about the cap value - I'll try that some day for sure! Overall I think Omens are very nicely balanced speakers indeed. I believe changing the caps would bring the sound more towards Soul Superfly's - perhaps a bit better overall resolution and perhaps a bit more air on top.. :thumb:
Merry Christmas to you and all Folks here at AC!!
jouni
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I found FM static to be an easy way to break in the Omens.
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It takes my wife and I to move the Omens around the house. Hand trucks might be in order for the Omen Defs.
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Thanks for sharing this. However, that bothered me since Zu could have done the upgrade prior to shipping the units. Maybe I am missing something here but that's just me.
Here is a good reading about Capacitors and how they sound in the reviewer's applications. http://www.enjoythemusic.com/diy/0708/capacitor1.htm
Marry Christmas to everyone!!!
I've been a bit busy professionally, personally & ofcause with holiday preparation but here is a copy of on email regarding Omen modifications:
"Happy to help when I can. And before we get into the nitty gritty, let me say that all the parts in Omen are collectively a pretty balanced assembly. In addition to matching the tone-prints of the drivers, we also match those PulseX caps to 0.1%, same with the ERSE resistor, and there location on the back of the tweeter, while uncommon does result in better sound than sticking them on a plinth or worse on the side of the cabinet or bulkhead. Just laying the groundwork for conversation, you an find things to change, but you may or may not like the resulting sound. A few things I can tell you will make a nice difference.
Yes, apply a mechanical damping compound to the inside of the cabinet, focusing the material thickness on the nodes of the plates, which on Omen is the the center of each plate. No need to run the damping material right to the edges, I would recommend an inch or two away from the joints. Another is adding a 1" oak dowel between the tweeter/woofer bridge and the back. Glue it in place with PU glue like shoe goo, and make it a snug fit.
I wouldn't recommend playing with the acoustic damping of the cabinet, the fiberglass inside is fine, and more will only change the sound this way or that, it is tuned for all music, you can get a bit better for ambient by increasing the acoustic damping, but will hinder others.
I don't know that I would mess with cap upgrades to much, the tweeter's filter is very high, measures attached for your reference. However, the Mundorf Silver/Oil is better, 1.0uF is all you need. I would leave the resistor."
Best
Mariusz
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Thanks for sharing this. However, that bothered me since Zu could have done the upgrade prior to shipping the units. Maybe I am missing something here but that's just me.
Then they would need to raise the price. Every product is built to a pricepoint, and any product can be improved.
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Then they would need to raise the price. Every product is built to a pricepoint, and any product can be improved.
How much do you think is the price difference for the upgrade above? :)
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How much do you think is the price difference for the upgrade above? :)
My guess would be $200. Considering labor, cost of parts, floor space for a workstation to add the parts (if not a separate workstation then simply because the product would be on the production floor longer), training people how to do it properly, etc. etc. I'm sure others more familiar with manufacturing in general and perhaps how Zu does their manufacturing could give a better answer. But suffice to say that anything added costs money.
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My guess would be $200. Considering labor, cost of parts, floor space for a workstation to add the parts (if not a separate workstation then simply because the product would be on the production floor longer), training people how to do it properly, etc. etc. I'm sure others more familiar with manufacturing in general and perhaps how Zu does their manufacturing could give a better answer. But suffice to say that anything added costs money.
Just the parts cost for two Mundorf Silver/Oil 1.0 caps before breakin and matching (labor cost) is well over $100 a pair retail unless you can get a screaming discount and I do not mean on the "chi-fi" faux units... :duh:
Oh by the way the PulseX 1.0 uf 250v cap costs approx $2 each retail... :thumb:
This Great Capacitor Shoot-out info might be interesting to those who DIY... :lol: the Mundorf Supreme may be a cheap & cheerful alternative to the bigger buck Mundorf's
http://www.laventure.net/tourist/caps.htm#A
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How much sound difference will you be able to get for those upgrades?
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How much sound difference will you be able to get for those upgrades?
How transparent is the rest of your system? Speakers are just the last link in the audio chain and not neccessarily the weakest... :dunno:
Lots of good info worth studying yourself in the link I believe you provided earlier... :beer:
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Case in point. Good luck with that. :)
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My Omen Defs in natural maple finish have arrived and now starting burn-in. Zu's nicely done packaging survived FedEx - just a couple pokes in one of the boxes. The Mrs. huffed a bit helping me bring each of the boxes to the basement, probably not a one person job, yet a job that two men can easily handle. Packaging inside the boxes was well executed: drivers covered tightly with sturdy plastic black "frisbees", top-to-bottom plastic wrap around each speaker, and each speaker supported on top, bottom, and twice in between by plastic foam. Speaker wood finish, in the basement light, seems / feels extremely well done - someone at Zu is doing a nice job / paying close attention. Also looks like Zu is using close router tolerances for the driver openings, too. :thumb: Nice speaker connector posts, too. I note the speakers ship with rounded feet fastened and spikes in a bag; they are serviceable but as neither are much to write home about, maybe I'll start looking for moderately priced after-market spikes if I decide to keep the speakers - suggestions welcome.
Glad I chose the natural finish, the Mrs. and I agree that finish will go great in our dedicated listening room once the Defs get burned-in (kudos for the high WAF, Zu!) And I feel the Omen Defs definitely sound like they need some serious run-in time.
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Good Luck with the Omen Defs. Mine definitely are requiring a ton of break-in though I live in an apartment and I only have tubes, so I have no possibility of cranking it up for a few weeks.
I did want to share a bit of information that I learned from Sean Casey at Zu yesterday as I had a ? about the Omen vs the Defs. He says the Defs have more dynamics, more resolution, and more detail than the Omens. He also prefers for the Omens and the Defs solid state amps such as Pass Labs XA30.5, First Watt J2, First Watt F3.....and for tubes he thinks the amp I have the Melody I2A3 is a great choice, though he thought the Yamamoto A08S would be even better (anybody got one? :D) For those of you with the Superfly's, he definitely recommends a tube amp. Just thought it nice to share my experience.....I should also add, that Sean is very easy to talk to, has never tried to steer me in any direction, and is not an over the top salesman as are some in the industry.
Thanks and Happy Holidays to you all :thumb:
Morgan
My Omen Defs in natural maple finish have arrived and now starting burn-in. Zu's nicely done packaging survived FedEx - just a couple pokes in one of the boxes. The Mrs. huffed a bit helping me bring each of the boxes to the basement, probably not a one person job, yet a job that two men can easily handle. Packaging inside the boxes was well executed: drivers covered tightly with sturdy plastic black "frisbees", top-to-bottom plastic wrap around each speaker, and each speaker supported on top, bottom, and twice in between by plastic foam. Speaker wood finish, in the basement light, seems / feels extremely well done - someone at Zu is doing a nice job / paying close attention. Also looks like Zu is using close router tolerances for the driver openings, too. :thumb: Nice speaker connector posts, too. I note the speakers ship with rounded feet fastened and spikes in a bag; they are serviceable but as neither are much to write home about, maybe I'll start looking for moderately priced after-market spikes if I decide to keep the speakers - suggestions welcome.
Glad I chose the natural finish, the Mrs. and I agree that finish will go great in our dedicated listening room once the Defs get burned-in (kudos for the high WAF, Zu!) And I feel the Omen Defs definitely sound like they need some serious run-in time.
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note the speakers ship with rounded feet fastened and spikes in a bag; they are serviceable but as neither are much to write home about, maybe I'll start looking for moderately priced after-market spikes if I decide to keep the speakers - suggestions welcome....
No affilliation... a good place to check out some options....I have purchased several different models and used them on a couple of projects before... :weights:
http://www.oregondv.com/spikes.htm
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Sean Casey at Zu ...says the Defs have more dynamics, more resolution, and more detail than the Omens. He also prefers for the Omens and the Defs solid state amps such as Pass Labs XA30.5, First Watt J2, First Watt F3.....
Morgan
And good luck to you as well. I have Odyssey Extreme Monos, so I hope post-burn in that there will be synergy between the amps and Omen Defs. Thanks for the info.
PS - wonder how bass reproduction would be with the Yamamoto?
No affilliation... a good place to check out some options....I have purchased several different models and used them on a couple of projects before... :weights:
http://www.oregondv.com/spikes.htm
Will check them out, many thanks.
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Bass.....I dont know but honestly the bass from these puppies is massive and clean with the Melody. I would think it would be fine at the low to moderate levels I listen to. But would love to hear anyone else's thoughts on the matter.
And good luck to you as well. I have Odyssey Extreme Monos, so I hope post-burn in that there will be synergy between the amps and Omen Defs. Thanks for the info.
PS - wonder how bass reproduction would be with the Yamamoto?
Will check them out, many thanks.
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So Mariusz ,whats the deal on the Omens. Do they sound any better?
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So Mariusz ,whats the deal on the Omens. Do they sound any better?
+1 How are they sounding??
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Been burning in for about 40 hours now and have noticed quite a noticeable change at low level listening. These speakers like to be goosed to sound good out of the box. But as they settle in, I find myself listening at lower and lower levels. I finally have a good placement on the speakers - I took me about 3 hours from carrying them upstairs to getting an optimum gap height and placement. I found that with toe in the soundstage really opened up and that gap height is very important to bass response.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=40414)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=40415)
Packing:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=40417)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=40418)
sam-fi
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Sweet!!!! :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
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Been burning in for about 40 hours now and have noticed quite a noticeable change at low level listening. These speakers like to be goosed to sound good out of the box. But as they settle in, I find myself listening at lower and lower levels. I finally have a good placement on the speakers - I took me about 3 hours from carrying them upstairs to getting an optimum gap height and placement. I found that with toe in the soundstage really opened up and that gap height is very important to bass response.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=40414)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=40415)
Packing:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=40417)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=40418)
sam-fi
Beautiful setup! Is that one of the Virtue amps they were offering with these? Are you still using the Bose cubes ;) LOL!
That packaging REALLY leaves a lot to be desired though :nono: I can see lots of freight claims due to the single wall construction of the boxes ...
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Heck I'm curious so I just ordered Bstock Omens :duh:
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I was seriously thinking B-stock Omen Bookshelves until I picked up some speakers yesterday off CL....what color Charles??
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Been burning in for about 40 hours now and have noticed quite a noticeable change at low level listening. These speakers like to be goosed to sound good out of the box. But as they settle in, I find myself listening at lower and lower levels. I finally have a good placement on the speakers - I took me about 3 hours from carrying them upstairs to getting an optimum gap height and placement. I found that with toe in the soundstage really opened up and that gap height is very important to bass response...
sam-fi
Nice photos, I went for the natural finish as well. [FYI - I like the built-ins.] Zu recommendations regarding speaker bottom clearance, toe-in, etc. seem to be supported by your comments.
That packaging REALLY leaves a lot to be desired though :nono: I can see lots of freight claims due to the single wall construction of the boxes ...
My experience makes me politely disagree. I reported that my shipment experienced two surface (modest) punctures in one box. If you take Zu's top box piece and bottom box piece as it's shipped together, it's akin to having a double wall box all around except on the front and rear panels; the external labels clearly indicate which way the box is to be laid so as to maximize the protection offered by this design (I know some shipping employees disregard labels, as do consumers.). The construction and placement of two of the four foam cushions protects the speaker top and bottom; the differing construction and placement of the remaining two foam cushions keeps the speakers from harm except for very deep punctures. I previously discussed the protective nature of the "black frisbee" driver covers. YMMV.
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I was seriously thinking B-stock Omen Bookshelves until I picked up some speakers yesterday off CL....what color Charles??
