The A/V-Os and the X-Omnis seem like the same product...what are the differences?
Different drivers but the same configurations. One is sold as a kit. One is sold as a finished product.
Is one or the other better, or are they just different?
Both are very good. There is a slight edge to the A/V-O due to the higher quality crossover parts that come in the kit, but you will need to build your own boxes and assemble it all.
Also, how does the sound of these omnidirectional designs compare to open baffle designs like the X-Statiks?
They are more similar that you would think. Both are very transparent and have a non-boxed sound compared to typical speakers.
In application, the omni's need to be at least 3 feet or more from any wall. The open baffle designs must be at least 3 feet out from the rear wall but can be placed closer to the side walls.
Would the X-Statiks be better or just "different" than the A/V-Os or X-Omnis?
They are different in some ways but not drastically. Sensitivity is higher with the X-Statik. Power handling is higher too.
Kits like the A/V-O or our OB-5 and OB-7 models will get you further along the performance range dollar for dollar, but you will need to spend some of your time building them out. For some people that's the best part.
See this thread for instance:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=59326.0If you want a turn key solution though, the models at AV123 will not let you down. I seriously doubt anyone will find a speaker for under $1,000 that can compare to the performance of the X-Statik, let along beat it. There are no finished speakers in that price range that are that good.
