AudioCircle

Industry Circles => Omega Speaker Systems => Topic started by: Louis O on 3 Mar 2017, 11:55 pm

Title: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: Louis O on 3 Mar 2017, 11:55 pm
Hi All,

I while back I finished my newest drivers called RS8. They are the latest 8" full range with a ferrite magnet. It's been a long time since the Super 8's, Maxhemp and Compact Hemp were discontinued. I worked on this driver for a while and now it's ready for production in 2 different floor-standing versions.

I have tried many configurations and like these 2 the best so far.
They both are single drivers and in a wide baffle style. I'm very happy with the cabinet styling and proportions.

They are both upright cabinets with no tilt.

The new RS8 is very similar to the RS5 in tone. The cone material is the same. They really sound like a large RS5. Great fast tight bass and very nice dynamics. They are an 8 Ohm driver and about 98dB in sensitivity.

The response is very linear and finally got rid of the 8KHz peak the old drivers had.

The Super 8 XRS in Zebrawood


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158614)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158615)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158616)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158618)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158617)

The dimensions are:
38" tall x 14" wide x 8.5" deep.


The Junior 8 XRS in Ebony

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158622)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158623)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158624)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158619)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158625)

The dimensions are:
35" tall x 12" wide x 7.5" deep.

The Omega RS8 Driver

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158626)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158627)

Thanks again,
Louis



Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: RDavidson on 4 Mar 2017, 12:50 am
Beautiful!
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: BearCityUSA on 4 Mar 2017, 12:21 pm
These are stunning,... And 98db sensitivity. Iguess they can really move some air. And now for the $64,000 question. List price? I hope not $64,000.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: roscoe65 on 4 Mar 2017, 02:47 pm
These are stunning,... And 98db sensitivity. Iguess they can really move some air. And now for the $64,000 question. List price? I hope not $64,000.

The Super 7XRS in real wood is $1,895 and the Super Alnico XRS is $3,295.  The $2,500 price point seems to be reasonable.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: mick wolfe on 4 Mar 2017, 04:37 pm
Oh no.....just when I thought I was done buying speakers.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: Louis O on 7 Mar 2017, 11:59 pm
Many thanks for the very kind posts. I have made many wide baffle speakers, but these are the best looking I think. I kind of made them less deep and this really worked visually. Also using the smaller spikes made a difference.

roscoe65 is really close with the pricing.
Looks like the Junior 8 XRS will start at $1795 in level 1 and the Super 8 XRS will be $2895 in woods only.

I want to share some pictures of RS8 standmounts. When I first got the drivers in I tried them in my current cabs I had on hand. This is well before I decided to go wide baffle floorstander with them.

CAM8 in Ebony

An RS8 in a CAM cabinet. I took the picture diagonally for some reason

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158837)

SAM8 in walnut on Skylan Stands

This one sounds great

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158838)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158839)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158845)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158840)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158841)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158842)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158843)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=158844)

Thanks,
Louis


Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: roscoe65 on 8 Mar 2017, 01:12 am
Looks great Louis!

The form factor looks like you may begin to compete with the Devore Orangutan 0/93 and Audio Note ANE.  The Super 8XRS really looks like it could go head to head against the Audio Note both in size and claimed efficiency.

I personally like the SAM8 (shouldn't that be the "SFM8"?) proportions, but they are the same as my SAM's so I may be biased.  I would imagine them to sound really great and it looks like you've made the port larger.  However, spending another $420 on the Skylan stands would be a deal killer for a lot of people.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: RDavidson on 8 Mar 2017, 01:38 am
It'd maybe be a deal breaker only if one feels that Skylans are a must. There are much less expensive options. In fact, one could get a lot of milage from much less expensive stands, maybe even DiY, and some Herbie's dots.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: roscoe65 on 8 Mar 2017, 01:45 am
You're absolutely correct.  The Skylans are a great sonic and visual match to the SAM's but are no means necessary.

I personally like the SAM form factor.  It is one of the reasons I chose it.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: RDavidson on 8 Mar 2017, 02:04 am
Agree too that Skylans compliment Omega monitors very nicely. :thumb:
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: danabunner on 8 Mar 2017, 05:48 am
What are the pros and cons of the 8" Alnico driver vs the 6" Alnico? 
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: roscoe65 on 8 Mar 2017, 12:12 pm
This new 8" is ferrite, not alnico.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: DaveC113 on 8 Mar 2017, 03:48 pm
Looks great!