They don't give a choice on the web so I called and the guy said when you get the confirmation email to email back with a color preference so I emailed back for the Sangria. Just did it on a whim. Don't need new speakers. Taking advantage of the 60 day audition. But last time I did this I kept them. My wife is going to kill me :lol:
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Charles best of luck with the wife...Happy Holidays!! Enjoy your new speakers and of course please let us know how they sound. :thumb:
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They don't give a choice on the web so I called and the guy said when you get the confirmation email to email back with a color preference so I emailed back for the Sangria. Just did it on a whim. Don't need new speakers. Taking advantage of the 60 day audition. But last time I did this I kept them. My wife is going to kill me :lol:
Can I be the fly on the wall for the dressing down that you are going to get :argue: :whip:
:rotflmao:
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My experience makes me politely disagree. I reported that my shipment experienced two surface (modest) punctures in one box. If you take Zu's top box piece and bottom box piece as it's shipped together, it's akin to having a double wall box all around except on the front and rear panels; the external labels clearly indicate which way the box is to be laid so as to maximize the protection offered by this design (I know some shipping employees disregard labels, as do consumers.). The construction and placement of two of the four foam cushions protects the speaker top and bottom; the differing construction and placement of the remaining two foam cushions keeps the speakers from harm except for very deep punctures. I previously discussed the protective nature of the "black frisbee" driver covers. YMMV.
Couldn't tell completely how the box goes together so that works if its double boxed. It was the single boxing that really had me concerned. I know they had their issues, but one thing AV123 had was ridiculously good packaging (for most of the speakers). Even my inexpensive X-LS' came double boxed with nice foam and the nice protective sock that each speaker came wrapped in.
Good to know the packaging is plenty :thumb:
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Can I be the fly on the wall for the dressing down that you are going to get :argue: :whip:
:rotflmao:
I may need a place to sleep. I'll call you when they come in.
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I may need a place to sleep. I'll call you when they come in.
Sounds good.
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I am just going to throw out some responses here.
The amp I am using is the Peachtree Nova - I have had one for over a year now. They also offered this amp as a package with the defs but I am a previous owner. My thoughts? Great dac for the price and a decent headphone amp and amp.
The packaging seemed quite adequate to me, hardly a scratch was on the box as well.
I am also getting a TT for myself this Christmas - it is sitting under the tree. Oooh the excitement!
Sam-fi
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One of My boxes also had 2 punctures in it through the single wall side. I think zu definitely needs to add some bubble wrap around the speakers themselves.
I too noticed when I first received them I had to turn the volume control much higher 1:00 versus 10:00 from my previous 93 db speakers. About a week into the break in period the efficiency increased dramatically. I now get plenty of volume at about 9:00. I am using a 2 watt 46 based amp with an audio note pre.
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So I take it everyone is pleased with their Zu speakers? I've narrowed it down to Zu, PSB, Monitor Audio or a set of Maggies (I have the space & power) in my price range. Any comments and/or suggestions?
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I sold my Monitor Audio Gs 10's and 60's a few months ago. The omen defs are much better for me in my space with my listening preferences. Good luck with your decision.
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That packaging REALLY leaves a lot to be desired though :nono: I can see lots of freight claims due to the single wall construction of the boxes ...
Yep, and FedEx claims seems to take a lot of time.. :cry: Here's my case due to poor packaging:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=40459)
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Yep, and FedEx claims seems to take a lot of time.. :cry: Here's my case due to poor packaging:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=40459)
I had similar damage to the top of mine:(.
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Here's also a couple of shots of my other speakers packaging..these should survive :thumb:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=40460)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=40461)
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Any comments and/or suggestions?
Perhaps allow Zu owners time sufficient to burn-in their respective speakers and subsequently report what they're hearing. That may take a bit of time.
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Here's a shot of my Omen setup. It rests on Timbernation 2" 15x15" maple platform, brass spikes add another 2". The gap between the platform and the speaker is 9 mm at the moment, which is pretty nice, imo. Soundstage height and overall balance improves, imo. And I may repeat myself, but the balance is surprisingly good :D.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=40525)
jouni
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Charles, I think you deserve the best Zu has to offer because you have a great room to start. I truly like the sound of the Zu/Esoteric/Pass lab that Ron brought to Deepak's house. ;)
They cost more but they truly great full-range sounding and will look good in your beautiful room. :thumb:
Nevertheless, good luck.
I may need a place to sleep. I'll call you when they come in.
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HI Levi....would love to hear more about the Pass Labs with the ZU combo.....which speakers was it and which model of amp?
Charles, I think you deserve the best Zu has to offer because you have a great room to start. I truly like the sound of the Zu/Esoteric/Pass lab that Ron brought to Deepak's house. ;)
They cost more but they truly great full-range sounding and will look good in your beautiful room. :thumb:
Nevertheless, good luck.
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Ah sure. I think we have that documented.
We listened to two pairs of Zu Essence speakers in two different rooms. 2A3s monoblocks, Pass Labs XA 30.5, Modwright 9.0SE linestage, Peachtree Audio Nova, a variety of pre-amps, maybe a RM-10, Esoteric CD player.
Here is the link to the Zu House Party and impressions.
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=72591.120
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Haven't done any critical listening with my main gear since the Omen Defs are undergoing burn-in in the basement, just the odd track or two to get a little sense of what the speakers can offer. I have experienced the following so far: the speakers respond well to toe-in and being angled upward (aftermarket spikes could help nicely), the speakers definitely seem to profit from being burned in, the sound is still unsettled but promising with some decent imaging, and the bass at this point does not go all that low - again, the speakers are not all that carefully aligned in a section of the basement. So far I want to hear more, which I take to be a good thing.
The burn-in period has allowed me to do some reading and I came across and I came across a Stereophile article by Art Dudley about Zu's DL-103 makeover. Within the conclusion section of the story (http://www.stereophile.com/content/zu-audio-dl-103-mc-phono-cartridge-page-2) the author recounts how the Zu icon when turned 1/4 clockwise resembles a rabbit. Well, my wife has this thing for rabbits (you should see the number of them in one form or another around home, and once I told her about the icon, it may have complicated having the speakers leave the house, which is not a bad thing unless they not pass the listening test phase in a couple weeks. :scratch:
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Sam-fi, are the Omen Defs replacing those Bose cubes in your HT setup? If so, that is one heckuva upgrade. :D
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Cheap or cheerful? I say both.
$1000 for a quality, hand-made in USA speaker with 95% made in USA parts is pretty cheap. And I've been playing my Omens for a few hours and they are making me cheerful. I suspect they'll change slightly over the next days / weeks, but I doubt they'll sound like different speakers so what I have is pretty close to the final product.
I have a pair of older Tekton Design Katz Meows (I posted previously with a pic) and they are both in the same league, not a night and day difference. Both excellent speakers. I would guess that the new Tekton Lore might be a closer match to the Omen, both having 10 inchers.
More to come from me, but so far I really like what I hearing.
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I would love to hear more of your impressions now that the Omens are increasing in number and hopefully soon all broken in. It would be nice also to compare experiences with different amps. I have heard the Omen Defs with my Melody 2A3 and last week I had a friend bring over his RWA integrated and I was pleasantly surprised.
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Thanks Levi.....I have browsed throught that thread a few times, and I couldn't really find much of the impressions with each amp....but I will dig through it again. I am considering going with a Modwright 9.0SWE pre with a solid state Modwright or Pass Lab amp of anyone has ever heard this combo or has any thoughts on the matter.
Ah sure. I think we have that documented.
We listened to two pairs of Zu Essence speakers in two different rooms. 2A3s monoblocks, Pass Labs XA 30.5, Modwright 9.0SE linestage, Peachtree Audio Nova, a variety of pre-amps, maybe a RM-10, Esoteric CD player.
Here is the link to the Zu House Party and impressions.
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=72591.120
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I doubt you'll find aftermarket spikes tall enough to get the elevation and tilt needed for the Omens. I found 3 inch lag bolts for the front and two inch ones for the rear to work the best of any combination I tried. The highly polished finish on these Home Depot bolts look much better than Zu's dull stock feet.
That one inch tilt allows the drivers to be aimed directly at my ears when seated in their toed-in sweet spot.
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Thanks Levi.....I have browsed throught that thread a few times, and I couldn't really find much of the impressions with each amp....but I will dig through it again. I am considering going with a Modwright 9.0SWE pre with a solid state Modwright or Pass Lab amp of anyone has ever heard this combo or has any thoughts on the matter.
That is a great combo with the other Zu speakers, I don't know why the Omens would be any different. I have run a 9.0SE Sig with either a First Watt F3 or F5 (DIY) on my Druids (previously) and Essence (now) for the last 3-4 years, and I'm not searching for another overall combo from the tube pre/Class A amp. I actually just ordered one of the CES demos from modwright, LS100 w/ phono stage. So I am making some minor updates to the system, but I will be sticking with that overall preamp/amp concept.
Regards,
Dan
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Srajan Ebaen likened the Dayens Ampino to a First Watt F5. I had one and it was very nice, but the 300b that replaced it is in an entirely different league in every way imaginable. And even though it has less power than the Ampino, it plays louder with more authority.
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In my opinion, the Modwright 9.0SE Sig, Pass Lab Amp and Esoteric Universal CDP should be kept in as the main system with a matching speaker. I wouldn't match it with cheap speakers. For the Cheap and Cheerful or "bedroom setup", choose a cheaper preamp/amp/cd or dac combo. That's just me.
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I haven't heard the Omens or Omen Defs, but as a Soul Superfly owner who has used the F1, F1J and Aleph monos with his Zus, I respectfully disagree with your statement.
The Zus are perfectly capable of leveraging what those amplifiers have to offer--they aren't absurdly priced, but at a $1500 retail, the omens aren't what I'd consider 'cheap' speakers and Pass gear is perfectly at home with them.
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Yeah Gopher, I agree. I'm am using a Naim Supernait amp ($5000) with my Soul Superflys. This amp replaced the Modwright SWP 9.0se and a BAT vk-55 amp in my system. The Zu's are very capable speakers and deserve good amplification.
Nat
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Having compared many amps with the Zu's that I have owned, it is quite remarkable the differences between each one even to my untrained and self acknowledged less than remarkable ears.....so thanks for all of the input.....
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morganc - We have the same ears.
I've been breaking the standard Omens in with a vintage Yamaha R-2000 receiver, 150 wpc. I'm not a vintage SS guy, but I believe the R-2000 is pretty highly regarded in those circles (beautiful piece, btw).
Sounds no where near as good to me as with any of my SE tube stuff. I have no PP tube gear at the moment.
I just got the big bolts as suggested by Poultrygeist, haven't installed them yet. I have about 50 hours on the Omens. I'll do my due diligence and run them in for another week or so (although I believe they're pretty much done) before I form any opinions. A Tekton Katz Meow / Zu Omen comparison should be fun.
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morganc - We have the same ears.
I've been breaking the standard Omens in with a vintage Yamaha R-2000 receiver, 150 wpc. I'm not a vintage SS guy, but I believe the R-2000 is pretty highly regarded in those circles (beautiful piece, btw).
Sounds no where near as good to me as with any of my SE tube stuff. I have no PP tube gear at the moment.
I just got the big bolts as suggested by Poultrygeist, haven't installed them yet. I have about 50 hours on the Omens. I'll do my due diligence and run them in for another week or so (although I believe they're pretty much done) before I form any opinions. A Tekton Katz Meow / Zu Omen comparison should be fun.
I found and installed the same bolts and I do think it was quite a useful tweak, though I need to uninstall them now that they are broken in for comparison sake....btw I did find them in black and they do not look too bad in black at all.
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I doubt you'll find aftermarket spikes tall enough to get the elevation and tilt needed for the Omens. I found 3 inch lag bolts for the front and two inch ones for the rear to work the best of any combination I tried. The highly polished finish on these Home Depot bolts look much better than Zu's dull stock feet.
That one inch tilt allows the drivers to be aimed directly at my ears when seated in their toed-in sweet spot.
I think my Omen Defs reached the point of being pretty much burned in this past weekend (thanks again, Isotek disc) and brought them into my main system Saturday. I first used the standard bolts that came with the speakers and placed that pairing atop 1.25" granite slabs, but subsequently changed over to the Zu spikes. I like the presentation better with the spike/granite combo, and if I keep the speakers, I'll upgrade the spikes. I have a slight pitch upward on the speakers.
