Recently at the Rocky Mountain Audio Fest, we demo-ed the A/V-1's using a pair of 120 watt Dodd Audio tube amps.
Our new 12" sub covered the first octave duty.
On numerous times we aired out the big amps on them with high volume loads playing Dire Straights, Metallica, AC/DC, and even some old Accept.
I'd have to say that they breezed right through it. Without the sub though they would have left me wanting for more impact though.
The only area effected by higher distortion levels when driven hard is the 200Hz and down region. This is due to the small paper cone woofer having to work at its limits.
This will be typical with any small woofer.
I'm particularly concerned about ringing, sibilance, or frequency peaks
None of that occurs.
Nothing is more dissapointing for me than turning up the volume only to cringe as the sound turns harsh.
That will never happen with these speakers.
From what you are telling me though I would recommend spending an additional $100. and getting the A/V-3 kit.
It will give you more output with less input (91db for the A/V-3 as apposed to 86db with the A/V-1's).
This will allow your amp or receiver more headroom as you will not have to push it near as hard to get the needed output levels.
The bottom end extends to a -3db of 40Hz as well.
Plus the transmission line loading will allow you to take greater advantage of the surface area of the dual woofer design (more impact).