I heard the prototypes a while ago and agree they do sound like big RS5s, they're really nice. Fast and well-defined bass for sure.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: pursuitofnow on 8 Mar 2017, 04:23 pm
How would the Super 8 XRS compare to the Super 3 High Output XRS? Seems to be roughly the same cone surface area?
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: roscoe65 on 8 Mar 2017, 04:25 pm
The Super 8 XRS has 60% more cone area than the Super 3 HO.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: mick wolfe on 8 Mar 2017, 04:48 pm
Yep....if you measure the RS5 at an even 4" diameter,  it would require 4- RS5's to equal the radiating area of a single RS8......provided the RS8 measures 8" in diameter.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: pursuitofnow on 8 Mar 2017, 05:17 pm
Oh, ok I see. I was simply adding 4+4=8, but I guess it isn't that simple :(

How about the sonic differences between the two? What are the trade offs?
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: roscoe65 on 8 Mar 2017, 05:34 pm
I believe the RS5 is about 4.5" in diameter, which would give a nominal cone area of 10.13 in2.  Assuming the RS8 has an 8" diameter, it's cone area would be 16 in2, about 60% greater than two RS5's.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: danabunner on 8 Mar 2017, 07:10 pm
Surface area of a 4.5" cone would be  2.25" squared times pi = 15.9 sq in.

For an 8" cone it would (4*4) X 3.1416 = 50.26 sq in.

Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: roscoe65 on 8 Mar 2017, 08:16 pm
We were talking about the area of two RS5 drivers relative to an 8" driver.  I had left out Pi as a factor.  The ratio is the same but the area is Pi x.

Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: mick wolfe on 8 Mar 2017, 09:04 pm
I believe the RS5 is about 4.5" in diameter, which would give a nominal cone area of 10.13 in2.  Assuming the RS8 has an 8" diameter, it's cone area would be 16 in2, about 60% greater than two RS5's.

My RS5 drivers measure  4".  Now that's the actual cone itself and not any part of the frame.  If the RS5 cone was 4.5" in diameter, I would agree. Mine aren't.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: roscoe65 on 8 Mar 2017, 09:28 pm
True.  But the 8" driver might not be 8" either.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: mick wolfe on 8 Mar 2017, 11:28 pm
 I think you're probably correct or at least more correct with your 60% figure. The diameter of the RS5 measured across edge to edge is 4" flat.  That's fine, but the driver itself isn't a flat circle. I'm then assuming the stated 4.5 " driver size is determined based on the slope distance from edge of cone to the center of driver. ( measured on the real face of the driver itself) So that distance could very believeably be 2.25".  Now if  this paper thin theory is  somehow correct, the slope distance of the 8" driver edge of cone to driver center would simply be 4". The 2 radii are now 2.25" and 4".  That would equate to 3.16-RS5 drivers = 1-RS8 driver. I concede, but more importantly, time for a beer.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: roscoe65 on 8 Mar 2017, 11:57 pm
None of that really means anything really.  If size=sound we would all be listening to 30" Fostex woofers.

It does give some indication of the amount of air it can move.  As good as a single RS5 driver is it simply cannot produce the amount of bass a larger driver can in a reflex enclosure.  A four inch driver can only do so much.

I do find the RS8 driver intriguing, particularly the whizzer cone.  The whizzer on the RS7 and Alnico driver is smaller and sits higher away from the main cone.  In contrast, the RS8 whizzer appears to be about the same size as a RS5 cone (although not as shallow) and sits much closer to the main cone.  This may contribute to its sonic resemblance to the RS5.  Being close to the main cone cold ameliorate some artifacts some people have encountered with whizzer cones due to the interaction of sound waves in the space between the two cones.  A common "fix" has been to put a lightweight foam ring behind the whizzer to dampen this interaction.

That being said, there is a tradition of legendary small cone, whizzerless full range drivers.  The Fostex drivers previously used in Omega speakers fall into this category as do a number of great but cheap-looking Japanese wide range drivers.  Before the RS5 my favorite were a pair of 5" Diatone (Mitsubishi) PM610A Alnico speakers.  They behaved very much like a smaller version of an Altec 755A.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: tdogzthmn on 14 Mar 2017, 04:06 am
These new RS8 speakers look mighty fine.

I'm hoping they can provide enough body that a sub is not necessary.  My current speakers are Vandersteen 1C's which have a listed frequency response of 38Hz to 22,500Hz.  In practice I find their bass to sufficient for most music in my current listening environment.  The Junior 8XRS is also listed as acheiving an similar frequency response. 