My first generic impressions are that the Omen Defs when dialed in (take your time dialing these in. I found that tweaks to the speaker pitch front-to-rear, and in position including distance from rear / side walls and toe-in, had definite effects on what I was hearing.) have a nicely detailed presentation with a fair soundstage depth and width. The detail is such that it will let you know if your source material is well or poorly recorded. My listening so far includes rock (Pink Floyd, AC/DC, White Stripes, Peter Gabriel [more on what I found listening to Peter Gabriel in a bit], etc.), blues (Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, B.B. King, etc.), bluegrass (a bunch of Allison Krause/ AK & Union Station) and electronica (Chemical Brothers [same issue as Gabriel material], Thomas Dolby). Most were presented ably and the spouse and I found we heard detail not previously revealed, a nice plus.
I have some questions regarding the speakers' performance handling lots of information at once, so I'll need some additional listening time to work that out. I also need to hear them with classical, which I hope to be interesting.
However, a potential downside for me is that one should not expect the Defs to get low in the bass, as a number of Peter Gabriel songs easily and acutely revealed; I was missing information I previously had with my other speakers. Listening to some Chemical Brothers again made this apparent. The lack of low bass (Zu advertised the Defs get down to 30 Hz, so I thought I knew what I was testing) caused me to pause. Figure the heir-apparent to the Zu Method sub to come in at $1,900. With the Def sale price of $1,800 + $1,900 = $3,700, we're way past cheep and cheerful. Take the non-sale price of Zus and the Def/sub combo comes in at $4,700, and there are a number of speakers in that price range that may not need as much sub augmentation as I feel the Defs need. Yes, there's bass, just not the low end bass. Again, Zu does not advertise the Defs get that low.
That's it for now, I'll keep burning in the speakers 24/7 when not in a listening session. Oh, equipment for testing included Odyssey Extreme Mono amps (Chris VenHaus cryoed Flavor 4 PCs), Groneberg speaker cables, Odyssey Tempest preamp (Chris VenHaus cryoed Flavor 2 PC), Jolida JD-100 cdp (JHS Gold Label Sylvania 5751WA triple mica black plates, Chris VenHaus cryoed Flavor 1 PC, Herbie's Hal-O 9 tube dampers), Grover Huffman ICs. Haven't touched the vinyl yet.
edit - corrected typo
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I think my Omen Defs reached the point of being pretty much burned in this past weekend (thanks again, Isotek disc) and brought them into my main system Saturday. I first used the standard bolts that came with the speakers and placed that pairing atop 1.25" granite slabs, but subsequently changed over to the Zu spikes.
I have some questions regarding the speakers' performance handling lots of information at once, so I'll need some additional listening time to work that out.
However, a potential downside for me is that one should not expect the Defs to get low in the bass,
Hello djbnh - I am haering the same as you when the music gets busy. I don't like it, but I'm not nearly set up properly yet so I'm not too worried.
Bass - I have had a problem in my room with many speakers with too much bass muddying up the midrange. That's why I think the 8" Tektons worked so well for me. My Omens have too much bass. Sounds good, but it's too much and it's muddying up the midrange (I believe). I had the Zu spikes on carpet set to where the speaker bottom was low to the carpet (spikes screwed in almost all the way). I just now 5 minutes ago unscrewed the spikes to the other extreme where there is a bigger gap between the bottom of the speaker and the carpet. Not enough bass, so I'll try to find the sweet spot.
My Point - You may want to play with the spacing if you haven't already.
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It's certainly worth experimenting with the length of the Omen feet to get the right clearance from the floor to improve the bass.
When I used the stock feet and spikes I found the bass too boomy. Now that they are raised 2 inches in the front and 1 inch in the rear it's much better. I may try even longer 3/8 inch lag bolts to see how the Omens respond to even greater distances off the floor.
90% of my music is small group jazz and the Omens cover the double bass range well.
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It's certainly worth experimenting with the length of the Omen feet to get the right clearance from the floor to improve the bass.
When I used the stock feet and spikes I found the bass too boomy. Now that they are raised 2 inches in the front and 1 inch in the rear it's much better. I may try even longer 3/8 inch lag bolts to see how the Omens respond to even greater distances off the floor.
90% of my music is small group jazz and the Omens cover the double bass range well.
Since I last posted I played a little with the gap (bottom of speaker to floor). Aside from drastic room position changes, this altered the sound of the Omens more than anything else, including going from a 4 watt 2A3 SET to a vintage 150 watt Yamaha receiver. 1/4" to 1/2" changes. I'm sure a lot of that has to do with my room, it is small and cube-ish, and bass has always been an issue in here. I'll say that some of the posters who reported improvements when tilting the speakers were actually hearing the effect of changing the gap, not changing the tilt (but I'm only guessing).
Just my 2 cents.
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I too noticed dramatic changes with very small changes in room placement and you may very well be correct that the big difference was the elevation off of the ground. Also my bass did go from boomy to much more clear definition and a more rapid decay with the elevation and with small changes in placement. I found the best placement for me to be around 3 feet or so off of the back wall. I followed ZU's placement guidelines and found them to be very helpful.
Since I last posted I played a little with the gap (bottom of speaker to floor). Aside from drastic room position changes, this altered the sound of the Omens more than anything else, including going from a 4 watt 2A3 SET to a vintage 150 watt Yamaha receiver. 1/4" to 1/2" changes. I'm sure a lot of that has to do with my room, it is small and cube-ish, and bass has always been an issue in here. I'll say that some of the posters who reported improvements when tilting the speakers were actually hearing the effect of changing the gap, not changing the tilt (but I'm only guessing).
Just my 2 cents.
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For those with carpet, try putting a ceramic or stone tile underneath. This will have a nice effect on the bass.
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Since I last posted I played a little with the gap (bottom of speaker to floor). Aside from drastic room position changes, this altered the sound of the Omens more than anything else, including going from a 4 watt 2A3 SET to a vintage 150 watt Yamaha receiver. 1/4" to 1/2" changes. I'm sure a lot of that has to do with my room, it is small and cube-ish, and bass has always been an issue in here. I'll say that some of the posters who reported improvements when tilting the speakers were actually hearing the effect of changing the gap, not changing the tilt (but I'm only guessing).
Just my 2 cents.
I incrementally changed the gap, tilt, placement from rear walls, and placement from side walls incrementally, and think I have the Defs pretty much dialed in. My mono amps have had no issue with providing plenty of clean power, so that's not an issue.
FYI - I note the new Zu brochure lists the Omen Defs at $3,100, up from the Dec. price of $2,800. :scratch: Guess that Nov. Black Friday sale might have been the lowest price point on these going forward.
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After more burn-in the Defs are sounding even better, much less congested for sure which tells me they still have a bit more burn-in to go. I also got the idea last night from my "fun-sized" spouse to lower the speakers by taking them off the granite slabs (she was using a large pillow to try to have her ears at about the same height as mine, and mentioned that perhaps I should try to use less thickness under the speakers.). I hit Home Depot on the way to work in the AM and picked up a couple 18" square stone tiles (about 1/4" height), installed when I got home, and kept the rest of the measurements the same. I've got even more focused images within a deeper and wider soundstage, and the bass seems a bit better (note: no Gabriel tonight, will try that tomorrow and see how much of that missing bass might have worked into the equation). The Defs play very nicely with an assortment of classical pieces, which is a treat. :thumb:
When I used the stock feet and spikes I found the bass too boomy. Now that they are raised 2 inches in the front and 1 inch in the rear it's much better. I may try even longer 3/8 inch lag bolts to see how the Omens respond to even greater distances off the floor.
I'm not sure how the above would work with the Defs, as they're a taller speaker than the Omens. If anyone with Defs tries this, I'd like to know how it turned out.
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Have you watched the video on the front page of the Zu site? The making of the Omen Def. Cool....love it!! I'm gonna have to watch it again I think!
Shows how serious they are about building nice speakers. It wasn't there just the other day.
EV3
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(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_FbSDy9bT53I/TSdMsBfWaVI/AAAAAAAABPk/SCU1XSXCTFg/s400/zudom.jpg)
Anyone have any idea what the intro pricing of the Dominance will be? :lol:
Pure secks
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Have you watched the video on the front page of the Zu site? The making of the Omen Def. Cool....love it!! I'm gonna have to watch it again I think!
Shows how serious they are about building nice speakers. It wasn't there just the other day.
EV3
Nice find, thank you.
It's been three days after I removed the granite slabs from under the Omen Defs and it's been uphill since then, in some ways remarkable to me looking back at my earlier comments. Since I got the Defs I've been mostly burning them in 24/7, with assorted listening intervals of assorted music. Some of the changes for the better in the last three days include the end of the congestion, the appearance and settling in of very decent usable bass (I still think some might want to use a sub, but I am now vacillating regarding the cost/benefit of purchasing and using one). Detail and body on recordings is even more realistic & palpable, and compellingly draws you in to the music / gets the toes to tapping. Instrument and vocal placement has firmed up more. There's noticeable increases in the soundstage area including the areas to the outside and rear of the speaker planes.
So yes - I've gone from questioner to believer. The Zu Omen Defs and Zu's Black Friday sale price of $1,800 is proving to be a sound investment for the spouse and I (counting that now I'd possibly like to change over my pre including to one with a remote; however, with the $ I saved that's more than possible). The fit and finish of Zu's product are more pluses (I've the natural maple and it works quite nicely in the music room).
Nits are really none at the $1,800 delivered-to-NH price. Sure, it'd be nice to have better spikes (need to order some), but that would have hiked the price. Getting more of the last octave of bass surely would have ticked the price up, too. And having Zu do the burn-in of the Omen Defs would have added even more $ (and I firmly believe they do need gobs of burn-in). I found speaker placement, height including angle front-to-rear, and toe-in critically important in setting the Omen Defs in my audio room, so you might want to grab a friend's ears to help with placement.
YMMV. Happy listening. Thanks to Zu, and to those forum members whose postings got me initially interested. :beer:
Edit: it's been a few weeks now. Probably no need for a sub. 8)
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The weight of those heavy Zu motors in the front of the cabinet will offset the one inch back tilt even on taller feet. I'd have to make an concerted effort to topple my Omens.
I tried them on 12X12 vinyl wrapped concrete pavers but a better solution for my hardwood floors were ribbed industrial carpet mats from HD. I cut them into 4 12X12 squares, glued the rubber sides together and ran the ribbed carpeted sides parallel with the speaker fronts. They sound better, look good and the monsters can be moved ( slid ) without getting a hernia.
I like mine positioned 3 1/2 ft out from the room corners and toed in.
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[quote author=djbnh link=topic=86177.msg887119#msg887119 date=129428636
I raised my Omen Defs up by installing if I can remember correctly 2 3/4" in the front and 1.5" black bolts in the rear and I noticed a very nice improvement in bass. I then glued felt on the bottom of each bolt and I can now easily re-position each speaker. I agree you need a partner to facilitate the positioning as each small change produces a very easily identifiable improvement. The bolts are perfectly stable, easily movable, and a relatively inexpensive tweak.
I am glad to hear that you, dgbnh are feeling better about your purchase. I agree the breakin period is quite long, the potential tweaks are extensive, and the improvements great. What new integrated with remote are you looking at? I have the Melody I2A3 and am looking to upgrade soon to the new one with remote or switch to separates so that I can get a pre with remote.
Cheers,
Morgan
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(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_FbSDy9bT53I/TSdMsBfWaVI/AAAAAAAABPk/SCU1XSXCTFg/s400/zudom.jpg)
Anyone have any idea what the intro pricing of the Dominance will be? :lol:
Pure secks
The price is $40,000!!! Please
Invite me over when you get a pair:)
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Check out the new video that Zu posted on their website. It highlights the manufacturing process of the Omen Def's. Very neat, and interesting music.
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I used shiny silver lag bolt feet which match all the bright silver trim work on my black Omens. With the lag bolts the threads are only about an inch long so they aren't visible and really look like custom feet.
Before switching to the bolt feet I tried the factory spikes but the weight of these puppies came close to punching holes through the oriental rugs they were resting on at the time.
