So……I have about 75 hours logged with the X4’s at this time and there have been definite changes. Before I go into my impressions, I’ll list my gear for reference:
Speakers: Spatial X4’s (of course), Manger Z1
Source: Aurender N200 music server/streamer, Gato CDD-1 CD player/DAC
DAC: Merason DAC1
Amplification: Linear tube Audio Z40+ integrated, Circle labs A200 integrated
Cables: Belden Iconoclast SPTPC speaker, Belden Iconoclast 4x4 Gen 2 ultra pure Ohno ccc, Belden BAV power cords (10 gauge and 14 gauge, Anti-cable usb level 3.3
Power conditioner:Puritan Audio labs PSM 156
My room dimensions are approximately 12’ x 28’ with 8’ ceilings that have slanted side walls as my room is a loft. The X4’s are 31” from the side walls and 7’ from the front wall. They are placed 91” from tweeter to tweeter and 91” from the listening chair. It took some minor tweaking each day to find the right placement, but once you get it right, you’ll know.
The first thing I can confirm is that the X4’s do need at least 50 hours of playtime to start coming into their own. Before that, there are ups and downs with bass, soundstage, tone, midrange and treble. Once I hit 50 hours, much of this evened out and I was able to listen critically. As others have said, I’m really looking forward to the next 50+ hours and expect things to improve even more.
What I’m hearing at about 75 hours is a tight and tuneful bass. It’s not overwhelming, but on certain songs that have strong bass, you can definitely hear and feel it. I would also agree with others that it may not be as impactful as some box speakers, but I actually prefer it as it seems more realistic to my ears.
Soundstage is one of the many strengths of this speaker. Once they had some time on them, I noticed the soundstage gradually going from just inside the speakers to about 2 feet outside the speakers. I’m sure if my room was wider, it would be even more pronounced outside of that. The presentation is relatively neutral, meaning it’s not forward or recessed. The music is coming from between the speakers which I prefer, but the music has a relaxed feeling to it with a natural and lifelike sound. I also notice the music just seems to float above the speakers.
It took a little getting used to the tone, but once my ears adjusted, it is all making sense now. The tone is spot on and I don’t have to adjust to it while listening which makes listening more like a live concert and more real to me.
I’ve heard some great midrange from speakers like Harbeth, QLN, Magnepan, Tannoy, etc. and the midrange with the X4’s is as good or better than each of those mentioned. The difference is a special magic that I’m hearing with both female and male voices. It’s the most lifelike that I’ve heard as they don’t add anything to voices.
All I can say about the treble is “wow”! Extended but not fatiguing and natural sounding. Dare I even say slightly on the warm side of neutral? Best treble I’ve heard south of $20k.
I was skeptical at first about diving into OB, but I’m so glad I did! I am thoroughly enjoying music now with the X4’s. No more analyzing but just enjoying.