I listen to a lot of 60s-70s rock on vinyl and like the pulsing drive of the distorted guitars.  Would the RS8 be up to the task of fleshing out some classic rock?
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: pursuitofnow on 14 Mar 2017, 09:00 pm
will we see a HO (dual RS8) in the future?
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: saygrr on 15 Mar 2017, 11:59 pm
What is the function of a whizzer cone?

I am also wondering if Louis will be offering this in a HO model.

I live in Wi. and would like to hear Omega speakers. Hopefully I will get to hear Omega  at Axpona one of these years.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: opnly bafld on 16 Mar 2017, 12:03 am
Whizzer extends high frequencies.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: roscoe65 on 16 Mar 2017, 12:36 am
While I'm sure a 1.5 way could work, we may find it to be at the point of diminishing returns.  The second RS5 driver is brought in at 500hz and the second Alnico driver is brought in at 200hz.  I can see the RS8 driver coming in even lower, say 120hz or below.  Remember that we are simply trying to bring up the bass region to match the midrange.  Unless the RS8 has a significantly rising response, I wouldn't expect a 1.5 way to offer the same benefits as it does with the smaller drivers.  I would however expect this speaker to work really well with the Deepomega8.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: stellablues on 16 Mar 2017, 05:01 am
I'm looking for recommendations for my first Omega speaker. This one looks like the sweet spot in the full range options from Omega. I have not ever heard any omega speakers and never a full range speaker in a private setting.


I listen to modern jazz trios, acoustic music of all kind, ambient electronic music mostly in the evening ... my room is about 20x13x8 but not dedicated.  I have a Decware Mystery amp pushing 83db two way speakers and I just always feel like i am missing some life in my speakers. I upgraded the xovers with great expense but the magic still really didn't come.

suggestions?
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: jorgen on 16 Mar 2017, 10:36 am
With that HQ amp you have so many options. I personally would recommend to go for the Alnico based speakers, but really that is not the only option and probably much based upon personal  taste.  All of them are good. Focus on what would suit your room. I'm using the HO Alnico speakers in a smaller cabinet than the Omega top line speakers and they sound really good. However some users find the smaller 4,5" driver to be even faster and very very good as well. Steve at Decware and Louis offer a HO version through the Decware website and that should be a great testimony for a very good match between Decware and Omega.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: nature boy on 16 Mar 2017, 12:05 pm
These new RS8 speakers look mighty fine.

I'm hoping they can provide enough body that a sub is not necessary.  My current speakers are Vandersteen 1C's which have a listed frequency response of 38Hz to 22,500Hz.  In practice I find their bass to sufficient for most music in my current listening environment.  The Junior 8XRS is also listed as achieving an similar frequency response. 

I listen to a lot of 60s-70s rock on vinyl and like the pulsing drive of the distorted guitars.  Would the RS8 be up to the task of fleshing out some classic rock?

I went from Vandersteen 2CE Signatures to an older version of Omega speakers with an 8" alnico driver, never looked back.  I recently purchased a pair of floor standing Super Alnico High Output XRS speakers (dual 6" drivers).  While I enjoy both Omega speakers immensely, the High Output speakers are faster, resolve complex music much better and have noticeably better (more truthful to my ears) bass response.  I have a Decware Mystery Amp and CSP3 preamp arriving tomorrow, so I'll be able to share insights on the Mystery Amp - Decware SAHO speaker combination in a week or so. 

FWIW, I suggest you give Louis a call at Omega.  He can give you his candid opinion based on your listening room, equipment, and musical preferences. Keep in mind the smaller drivers are faster and HO models to a better job resolving complex music.  You'll love the Omega's on stringed instruments, they are just incredibly realistic.

NB
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: saygrr on 16 Mar 2017, 01:32 pm
Thanks for your post NB. That is quite the complement going from the 2CE Signature to the  older version 8 inch Omega and not looking back. Gives readers like me an idea how Omega speakers compete against the more well known speakers. If we lived closer to each other I would make the effort to have a listen to your system.

I noticed this morning the Seper 8 XRS and Junior 8 XRS are on the Omega web sight.

If I should make a speaker change the Super Alnico HO Monitor is a speaker that would be considered.

The Super 3 HO XRS I just like the looks of it. I like the narrow front. If Louis made a line array with those drivers maybe  4 drivers I wonder  if it would deliver the scale of large symphonic music with a pair of subs?