For those who haven't seen the ghost black Omens in person they have these gorgeous smoke gray swirls that run throughout the grain. Don't think I've seen a sexier speaker.
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(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_FbSDy9bT53I/TSdMsBfWaVI/AAAAAAAABPk/SCU1XSXCTFg/s400/zudom.jpg)
Anyone have any idea what the intro pricing of the Dominance will be? :lol:
Check the information about these in audioreview's notes about the 2011 CES (http://reviews.audioreview.com/blog/ces-2011-audio-note-zu-audio-studio-electric-usher-yg-acoustics/), scroll halfway down the page to see / read.
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An update on my Omens:
It is still frustrating as I now have what must be "close to and perhaps over" the 400 hr mark. The speakers are now placed on stands to get the tweeter at ear level for my particular listening postion. Just as I think they are "settled in" and stable, they change again... :duh:
But to a more positive presentation... so I am continuing to see a moving target but thankfully moving to the more cohesive side and the bass is beginning to become better integrated. Can't draw any conclusions yet as there may be even more to come.
I am beginning to think that the 400 hour mark may be a little optimistic for the selection & grade of parts in these in my system. As always YMMV...I am rolling up fast on my 60 day trial date. I am glad it is moving in the right direction but man it is taking a lot of time :roll:
Mariusz, would you care to status us on your pair breaking in...Thanks and
Best Regards
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You aren't alone there. I've heard of other Zu owners reporting hearing break in continuing throughout the first YEAR of ownership. I don't recall how long my Soul Superflys took, but after the first couple months some variables started changing in the system and everything was continually improving...
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You aren't alone there. I've heard of other Zu owners reporting hearing break in continuing throughout the first YEAR of ownership. I don't recall how long my Soul Superflys took, but after the first couple months some variables started changing in the system and everything was continually improving...
I wonder if this is unique to Zu spec drivers / capacitors / wiring / hardware or do other Eminence based "fullrange drivers" have this similar curve... :roll:
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I have heard an improvement in some of the congestion lifting around the 300 hour mark. I should be hitting the fabled 400 mark by this Friday. Great timing if you ask me?
Time to invite some friends over. :thumb:
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I wonder if this is unique to Zu spec drivers / capacitors / wiring / hardware or do other Eminence based "fullrange drivers" have this similar curve... :roll:
I'm not sure, but I noticed this too with other full range drivers I've owned including the Fostex drivers (both the near field and regular) for my Cain & Cain Abbys.
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What are you using beneath the bolts? Do you have a photo? What differences did you notice at different levels of elevation and tilting?
Thanks,
Morgan
I used shiny silver lag bolt feet which match all the bright silver trim work on my black Omens. With the lag bolts the threads are only about an inch long so they aren't visible and really look like custom feet.
Before switching to the bolt feet I tried the factory spikes but the weight of these puppies came close to punching holes through the oriental rugs they were resting on at the time.
For those who haven't seen the ghost black Omens in person they have these gorgeous smoke gray swirls that run throughout the grain. Don't think I've seen a sexier speaker.
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I purchased two black industrial type carpet/floor mats from Home Depot. Cut them into 4 12x12 inch squares and glued the grippy rubber sides together with the carpeted ribbed sides facing outward and contacting the Omen feet and floor. I ran the ribbed sides parallel with the speaker fronts which makes for a nice visual effect but they sound better than the concrete pavers I tried as a base.
These double thickness ribbed carpet pads act like dampening material and tightened the bass significantly. Sliding the Omens on hardwood floors can be done with one finger.
With a 2 inch lift in front and the 1 inch lift in back combined with the thick ribbed carpet mats the sound is good enough to stop my desire for further tweaking.
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On each Omen Def's negative speaker terminal I put one of Rich Shultz' hook-style EVS Ground Enhancers (AC thread here (http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=87653.0); my comments here (http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=87653.msg889594#msg889594)). Very nice positive changes, just when I thought it couldn't get better. [NOTE: subsequently applied a second set to each of the negative terminals of my mono amps and didn't care for that presentation so off they came from the monos.] Price = $55 shipped for 4, a steal for what they did in my system with my gear.
FYI - my SCs have banana plugs that didn't present any issues with installing the EVS Ground enhancers (the EVS Ground Enhancer was simply hooked over the neg post and tightened to the post with the post's knurled knob). If you use spades, the thread posters advise to have the EVS placed closest to the speaker back, then place the spade, then tighten down. I'm read that the RCA versions have nice effects on HT video and audio. YMMV.
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With a 2 inch lift in front and the 1 inch lift in back combined with the thick ribbed carpet mats the sound is good enough to stop my desire for further tweaking.
I have my Omens on spikes with a 2" in front and 1" in back sitting on a board on top of my carpet. I THINK I may be getting close. I was out of town last week so I've still got less than 100 hours on them, but they are sounding very good. I'd be happy to stop right now if I thought I couldn't do any better, but I'm pretty sure I can do better with a tweak here and there.
The biggest improvement I've had so for was getting the Zu Mission speaker cables, but I was using DIY cables before (if you cut off the ends of extension cords that is still considered DIY!! :D)
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I'm enjoying the Omens with my Woods Patio Cords from Walmart. It seemed like I had to run that weedwhacker forever before those cords were properly burnt-in.
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I'm enjoying the Omens with my Woods Patio Cords from Walmart. It seemed like I had to run that weedwhacker forever before those cords were properly burnt-in.
LOL! I used to use the White Lightening Moonshines myself.
I used the extension cord on a TV for a couple days before turning them into speaker cables. Was planning to use the fridge, but it was too much of a pita.
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I'm enjoying the Omens with my Woods Patio Cords from Walmart. It seemed like I had to run that weedwhacker forever before those cords were properly burnt-in.
I am also using the Woods Patio Cords (Thanks to Jeff Day et all...) with my Omens which are still breaking in....
In my large space I have NOT seen much change, positive or negative by changing height. Maybe that will change after the speakers settle down as they continue to be morphing even after the 400hr mark now. I have decided I will not be sending them back to Zu and will probably add a furniture leg to raise the height and finish the Omen "look"....
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=41629)
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Nice gams!
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Hi all, new to the forum. Following this thread inspired me to invest in a pair of Omens from Music Direct. It was a toss up for me between a pair of Druid mkiv 08s or the Omens. From the tone of the comments the Omens sound like thry might have the edge. How are the regular Omens sounding now that you guys have had the chance to run them for a couple of months?
Best,
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LOL! I used to use the White Lightening Moonshines myself.
I used the extension cord on a TV for a couple days before turning them into speaker cables. Was planning to use the fridge, but it was too much of a pita.
You guys are killin' me. I thought I was the only one. I hesitated to even mention my DIY extension cords and now it seems that everyone's using them.
(I wonder what the resale value is on these...)
I will do a more detailed compare with the Moonshines vs. the Zu Missions soon, but it seemed that the Missions made a huge difference.
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Hi all, new to the forum. Following this thread inspired me to invest in a pair of Omens from Music Direct. It was a toss up for me between a pair of Druid mkiv 08s or the Omens. From the tone of the comments the Omens sound like thry might have the edge. How are the regular Omens sounding now that you guys have had the chance to run them for a couple of months?
Best,
Hey Bugs - I've only had my Standard Omens for a few weeks, but they are sounding very good. I have a couple of other pairs of good speakers in my home and I have no intention of sending them back.
It took me a while to find the right position in the room, as well as the right height to space them over the floor (they port from the bottom). I'm still fine tuning.
A lot of what I've read about the Druids has been mixed, seems that a smaller subset of people like them, and many do not. I've read almost nothing negative about the Omens, although it's very early in the product life cycle. I don't think it's a stretch to say that a new pair of Omens with a 60-day is a safer bet than a used pair of Druids that may become harder and harder to sell if you don't like them.
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Hi all,
I have been following this thread for a while and think I am pretty close to ordering a pair of Omens. I have a few questions; Are the Omens officially back to $1500 at Zu or are they matching the $999 that Music Direct is offering? Has anyone that ordered from Music Direct received theirs? Have they changed what finishes they are offered in? Thanks in advance.
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Hi all,
I have been following this thread for a while and think I am pretty close to ordering a pair of Omens. I have a few questions; Are the Omens officially back to $1500 at Zu or are they matching the $999 that Music Direct is offering? Has anyone that ordered from Music Direct received theirs? Have they changed what finishes they are offered in? Thanks in advance.
The list on Zu's website shows $1,500, but if you really wanted to buy direct I would call and ask them to give you the MD price and terms.
I received mine from MD at the end of December.
Not sure about the finishes.
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I am an Omen owner. I bought floor models from Music Direct just before the new year Dec 28th I believe..... anyway........
I have around 450 hours on them and really like them. My previous speakers were Maggies...1.2 QR. Not quite as detailed as the maggies but much more dynamic with soundstage width and depth as good if not better. Just what I was looking for. Bass and Kick Drum are WONDERFULL!
I am using a McCormack DNA-1 amp and a McCormack RLD-1 Pre. My Digital front end is an Audio Research Corp. CD-3.
I have carpeting and concrete floors and used them with the spikesand 1" gap for 3 weeks. I changed this week to a 12"x12" by 5/8 thick MDF shelf material piece under them with 11/16" equal gap between the bottom of the speaker and the 12x12 mdf.The MDF is on the carpet with no spikes as of yet.
For me the bass was a bit muddy and overbearing with the spikes and carpet with a 1" gap on the bottom. The MDF under the speakers have cleared the bass up big time. I much prefer this to the carpet under the speakers.
Bass is tight , full, and very "tunefull"
YMMV of course. Just my input.
Would love to hear others experiments as no / few reviews. Sure is more fun that way BTW......
One more thing..... Breakin is for real and slow. This is my first loudspeaker with a big full range driver so I was really shocked how much these change over the first 300 hours or so.
Ken
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Been thinking about getting either the tekton lores or zu omens and i found this thread. I have a few questions... you guys that have them what do you think of the omens now? Did you ever get around to trying the lores as well?
I am looking for good detail and really good soundstage/imaging? How are these with that?
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I just ordered a pair of Omens yesterday direct from Zu. They are still honoring the promo price of $999 + free shipping in the CONUS. With the 60 day trial with free return shipping, I figure there is nothing really to lose.
From the look of the reviews I will be in for a treat once they break in.
Sean
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Where's the shootout ? Not much love for the Tektons.
I don't think Eric over at Tekton ever got back to Mariusz regarding a shootout. Too bad, I would have been very interested in seeing one too.
Cornelis
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Where's the shootout ? Not much love for the Tektons.
I don't think Eric over at Tekton ever got back to Mariusz regarding a shootout. Too bad, I would have been very interested in seeing one too.
Cornelis
Well....if Mariusz is "tweaking" his Zu speakers....that would not be a "fair shootout"... :?
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I just ordered a pair of Omens yesterday direct from Zu. They are still honoring the promo price of $999 + free shipping in the CONUS. With the 60 day trial with free return shipping, I figure there is nothing really to lose.
From the look of the reviews I will be in for a treat once they break in.
Sean
I was talking to Zu yesterday and they are still honoring the $999.99 prince with shippping. The cost does hit your credit card immediaely with a four week ship date. Anybody remember what the sale price was on the Superflys.
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I am starting to think that as these tweeks add up and the def is now $3100 and my upgraded amp is far from cheep (though SO chearful!) we should find a new area to talk about our new zu speakers. Is there a new thread for this?
Thanks,
Sam
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So all you guys out there on the front lines of the Zu Omen revolution; are they keepers or are they a slight disraction on the bumpy road of life. I haven't heard them, but I have a pair on order and I sure hope that they are better than my 30 year old Boston A400s.
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So all you guys out there on the front lines of the Zu Omen revolution; are they keepers or are they a slight disraction on the bumpy road of life. I haven't heard them, but I have a pair on order and I sure hope that they are better than my 30 year old Boston A400s.
Yes, they are keepers ( disclaimer that I have the Omen Defs but I bet they both have the same sonic characteristics) and pair well with a wide variety of
amps. What are you planning to pair them with? Two cheap and cheerful solutions to consider would be a virtue amp or a Miniwatt. Both sound excellent with the Omens for the $$$.
