If I don't run a sub, then I'm sure the MTM would be clearly superior in a large room.
It does move more air but does not play down lower.
However, if I include cabinet costs, it'll cost me approx $250 more for the MTM.
The new MTM version will be $995. in kit form and the enclosures will be $225. each. These are real heavy built enclosures too.
$1,445. for the kit with enclosures while the Criterion is $1,249. for the kit with enclosures. That is only $196. more for the MTM version.
I'm wondering if I'd be better off with the MTM full range or spending the money on a sub and actively (which would cost more) crossing the original Criterion at 60hz?
Since they are both -3db down at 55Hz I would use both of them with a sub.
Is the MTM crossover essentially the same (other than compensating for the dual woofers and sensitivity issues) as the Criterion and do they measure approx the same?
The crossover is not at all the same.
The MTM version uses a parallel network and it utilizes a lower crossover point of 2.6kHz verses the Criterion crossing at 3.4kHz.
This allows the speed and detail level of the ribbon to shine a little more.
The lower crossover point does decrease power handling a little (with the ribbon) but with the sensitivity up 6db over the Criterion it doesn't take near as much to start hitting some higher SPL levels either.
The MTM version also has a ruler flat frequency response just like the Criterion. (about +/-1 to 1.2db)
Basically, I'm wondering if the MTM is improved in any way in the midrange and top end other than having more bass impact,
The upper midrange is a little improved by the lower crossover point and the fact that less cone movement is needed to reach the same SPL level. The detail in the highs (2.5kHz to 4kHz) is also slightly improved since the ribbon is now handling more in that area than before.
All in all the MTM version exceeds the Criterion in most areas with the possible drawback, for some, being the 4 ohm impedance.
Good questions.
The MTM version is completed and all is in stock and ready to ship.
I will try to get some info to the web site as soon as possible.
I already have Brian building a couple of pairs of these enclosures in Maple and look forward to getting you guys some pics of the finished product.
Due to the heavy weight of these I do not think I will send around demo pairs of them. Packaged like the others that are in circulation, (wood create and all) shipping weight on a completed pair would be about 110 to 115 lbs at least and maybe even more.