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Yes, they are keepers ( disclaimer that I have the Omen Defs but I bet they both have the same sonic characteristics) and pair well with a wide variety of
amps. What are you planning to pair them with? Two cheap and cheerful solutions to consider would be a virtue amp or a Miniwatt. Both sound excellent with the Omens for the $$$.
I'm going to pair them with either a rebuilt and upgraded Dynaco ST70 or an Almarro A205A mkii. I'm hoping the Alamarro will drive them. It's a 5 watt SEP running EL84s. The Almarro is a wonderful little integrated. Heck... the Almarro is cheap and cheerful too.
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Yes, they are keepers ( disclaimer that I have the Omen Defs...)
X2. Take a while to burn in.
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I'm going to pair them with either a rebuilt and upgraded Dynaco ST70 or an Almarro A205A mkii. I'm hoping the Alamarro will drive them. It's a 5 watt SEP running EL84s. The Almarro is a wonderful little integrated. Heck the Almarro, it's cheap and cheerful too.
The Almarro will drive them wonderfully. No doubt at all. Please Let us know your impressions after you have them burned in.
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The Almarro will drive them wonderfully. No doubt at all. Please Let us know your impressions after you have them burned in.
You bet!
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It will take several hundred hours.
In my case ...... the Omens sounded very flat and 2 dimensional till around 400 or so hours. Also center image would change around from day to day.
They now have around 700 and the sound has really opened up. Deep and Wide
I came from maggie 12qr's and the Omens really do not give up anything in terms of stage width. In my room they have a deeper soundstage than the maggies and the height is about the same.
The BIG difference is the Omens have HUGE dynamics. I have an Anthem Integrated one...which I am using only the power amp section which have 4 EL84's per channel for 25 watts and also have the McCormack DNA-1 which is a brute.
They both sound great on the Omens. I actually prefer the DNA-1......or at least this week I do :)
Ken
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I tried the Omens with my friend's Dynaco ST-70 and IMO the Miniwatt is a better match.
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Finally got around to posting some photos of my Zu Omen Definitions and storage upgrades to my audio room:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=42444)
(http://cgim.audiogon.com/i/vs/s/f/1297011476.jpg)
(http://cgim.audiogon.com/i/vs/s/f/1297011478.jpg)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=42449)
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Wow...great finish. What is it..... :drool: :drool: :drool: :drool: ?
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Wow...great finish. What is it..... :drool: :drool: :drool: :drool: ?
The Zu Omen Defs are in natural Maple. Or were you asking about the table? lol
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I'm captivated by the storage upgrades.
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The Zu Omen Defs are in natural Maple. Or were you asking about the table? lol
Well it is a lovely table of course....hahahahaha
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Hi,
So can anyone chime in with a review of some kind?
Thanks
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I suppose I could get a review up. In the next month or so. Let me chime in and say that these are keepers.
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I tried the Omens with my friend's Dynaco ST-70 and IMO the Miniwatt is a better match.
Do you know if it was a stock or modified ST 70? There are some very nice mods avaialble.
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I have been told that the guys at Zu prefer solid state amplification for the Omens, while tubes are the clear preference for the Soul Superflys.
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I have been told that the guys at Zu prefer solid state amplification for the Omens, while tubes are the clear preference for the Soul Superflys.
Yep, that's what they told me also...though I have had both and so far prefer the warmth of a nice tube. Will report back later after I go higher up the SS food chain.
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I've tried a variety of tube and ss amps with the Omens :
Miniwatt ( diode mod )
Bada Tube Solid State hybrid ( MF clone )
Classe CAP101
Fisher 400 ( 16 ohm terminals )
Dynaco ST-70 ( no mods )
HK 500 tube amp (16 ohm terminals )
Marantz 1150
Topping TP21 ( t-amp )
Dayton DTA100 ( t-amp )
Rotel FAX 150 Single Ended Tube Receiver
Panasonic XR55 Class D
Sure TK2050 Class D with Auric 3.8 Tube Pre
My favorites by far have been the Miniwatt and Sure Class D.
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I've tried a variety of tube and ss amps with the Omens :
Miniwatt ( diode mod )
Bada Tube Solid State hybrid ( MF clone )
Classe CAP101
Fisher 400 ( 16 ohm terminals )
Dynaco ST-70 ( no mods )
HK 500 tube amp (16 ohm terminals )
Marantz 1150
Topping TP21 ( t-amp )
Dayton DTA100 ( t-amp )
Rotel FAX 150 Single Ended Tube Receiver
Panasonic XR55 Class D
Sure TK2050 Class D with Auric 3.8 Tube Pre
My favorites by far have been the Miniwatt and Sure Class D.
After checking out the Miniwatt and the Sure TK2050 on the web, they both look cheap and cheerful. Did you get the Sure from Parts Express?
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After checking out the Miniwatt and the Sure TK2050 on the web, they both look cheap and cheerful. Did you get the Sure from Parts Express?
I heard the Miniwatt also and it was quite nice.....definitely cheap and cheerful. And there is one on Audiogon FS right now.
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Yes, I bought the plug and play Sure TK2050 and Meanwell PS from PE ( under $100 ) and mounted them in a wood case with a plexi-glass cover and drilled holes over the fan. There are pictures in my gallery over at Audio Review.
The original 4 tube Miniwatt ( APPJ ) is still available on ebay for $199. Just search for world's smallest tube amp.
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I have used both ss and tube amplification on my Omens. I used to think that I didn't like tube amplification. That bias has changed with the omens. I now believe that everything is based on system synergy. The omens just love tubes and that makes me love tubes :thumb:
I think what zu was saying was that the sound would be fine with SS on the omen but that the Soul (because it is so finicky with your source etc. would be better if you just went tube).
One of the beautiful things about the Zu's is that you can pretty much make things as warm as you want but it wont make your system sound fuzzy or sloppy. I get nothing but lean, open, and solid images from the omens in my setup. And the tone is warm and liquid. To me - this is very satisfying.
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Yes, I bought the plug and play Sure TK2050 and Meanwell PS from PE ( under $100 ) and mounted them in a wood case with a plexi-glass cover and drilled holes over the fan. There are pictures in my gallery over at Audio Review.
The original 4 tube Miniwatt ( APPJ ) is still available on ebay for $199. Just search for world's smallest tube amp.
Hope you don't mind
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=42615)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=42616)
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Yep, that's my Sure amp and with a tube pre it's matches well with the Omens as well as my Tektons 4.5's.
I believe the Omens are rated at 97 dbs but in the real world I would say their efficiency is more like 93db which is the same as the Tekton Fostex driver. A handful of watts is all the Omens need but they seem to thrive on whatever you throw at them.
I would be interested to know how the standard Omens compare to the Omen Defs. How Zu managed to put two 10 inch FR drivers in the same box without them competing with each other seems amazing.
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lol, I took a glance at the network a while back and it seems that they just wired the drivers in parallel and added more fiberglass. I have the Def. They sound absolutely great.
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Yes, I bought the plug and play Sure TK2050 and Meanwell PS from PE ( under $100 ) and mounted them in a wood case with a plexi-glass cover and drilled holes over the fan. There are pictures in my gallery over at Audio Review.
The original 4 tube Miniwatt ( APPJ ) is still available on ebay for $199. Just search for world's smallest tube amp.
Very cool. I liked the pictures. The Miniwatt must be a single ended pentode? triode? What kind of power tube is that? I think I'll be looking at PE this weekend.
Cheers
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Yep, and FedEx claims seems to take a lot of time.. :cry: Here's my case due to poor packaging:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=40459)
Just heard FedEx has denied the claim!!??..I think I hadn't ever heard of that if I hadn't contacted Zu by myself - ok, they promised me to arrange a replacement pair but I should wait through the production process - but that shouldn't take very long.. :nono: I'm definitely not happy with this situation.. :cry:
jouni
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Miniwatt S1 same as APPJ PA0803A still sold new on ebay
two 6P1 power tubes ( triode single ended circuit )
two 6J1 pentode tubes
Giant killer tube upgrades: Russian 6P1p-EV and WE403B
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lol, I took a glance at the network a while back and it seems that they just wired the drivers in parallel and added more fiberglass. I have the Def. They sound absolutely great.
Here is an interesting article that describes the parallel drivers in the Dominance (I talked to Gerrit a few days ago at Zu and he said that the Def's are indeed in parallel just as is the Dominance).......
http://www.6moons.com/industryfeatures/dominance/1.html
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I’m curious to find out if there are any strong opinions when listening to the Omens on a carpeted floor. Is the bass improved if placed on a solid surface (tile, board, etc)?
I had a pair of Omens, returned them, and traded for walnut Superflys, been breaking in the Superflys for the past two weeks. Both are great speakers, the Superflys are even better.
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I’m curious to find out if there are any strong opinions when listening to the Omens on a carpeted floor. Is the bass improved if placed on a solid surface (tile, board, etc)?
I had a pair of Omens, returned them, and traded for walnut Superflys, been breaking in the Superflys for the past two weeks. Both are great speakers, the Superflys are even better.
I'm on the 2nd floor of my house, and the bass of my Omens tightened up a bit when I placed them on boards. If you're on the first floor with carpet on concrete it would probably be a different story. I also placed the omens on 6" stands and it smoothed them out a little, I think because they're firing more directly at me, more on axis I guess.
What is better about the SFs vs the Omens?
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The Omens share their 10 inch driver and super tweeter with the Super Flys. The difference in price is due to cabinet construction. I can't see the SF as a cost effective upgrade over the standard Omens.
I see that Zu has revised their comparison chart. Originally they rated the Omens best when connected to a tube amp's 16 ohm taps. Now it's with an 8 ohm tap. I tried the 16 ohm taps on several amps with the Omens and could tell no difference vs 8 ohm taps.
No doubt Zu is catering to the HT crowd when they list performance of their speakers when paired with receivers. But I would think most of us realize that HE full rangers and tubes make for a better marriage.
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The Omens share their 10 inch driver and super tweeter with the Super Flys. The difference in price is due to cabinet construction. I can't see the SF as a cost effective upgrade over the standard Omens.
Actually the Superfly uses a more efficient driver, called the HO driver. This is the same one in the Dominance line. The Omen and Omen Defs use a less efficient driver. I'm not sure if this was done for performance or to reach a price point as I've heard both and the HO driver is a bit more dynamic in the Superfly's. I found it to be even more "live like" and engaging, though both are great in that capacity.
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Concerning the difference between the Omen and Superfly, I can’t do a direct comparison; however, the speaker placement is identical and I did not change the electronics and cables. The SF sounds a little more engaging, three dimensional and slightly more detailed. The most striking difference it the integration between the 2 drivers. With the Omens, I was able to tell that there are two distinct drivers, with the SFs I can’t tell. Just sounds more cohesive. I do not think that it is due to the reverse placement of the two drivers. Right now I have about 200 hours on the SFs, still not broken in completely. Do not get me wrong, the Omens are fantastic and a great value. I would have been quite happy with the Omens.
The speakers are on the second floor, I definitely will try a board underneath them. Thanks for the suggestion.
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The 10 inch Zu's drivers are made by Eminence of Kentucky. Eminence also makes the 10 inch Tekton Lore drivers as well as Hawthorne's full range drivers.
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So are the differences due to in house modifications then?
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Zu adds their own unique phase plugs to the stock whizzers that come from Eminence and heavily dope the cones.
Eminence is the largest speaker company in the world but most of their business is in the production of guitar speakers.
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The 10 inch Zu's drivers are made by Eminence of Kentucky. Eminence also makes the 10 inch Tekton Lore drivers as well as Hawthorne's full range drivers.
Hi Poultrygeist and all Audio Circle members.
Tell me if I am wrong but all Eminence drivers are made in USA which is not the case for Dayton, whose drivers are mostly made in Asia ? ? ?
Guy 13
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Zu machines their tweeters and builds their own cabinets on site. The drivers are made in Eminence, Kentucky population 3,000. Eminence is located half way between Lexington and Louisville in the heart of bourbon and horse country.
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I have followed this thread intently and I am intrigued by the Omen and the full range driver speaker concept. Still I wonder if it's worth the gamble for me. I currently have a set of Tyler Acoustics floortstanding monitors that incorporate the SEAS excel drivers (one midbass and one tweeter). I love the detail and resolution they offer me over my previous speakers. They inhabit a 12'x15' or so area that opens on one side wall to the rest of my basement and the rear wall is back probably 25'. I use a Marantz receiver currently as my pre/pro and a Vincent 150 wpc amplifier drives the front speakers. It is a home theater and 2 channel listening setup for me.
My question is whether you think I should experiment with the Zu sound in this Omen speaker. At the price and the satisfaction guarantee it's a very affordable gamble, for sure.
Just seeking some advice and some comments about how happy (or not) owners are with the Omens.
Mark
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The Omens are definite keepers in my book. And the in home demo is a great option and takes all the pressure off of the purchase. I find this better than buying locally, because the local dealers are not going to give you 60 days to determine if their product suits your tastes.
You should be warned though, that the Omens are quite sensitive to amplifocation and upstream components. That can be a great thing or it could lead to addicting behaviour of endless upgrades, because you will easily be able to hear the fruits of your upgrades.
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I wasted years and money on inefficient speakers and power trip amps before discovering the magic of HE full range drivers and low powered tube amps. Can't see myself ever returning to conventional speakers with sound robbing crossovers.
My venture into full range sound includes the Omens, 4.5 Tektons, 8" Tang Band Open Baffles, Betsy Open Baffles, Dayton Pipes and I'm currently building the new Frugal Horn Mk3 ( back loaded horns ). I have the drivers for the Nelson Pass BOFU TL but that build is in the future. I hope to eventually try every application of the full range driver and so far none have disappointed.
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I had a pair of Tyler Acoustic Taylos for several years before I upgraded to the ZU Druid MK4. Both are lovely speakers, but the Zu sound really draws me into the music in a way that the Taylos never could. Both were powered with the same 80-watt class A amp. The dynamics, punch and scale of sound are unmatched in the Druid...I'm not sure how it compares to the Omen, but I'm sure they're quite similar.
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Very helpful replies - thank you. Sounds like I need to make the purchase and find out for myself. I'll be sure to post my impressions.
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A friend has a pair of Omens and we "amp rolled" last night; went from an Almarro 318 integrated to a pair of Manley Mahi Mahis (in triode) with a Cary SLP-98 preamp.
Very different, of course, but my point in reporting here is that the Omens reflected these downstream changes readily, suggesting that they're pretty darned transparent.
Dynamic with plenty of detail, and driven easily by amps with modest power. In my opinion, the Omens are a fun, lively speaker that is well worth the price.
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I wasted years and money on inefficient speakers and power trip amps before discovering the magic of HE full range drivers and low powered tube amps. Can't see myself ever returning to conventional speakers with sound robbing crossovers.
I wonder how Zu's or Tektons would compare to my Hyperion HPS938 speakers (they got very good reviews on 6moons, enjoy the music, etc...).
I also have an intrest in magneplanar speakers.
If anyone had any experience with Hyperion speakers and full range driver speakers let me know.
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How did the Mahis sound?
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How did the Mahis sound?
As you might expect, really different presentation than the Almarro. I found the Mahis to be much more of an "audiophile experience", if that makes any sense, well balanced, neutral, tight imaging... great amps. In contrast, the Almarro has a saturated mid-range that really appeals to some.
For me, it kind of depends on my mood...
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Anyone looking for inexpensive amplification to drive their new Zus should consider Redgum audio's integrated amps. I'm borrowing Sunnydaze's RGi120 right now and is a really incredible match with Zu speakers. Runs cool, standard component size, cool appearance and stunning sound.
I like this better than any solid state amplification I've heard with my Superflys to date--this includes First Watt F1, F1J, Pass Alephs, Virtue TWO.2 and a Panasonic digital receiver. Really, really good sound. My primary amplification solution is a pair of 845 SET monoblocks driven by a Shindo Auerieges-L preamplifier and this one box integrated is good enough that I'm not missing it (its been down for a couple weeks as I await new Pavane 845-T power tubes to replace blown 845Bs).
I'm trying to buy the 35 watt version on audiogon now for a summer/backup amp... I don't even need another amp but want it in my stable--highly recommended!
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I've had my Omens about ten days now and have been running them during the day while I'm at work for break in. I came home tonight and heard a static crackly type noise out of one of the speakers. I switched cables and the noise staid with the same speaker. After getting down close to the speaker and listening it sounds like one of the tweeters is operating intermitently.
I'll give Zu a call in the AM, but anybody have an idea on how to diagnose this? It could be a loose wire but I'm reluctant to open the speaker up without talking to Zu first.
Besides the crackle, they are sounding better and better.
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I spoke with Zu today and they said to go ahead and look inside the cabinet. Turns out is was a loose wire to the super tweeter. All is well.
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Amen to that brother :D :D
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Izman
I'm jealous over your 318B. I have the little 205A MkII and would love to have her big brother. Your system must sound pretty nice.
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Can you still purchase a pair of Omens for $999?
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Can you still purchase a pair of Omens for $999?
On Zu's website and at Music Direct the listed price is now $1500.
If I were in the market for a pair I would call Zu and ask. I heard that at one time they listed $1500 but would sell @ $1000 if you asked, but that was when MD was selling for $1000.
At $1500 I think it puts the Omens out of the Cheap category. From what Zman is saying about his Tekton Lores I'd say that would be a good way to go for under a grand ($850).
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You can also call Zu about B Stock and returned items. There is a pair of Superfly's for sale B stock now for $1800. Not cheap, but a very good deal. They may have Omens also.
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Who in their right mind would pay $1500 for a speaker when MANY have purchased the same speaker for $999, especially in this economy? I have always wanted to try full-range drivers and I LOVE the look of the Sangria Red. I just can't bring myself to pay $1500 when I know others purchased it for less and I don't think I should have to call a company and ask them to sell it to me for the price they have sold it to so many others for...........just sayin'
ALSO.... I don't think you should pay for an item 4-6 weeks before it is shipped. A special order, sure, but not a stock product. It reminds me of another speaker company that is no more and that scares the crap out of me.
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Who in their right mind would pay $1500 for a speaker when MANY have purchased the same speaker for $999, especially in this economy? I have always wanted to try full-range drivers and I LOVE the look of the Sangria Red. I just can't bring myself to pay $1500 when I know others purchased it for less and I don't think I should have to call a company and ask them to sell it to me for the price they have sold it to so many others for...........just sayin'
ALSO.... I don't think you should pay for an item 4-6 weeks before it is shipped. A special order, sure, but not a stock product. It reminds me of another speaker company that is no more and that scares the crap out of me.
It may be a reasonable view that a company has the right to run a sale whenever it wants to do so, and it assumes the risks of gaining and losing customers by doing so. For instance, those consumers who purchased speakers during Zu's Black Friday Sale gambled that the relatively untested and unreported upon products would be worthwhile; those customers assumed some risk and were rewarded for taking that risk by receiving a great price. I'm in that camp with my purchase of a pair of Omen Definitions for a price that I cannot touch now.
Here's an analogy: I wish I bought gobs of Google stock years ago before it took off, but think it would not be fruitful to bemoan that I didn't step up and put my $ out there on the unknown. I chose to be risk adverse, no one forced me one way or the other. Google doesn't owe me anything, nor do the savvy investors that gambled on Google and were rewarded on taking a risk. Same sort of thing happens all the time in life in relationships (still glad I asked my wife to marry me!), financial areas, audio, etc.
As for prepayment - I feel this happens all the time, too (concert tickets, other audio shops, etc). One can elect to make the purchase via CC at the beginning of the billing cycle to minimize the gap between payment and date you receive the speakers. Zu Audio has the right to make their money, it's doubtful that the current interest rates on $1,500 for a month is making them (or you) rich, nor is their free shipping and 60 day no-question return policies respectively. They are a relatively small outfit with seemingly quite a few satisfied customers.
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I don't know, lots of stuff goes on off sale. And Zu launched the Omen for $1500 with an intro price of $999. If it's worth $1500 then it's worth $1500, which I'm not sure it's the best considering some of the competition. But I love my Omens.
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Anyone want to throw in a recommendation for a cdp that matches well to a Zu + tube amp combo?
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I'm enjoying an older Rotel RCD-855 CDP which has the great sounding and no longer available TDA 1541A chip. You can find a variety of players on ebay with the TDA 1541A chip which are cheap, cheerful and sound better than most of the new stuff.
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Has anyone else read the "History" section of the new Zu audio website (http://www.zuaudio.com/#zu-audio-history.php)? The section labeled "2010 Q4" offers interesting insights into the past few months at the company, and might help explain their recent price fluctuations. Sounds to me like they'll never again offer the kinds of sales that we saw this past December.
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Has anyone else read the "History" section of the new Zu audio website (http://www.zuaudio.com/#zu-audio-history.php)? The section labeled "2010 Q4" offers interesting insights into the past few months at the company, and might help explain their recent price fluctuations. Sounds to me like they'll never again offer the kinds of sales that we saw this past December.
You're not kidding, great but sobering and troubling read from a business "internal controls" standpoint and others. I agree that the 2010 Black Friday and December sales will not be returning and seemingly never should have happened. I hope all works out, and wonder if there are any lawsuits in the offing.
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I was going back and forth about purchasing and after reading that section on their website, I have decided to go another way.
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I couldn't pull up the history link. Has it been removed?
I bought the Omens at their intro price of $999 but would not have paid $1500. The Tekton Lores currently priced at 1K also have a tricked out Eminence 10 inch driver but with the highly regarded Audax super tweeter and a 8ohm load.
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I couldn't pull up the history link. Has it been removed?
the link is there; you must click on the up-down "v" at the left side to read everything...
doug s.
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I couldn't pull up the history link. Has it been removed?
I bought the Omens at their intro price of $999 but would not have paid $1500. The Tekton Lores currently priced at 1K also have a tricked out Eminence 10 inch driver but with the highly regarded Audax super tweeter and a 8ohm load.
Do you regret your purchase of the Omens? Do you wish you would have gone with the Lores? Based on what I have read, I think the Lore is going to be the better speaker sounding but the Omen looks nicer if you ask me. Unfortunately the WAF matters. I'm a little afraid to purchase from Zu, they are sounding very AV123ish to me.
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what is bizarre about the ZU thing, is that their new high dollar PR firm allowed them to put that stuff in their official history.
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WOW! Some read. Guess that explains the up and down pricing.
I'm glad I bought the Omens at their intro price. I've never heard the Lores but I appreciate the high quality of my Tekton 4.5. The Omens as good as they sound contain no magic inside those gorgeous cabinets.
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Do you regret your purchase of the Omens? Do you wish you would have gone with the Lores? Based on what I have read, I think the Lore is going to be the better speaker sounding but the Omen looks nicer if you ask me. Unfortunately the WAF matters. I'm a little afraid to purchase from Zu, they are sounding very AV123ish to me.
I don't regret the $999 Omen purchase for a minute. Great speakers that I will enjoy for a long time. If I had it over to do I'd buy the omens over the lore again at the intro pricing. At $1500 vs. $850 I would go for the lore.
I have not read much / anything negative about either speaker. I have no reason to believe that one would out perform the other.
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Hmm... That all makes a ton of sense. Wow, I exchanged a number of emails with KP and thought his methods were unusual, but never pegged him as a crook!
I hope Zu can recover from this ordeal--they're a great company with a lot to offer and deserve to survive on their merits.
Irrespective of whose fault it is, their pricing structure is probably screwed and people have been conditioned not to be willing to pay what these speakers are worth.
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That's a very interesting, and sad, read on the KP's matter. I do hope Zu Audio will overcome these difficulties and survive as a company, because I really like its products and many of the people who worked there.
It explained a great deal about my interactions and observations with Zu over the past months. Coming from a finance and accounting background, I was really surprised that just one person was doing all the invoicing, accounting, adjustment and office duties for a company experiencing such a level of sales.
I was wondering why KP's stated plan to transition Zu from direct sales to dealer-network model would be to usher that in with a huge direct sale campaign of hugely discounted BF and Christmas sales, instead of through the new dealer network. And to follow up with recent unending eBay auctions on their ICs and cables, which often ended up at greatly discounted prices. I figured it was a sales number and cash flow strategy to improve the balance sheets to attract new investors, but never figured it would be so dramatic behind-the-scene.
I sincerely hope Zu weathers this misstep and go on to designing more great audio products.
For disclosure, I ordered the Zu Omen's and Zu Soul Superfly's during the sales, as well as a whole bunch of IC's and cables. I returned the Omens only because I was "outvoted" due to WAF and furniture compatibility issues :cuss: but horse-trade to keep the Superfly's :green: :thumb: I am very happy with the Superflys and the accessories, as well as the Omens when I had them.
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I returned the Omens only because I was "outvoted" due to WAF and furniture compatibility issues :cuss:
ha! I am headed down that route. I have picked up a set of these from Herbie's audio lab to try out.
http://herbiesaudiolab.net/studgl2.jpg (http://herbiesaudiolab.net/studgl2.jpg)
I am hoping to be able to scoot the omens out of the way when the boss doesn't want to see them. :D I have some vibration issues due to being on hardwood floors over a crawl space...so I am attempting to kill two birds with one stone.
Sean
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ha! I am headed down that route. I have picked up a set of these from Herbie's audio lab to try out.
http://herbiesaudiolab.net/studgl2.jpg (http://herbiesaudiolab.net/studgl2.jpg)
I am hoping to be able to scoot the omens out of the way when the boss doesn't want to see them. :D I have some vibration issues due to being on hardwood floors over a crawl space...so I am attempting to kill two birds with one stone.
Sean
Sean,
Let me know how those Herbie's footers work out. My Superfly's are also on hardwood over crawl space (the whole house is raised).
You may also want to try using Home Depot tiles underneath the speakers. Will probably reduce the vibrations and improve the bass too.
About the scooting of the speakers, someone earlier in the thread bought Home Depot industrial ribbed floor mat to place below the tiles to help with moving the speakers. IIRC, the mats were cut to size, glued rubber sides back-to-back with the ribbed carpet surface on the outside. Believe the mats are Shaw's "Rib- It" Have fun and good luck with you know what. :green:
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(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=44211)
Here is my solution to tighten the bass.
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I used black granite tiles from Home Depot atop industrial ribbed carpet squares glued together. This makes the Omens easy to move around. The legs are lag bolts inside plastic feet also from HD.
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I used black granite tiles from Home Depot atop industrial ribbed carpet squares glued together. This makes the Omens easy to move around. The legs are lag bolts inside plastic feet also from HD.
Ah, Poultrygeist, that's you who suggested the tiles and ribbed carpet solution. :thumb:
Very nice looking solution, especially with those plastic feet. Which HD dept are those plastic feet found in? Do the lag bolts just slot in or screw into the feet?
Any chance of a close-up pic of the plastic feet? Thanks.
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i was wandering the exact same question. Those are sweeeeeet :thumb:
I Ah, Poultrygeist, that's you who suggested the tiles and ribbed carpet solution. :thumb:
Very nice looking solution, especially with those plastic feet. Which HD dept are those plastic feet found in? Do the lag bolts just slot in or screw into the feet?
Any chance of a close-up pic of the plastic feet? Thanks.
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The plastic cap feet are on the same isle as the lag bolts ( not lag screws ) at HD. The plastic caps are white and I spray painted them silver to match the lag bolt legs. There are several sized plastic cap feet but only one is a nice tight fit for the 3/8 lag bolt heads. I can't recall the length of the lags but they are in one of my earlier posts.
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The plastic cap feet are on the same isle as the lag bolts ( not lag screws ) at HD. The plastic caps are white and I spray painted them silver to match the lag bolt legs. There are several sized plastic cap feet but only one is a nice tight fit for the 3/8 lag bolt heads. I can't recall the length of the lags but they are in one of my earlier posts.
Is there any sliding of the speakers when they're playing while using the plastic caps?
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No, the speaker capped feet stay in place on the granite tile even when I slide it around by the top.
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Here's mine with the threaded gliders from Herbie's Audio Lab:
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/_s5203ZQlroU/TYEKgOk-hXI/AAAAAAAAAes/uDMx61OCBek/s800/zu_gliders.jpg)
They fixed my vibration/bass issues, sound great, and look great.
Sean
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Sean,
Do you have a crawlspace?
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yes...we have a 4ft crawlspace. i am seeing a very big improvement in bass definition.
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I added the granite tile bases as I was still getting some reflection off the floor.
Counting the one inch base ( granite tile + ribbed mats ) my Omens are raised three inches in front and two inches in the rear.
When sitting in my sweet spot the drivers are pointed at my ears and the backward tilt offers better sound dispersion vs no tilt.
The Omens have such full sound I enjoy listening from adjoining rooms. Has anyone else noticed this?
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The Omens have such full sound I enjoy listening from adjoining rooms. Has anyone else noticed this?
Yes; my spouse especially noted this.
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(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=44345)
Here is a picture of two of my favorite full rangers.
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(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=44350)
2 of my favorite speakers that happen to be full rangers (Zu Omen, Tekton Katz Meow)
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Now that you have the Omens will you keep the Meows?
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Now that you have the Omens will you keep the Meows?
Yes, I have 2 systems. I have the Omens in the main rig now, I like the more bass I get with the 10" drivers. But I'll swap the Katz in and out I'm sure. Both are great speakers.
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(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=44390)
I'm currently building these horns so it will be interesting to see how they compare to the Omens.
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Here is a pic of my current setup - things will be changing a lot very soon. I just bought a Squeezbox duet and a Sony XA5400es - I am looking at phono-pre amps now.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=44405)
Things are a little messy right now, excuse that. Notice I put some granite tiles under the speakers. Bass and imaging became more focused. As you can see, placement is so that the tweeters are ear level and point maybe a foot or two behind the head. I find this opens the sound stage a little and give a nice balance to the sound. I also moved them a little closer to the wall and this gives me a great tonal balance. The 10 watt 300b gives plenty of punch. The whole system is very resolving - that is why I am upgrading my sources now.
\
Sam
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Sam,
I'd like to hear more about your 300B. I'm considering one as well as a 2a3c.
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I love it! I have tried about 6 different amps with the Zu's and this is the one I am going to stick with. It has led to a few system changes around it - I can sound too smooth with certain cables/combos and it does not have the drive of the push-pull amps.
But it has tremendous "prat" and is great with all genres and recording I throw at it. Unless you are one that is peeved buy not having that final 5% of rawness or drive I could whole heatedly recommend the 300b. I think zu and 300b are a match made in heaven. I am still tweaking things - maybe the rawness is hiding somewhere (I don't miss it too much) but as is there is plenty of energy in the recordings AND things still go louder than I can handle without distortion. Zero listening fatigue.
I have not tried it, but the 845 may give you that extra rawness without sacrificing those precious SET qualities. Then again it may not be as pacey or holographic as the 300b so I am not forcing myself to go out and find one. Too much of a chance and I am happy with what I have.
The 2a3 sounds like something that would be similar.
The BT 300b are very extended and holographic and the zu's have responded very well to every change up the chain from it.
I just got some new sources and will be swapping cables for a while. We shall see how the sony will handle "rawness"
Feel free to pm me,
Sam
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What make/model is your 300B?
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I have not tried it, but the 845 may give you that extra rawness without sacrificing those precious SET qualities. Then again it may not be as pacey or holographic as the 300b so I am not forcing myself to go out and find one. Too much of a chance and I am happy with what I have.
I'm running with the best of both worlds using 300B (Treasures) to drive 845s (845B/845T Pavanes--unsure of preference).
One thing I'm finding more and more is that the Zus do like some extra power. I'm looking into purchasing a solid state integrated for Summer time listening and to have a nice contrast to my tubes. The Redgum RGi120 in particular has been calling my name since I recently borrowed it from a fellow ACer.
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I love it! I have tried about 6 different amps with the Zu's and this is the one I am going to stick with. It has led to a few system changes around it - I can sound too smooth with certain cables/combos and it does not have the drive of the push-pull amps.
Hello Sam,
What other amps did you try?
I'm running my standard Omens with a DIY 2A3 amp and the combo is excellent, but I've only tried a couple of other single ended amps and a 150 watt vintage SS Yamaha so I don't have a lot to compare to.
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sebrof,
How many watts does your DIY 2A3 make?
I'm looking at a Dared MP-2A3c that makes 8 per channel but wonder if I'd need a little more for the standard Omens?
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sebrof,
How many watts does your DIY 2A3 make?
I'm looking at a Dared MP-2A3c that makes 8 per channel but wonder if I'd need a little more for the standard Omens?
FYI - The Dared is rated at 8 watts maximum on the dared US website. I think the max you'll get continuous from a 2a3 SET is about 4.5 watts which is what my DIY amp is rated at. I expect the Dared is about the same.
I really like my 2A3 / Omen combo, it's darn near perfect for me but I always warn people that it may not be for them.
Small room, 85 - 95 db loudness. If that sounds like you then a 4 watt amp may be plenty of power. Big room and real loud? I would recommend against SET, or at least low power including 300b.
What's your room size and how loud do you listen?
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I have to say, my room is quite large. And my 8.5-10 watt 300b SET goes loud enough to where it is quite uncomfortable to listen.
Sam
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So far my Omens haven't exactly starved on their puny diet of 2.5 MiniWatts in their 15X15 room but they may well appreciate a little more headroom. The MW volume pot stays in the 12 to 3 o'clock range and we only listen to small group jazz.
The price of 300B tubes is scary when they aren't included in the amp purchase price.
Might a 2A3 do it for me?
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So far my Omens haven't exactly starved on their puny diet of 2.5 MiniWatts in their 15X15 room but they may well appreciate a little more headroom. The MW volume pot stays in the 12 to 3 o'clock range and we only listen to small group jazz.
The price of 300B tubes is scary when they aren't included in the amp purchase price.
Might a 2A3 do it for me?
I have plenty of power with my 2A3 amp in my 12' x 13' room, and it sounds like I listen to a wider variety of music and maybe louder than you do. If you are in a 15 x 15 and the miniwatt is almost enough then I'd say you would be happy with a 2A3. I've only heard a few 300b amps and never in the same system as a 2A3 so can't really comment on 2A3 vs. 300b, but many people prefer the 2A3 if they can live with the lower power.
FWIW - I never really wish for more power, maybe once in a great while for a song at a time. But read Gopher's posts and you think that maybe it's just that I haven't heard the Omens with a good powerful amp (I have listened with a 150 watt vintage Yamaha, but...). So who knows...Enjoy.
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Well, I have finalized my system. I have reached a level that I couldn't have dreamed of. I am content with the performance and will be holding on until I can afford a whole new system in a whole new room. I thank the Zu Omen Defs for allowing me to get to this level.
Sam
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Sam,
What change was the tipping point for you? I felt exactly the same way a few weeks back with my 845B driven Superflys--when a tube crapped out on me I took the opportunity to 'upgrade' and as is often the case, I've been tweaking my buns off trying to get back to how it was. Finally caved and bought a THIRD pair of expensive triode tubes--should be here this week I hope.
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A 2A3 might be a good choice for you. I was lucky enough to have a friend bring over a MiniWatt and I loved it. For the size and price it was stunning actually. But it was not as transparent as the Melody I2A3 that I was running at the time. Also the soundstaging was much smaller on the MiniWatt, and though very engaging, both of us agreed that the I2A3 was a large improvement across the board.
So far my Omens haven't exactly starved on their puny diet of 2.5 MiniWatts in their 15X15 room but they may well appreciate a little more headroom. The MW volume pot stays in the 12 to 3 o'clock range and we only listen to small group jazz.
The price of 300B tubes is scary when they aren't included in the amp purchase price.
Might a 2A3 do it for me?
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The Sony XA5400es. It brought a whole level of realism and did not sacrifice musicality like many of the other cdp's I had been trying. Also I got longer speaker cables and am able to move the rack to a more attractive location that I can live with - and they improved the sound! The rawness is back without more power and the tone, dynamics, definition and detail are all sweet.
I never believed a recording could take me to a real performance and it still doesn't but this system seems to at least reach a grey line of sorts and so I will stop there.
Sam
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That's awesome on the source player—pickup and speakers, the two biggest things in the playback system save for the recording. Okay, the room fits in there somewhere. But yeah, the recording is key, not just the content but the art of the capture, mixing and mastering. For me playback and live are two different arts. Source and loudspeakers, then match everything between. Diggin' that you like the speaks in your rig!
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That's awesome on the source player—pickup and speakers, the two biggest things in the playback system save for the recording. Okay, the room fits in there somewhere. But yeah, the recording is key, not just the content but the art of the capture, mixing and mastering. For me playback and live are two different arts. Source and loudspeakers, then match everything between. Diggin' that you like the speaks in your rig!
Hey Sean - As you can see, the contributors to this thread have a great appreciation for and admiration of the Zu Omen and Omen Definition product line. Given that it is understood that the Omens are produced to a price point, are there any tweaks that you can pass along to us on the Omens that may have been too cost prohibitive to produce?
Best regards, thanks for a great product, and good luck in Zu's future endevors.
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Excellent question Bugs :thumb:
Hey Sean - As you can see, the contributors to this thread have a great appreciation for and admiration of the Zu Omen and Omen Definition product line. Given that it is understood that the Omens are produced to a price point, are there any tweaks that you can pass along to us on the Omens that may have been too cost prohibitive to produce?
Best regards, thanks for a great product, and good luck in Zu's future endevors.
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Hey Sean - As you can see, the contributors to this thread have a great appreciation for and admiration of the Zu Omen and Omen Definition product line. Given that it is understood that the Omens are produced to a price point, are there any tweaks that you can pass along to us on the Omens that may have been too cost prohibitive to produce?
Best regards, thanks for a great product, and good luck in Zu's future endevors.
Ditto re: Omen Defs. Internal cabinet bracing comes to mind, think I read that somewhere.
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Received my 2a3 a few days ago and it's 6 watts is all I will ever need for the Omens and my Mk3 Frugal Horns.
:D
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I just picked up a DIY First Watt F3 Clone and my initial impressions are that if you are looking for a cheap and cheerful match to your Omens or Omen Defs, this would be an excellent choice at an amazing price.
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Did you get the one on audiogon the other day from the guy that was selling the 3, 4 & 5?
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Did you get the one on audiogon the other day from the guy that was selling the 3, 4 & 5?
No I picked it up about 10 days ago from here on AC I believe. It is in great shape, works perfectly, and is suprisingly cheerful paired with my Modwright pre.
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Received my 2a3 a few days ago and it's 6 watts is all I will ever need for the Omens and my Mk3 Frugal Horns.
:D
Which 2A3 did you get?
Mine is a DIY I built about a year ago based on the WE91A, 6C6 pentode drivers. It sounds good to mme with the standard Omens.
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FYI - For you in the Central Texas area, Whetstone Audio in Austin just announced they'll be a Zu Audio dealer.
Brian seems like a great guy, hope it causes a stir.
http://www.whetstoneaudio.com/
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This is awesome news.. i've really been wanting to hear Zu speakers now i'll be able to audition them yay!
interesting since the guy at Whetstone is a huge UK manufacturer guy, but good on him for wanting to bring in an American made brand!
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I sprung for the Dared MP-2a3c and it even came with a pair of white cotton gloves to install the big Shungang 2a3 tubes. I've already replaced the crappy Chinese 6N3's with a quad of NOS GE JAN 5670W and the change is dramatic.
With the Omens and 2a3 I'm hearing the sound board and action of Bill Charlap's piano and the spit in Miles' trumpet. So far I'm very pleased with this combination.
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I sprung for the Dared MP-2a3c and it even came with a pair of white cotton gloves to install the big Shungang 2a3 tubes. I've already replaced the crappy Chinese 6N3's with a quad of NOS GE JAN 5670W and the change is dramatic.
With the Omens and 2a3 I'm hearing the sound board and action of Bill Charlap's piano and the spit in Miles' trumpet. So far I'm very pleased with this combination.
I'm not surprised you like the 2A3 / Omen combo. I love mine.
I have the Shuguang 2A3Cs, not sure if that's what you have. I like them compared to Sovteks and old Sylvainias I have.
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Yes. the Dared has the same handsome Shuguang 2a3c tubes ( wasn't sure of the spelling ). I absolutely don't need anymore power for the Omens.
Considered the 300B but I don't care for anymore bottom end or slam from the Omens in my moderate sized room plus I rarely listen to rock or full orchestral music. Love the transparent detail, great mids and smooth highs of this entry level 2a3c paired with the Omens.
Compared to the charming little Miniwatt the Dared's sound has a lot more meat on it's bones. Both are quite musical with the Omens.
Y'all, this 2a3 is however, generating some serious heat and the 300B is said to run even hotter. I guess I'll be throwing an extra log on the AC to get through the summer here in Dixie.
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i wonder if anyone has tried this amp w/the zu's? i have had good results w/it w/efficient speakers, not zu, tho. and lotsa others have had good experience as well. and, they're not big heat makers. a great amp at a great price, even when new, imo:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=93444.msg930623;topicseen#new
doug s.
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i wonder if anyone has tried this amp w/the zu's? i have had good results w/it w/efficient speakers, not zu, tho. and lotsa others have had good experience as well. and, they're not big heat makers. a great amp at a great price, even when new, imo:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=93444.msg930623;topicseen#new
doug s.
I've been using an Almarro A205A MkII just like this one and I'm very happy with it. These amps do much better when you get rid of the stock tubes and roll in something better. I'm alternating between NOS Mllard and Telefunken EL 84s with h Telefunken AT 7 on the driver tube. The Mullards are warmer and the Telfukens more detailed, This amp has an amazing amount of bass for an amp this size. Be sure to read the 6 Moons reports. Looks like a good price too.
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Does anyone have experience with the Omen Bookshelfs? I need some stand-mountable speakers and I'm considering the bookshelfs.
Thanks in advance....
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Poultrygeist, great build! I also have the Dared MP-2A3C and like it very much. Still searching for some interesting tubes to try aside from the Shuguang black treasure 2A3Z's (which are pricey and I've yet to hear some solid comparisons to other 2A3's).
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Poultrygeist, great build! I also have the Dared MP-2A3C and like it very much. Still searching for some interesting tubes to try aside from the Shuguang black treasure 2A3Z's (which are pricey and I've yet to hear some solid comparisons to other 2A3's).
The JJ 2A3-40s look interesting. I almost bought a pair a few times but never pulled the trigger. Same with the TJ Meshplates. One of these days I'll probably buy one or the other.
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Yesterday I replaced the GE JAN 5670W's with four Tung-Sol 2C51's and the Dared sounds even better. I really love this amp with the Omens as well as with the Frugal Horns I built. As far as 2a3's go it's cheap and cheerful.
Would the JJ's be an upgrade over the Shuguang's?
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Would the JJ's be an upgrade over the Shuguang's?
Well, upgrade is in the ear of the beholder I guess. And the rest of the system makes a big difference, too.
Having said that I believe the JJ's would be a step up from the Shuguang 2A3C, maybe not from the Shuguang Black Treasures though. Maybe one day I'll find out.
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I went from the Chinese 6N3 to the GE 5670 to the Tung Sol 2C51 and finally to the WE 396A and now the Dared sounds about as good as it's gonna get.
Yall this 2a3c is just stupid good with the Omens.
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The 2a3c is a very good tube. I owned a pair of custom Fi 2a3 monoblocks for several years and had the opportunity to use it with some mucho dinereo NOS RCAs, the Shuguang 2a3cs and the Sovtec 2a3s--depending on the rectifier/input being used I went back and forth between prefering the Shuguang to the RCA (both far ahead of Sov).
I'd be careful assuming the Black Treasure is an upgrade. It very well may be, but I just moved from a pair of Shuguang 845Bs to Shuguang Pavane 845-Ts and ended up selling them for a slight loss and going back to Bs.
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I just bought Morganc's Melody I2a3. I look forward to giving it a listen :thumb:
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Sam-fi,
Please let us know how the 2a3 and 300B compare when driving the Omens.
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If I'm not mistaken, the I2a3 is a push pull rather than SET, albeit a very good one. I'm sure it will sound amazing with Zus and its one of the amps they recommended for the very similar Souls, but I'm not sure it will be representative of 2a3 vs. 300b.
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I agree, according to the 6 moons review the I2a3 does not sound like a 2a3 SET at all. It is a zero feedback pp and the circuit seems to have it's own signature.
The 6 moons was a glowing review though and it seemed to compete with a Yamamoto A-08. I am excited - that's all I can say.
Sam.
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Listening to the I2a3 right now. What a phenomenal piece of equipment. It pairs perfectly with the zu omens.
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I've been listening CDs on my Omens with a modified Dynaco ST70 and a sub woofer in a less than optimal listening space and I'm really happy with what I am hearing. I'm using the CDP as a transport into a DAC Magic with the DAC running straight to the amp and sub woofer. Both the amp and the subwoofer have there own volume control.
Seems to me Omen owners are very happy with the speaker. I'm not seeing many come up on the secondary market. And they do seem to keep getting better and better!
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Listening to the I2a3 right now. What a phenomenal piece of equipment. It pairs perfectly with the zu omens.
Sweeet man :thumb: :thumb:
I am so glad that she has found a good home and love is in the air :D
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I've been listening CDs on my Omens with a modified Dynaco ST70 and a sub woofer in a less than optimal listening space and I'm really happy with what I am hearing. I'm using the CDP as a transport into a DAC Magic with the DAC running straight to the amp and sub woofer. Both the amp and the subwoofer have there own volume control.
Seems to me Omen owners are very happy with the speaker. I'm not seeing
many come up on the secondary market. And they do seem to keep getting better and better!
I had a friend bring over an Onkyo AVR with his Ipod and it sounded pretty good.....now that is cheap and cheerful :thumb: No tweaks...no DAC, Mac Mini, etc.....
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Below is a link to the Dared 2a3c I'm using with the Omens.
I listen primarily to small group jazz and the 2a3c/Omen is giving the best reproduction of the tenor sax I've heard. Listening to the tenor's big throaty and guttural sound brings back memories of the years I played in a college big band and my trombone section sat next to the sax section. I'm a sucker for all the nasty detail of great jazz and this combo is giving me that in spades. Right now I'm listening to Ben Webster's big lush and soulful tones on "Danny Boy" and the spit laden air that's leaking from his reed and trailing off above the Omens is just stunning. The wonder of full rangers and SETs is that you get to hear it all!
http://cgi.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cl_sold.pl?ampstube&1304893777
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Listening to the I2a3 right now. What a phenomenal piece of equipment. It pairs perfectly with the zu omens.
Glad to hear you like the I2A3! If anybody else want's to get the same combo there's a barely used one for sale over on audionervosa.com for a crazy good price right now.
Zu and Melody products seem to get along quite well. Adam Labarge of Audioreview.com borrowed one of our AN211's (single ended 16wpc) to try with some Omen Definitions he was reviewing and he raved about the combo. We should do a joint demo tour or something.
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Here is a picture of the Omens with the Dared MP-2a3c amp and MHZS 66F tube CDP.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=47451)
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Seeing glass/windows between a pair of speakers hurts my soul.
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Seeing glass/windows between a pair of speakers hurts my soul.
Would you feel better to know that's a sunroom where my wife allows me to take pictures. :thumb: Below is a listening room.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=67571)
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Thank goodness! :thumb:
Got photos of the listening room?
Now that you mention it, I now wish I had a sun-room to photograph stuff. It would be so much easier then my fluorescent light mess I use. :)