Omega has a nice interesting line of speakers. Might fly to Connecticut some day to listen.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: tdogzthmn on 4 Apr 2017, 06:42 pm
I ended up ordering the Junior 8XRS speakers which will be a better fit for my room.

Does anyone know the material used for the RS8 drivers?  I know they have some proprietary fiber blend used but I'm curious what that consists up and what impact it has on the lightness and stiffness.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: tdogzthmn on 15 Apr 2017, 07:48 pm
Maybe these drivers are too new to have impressions from customers.  Hopefully mine will be ready early next month and I'll be able to give them some time to break in.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: DaveC113 on 16 Apr 2017, 02:59 pm
RS8 are a fiber cone, I don't know more than that. They sound amazing though, similar to the RS5 with better bass/impact. I'm sure you'll be happy.  :)
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: restrav on 16 Apr 2017, 05:15 pm
....
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: mrvco on 16 Apr 2017, 11:34 pm
Does anyone have any idea how the Super 8's compare to the Super 7's yet?
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: Canada Rob on 17 Apr 2017, 03:48 pm
is it possible to update the old compact hemps with the new RS8 drivers?

If your drivers have the six screw pattern, the new RS8 should drop right in, as he is using the same basket.  Possibly the bass port may need tuning by shortening it or getting a longer one.  Louis would know best about cabinet tuning with the new driver.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: roscoe65 on 17 Apr 2017, 04:06 pm
If your drivers have the six screw pattern, the new RS8 should drop right in, as he is using the same basket.  Possibly the bass port may need tuning by shortening it or getting a longer one.  Louis would know best about cabinet tuning with the new driver.

This system is just begging for a driver upgrade:  https://www.audiogon.com/listings/full-range-omega-speaker-systems-compact-hemp-deep-hemp-system-superb-single-driver-pair-w-subs-2017-04-14-speakers-29464-mount-pleasant-sc--3?refsource=hifishark

If the RS8 driver upgrade is anything like the RS5 upgrade this could be an absolute killer system for ~$2k.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: mrvco on 17 Apr 2017, 08:26 pm
Those Omegas have been re-listed at least once now.  I am surprised they haven't sold, but the pictures could be better and I'm sure "Local Pick-up Only" in South Carolina limits the number of potential buyers.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: roscoe65 on 17 Apr 2017, 11:30 pm
"Local pickup" is a death sentence for many sales.  It is pretty easy (and not that expensive) to ship equipment these days.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: opnly bafld on 17 Apr 2017, 11:31 pm
He had them listed before with shipping.  :scratch:
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: pstrisik on 18 Apr 2017, 12:01 am
"Local pickup" is a death sentence for many sales.  It is pretty easy (and not that expensive) to ship equipment these days.

Not so much with marble slabs.  It's what I have (on top) and they are very heavy.


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=136078)


..........Peter
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: mrvco on 10 May 2017, 08:23 pm
Has anyone here bought a set of Super 8's yet?  I'm curious how they compare to the Super 7's and the similarly priced SAM (or the now defunct Super Alnico Tower).  I still absolutely love my Super 7's, but it's hard not to think about the future :xmas:
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: drhoon on 11 May 2017, 01:09 am
also interested in ferrite vs hemp ( RS8 vs Alnico 6") drivers. What are the strength of different material?
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: pursuitofnow on 11 May 2017, 01:22 am
drhoon, ferrite is the magnet type, and hemp is used for cone material.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: restrav on 14 May 2017, 06:51 pm
...
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: pstrisik on 15 May 2017, 05:44 pm
Hi

I have a question about your omega speakers and I was hoping that you'd be kind enough to write back to let me know

1 - what are the driver's exactly in your speakers?

2 - how doues the bass compare with multiway floor standers? (like floorstanders from VSA, Usher or any other brand you know)

3 - what kind of music are the best and worst suited for?


Im a single river person but im really considering subs or bigger floorstanders thats why im asking. I also asked the price because I want to know what kind of value per dollar they offer. thanks again.

The drivers in the monitors are Louis' 6" alnicos as they are Super Alnico Monitors ($2000 - $2300 depending on veneer).  The drivers in the powered woofers are Rythmik HS800 8" servo drivers with Rythmik plate amp.  Brian sells these as kits for powered mid-bass modules.  It is this:  http://rythmikaudio.com/DS800ci.html (http://rythmikaudio.com/DS800ci.html) (the CI kit M7: one HX300 drives one DS800-3).  About $750 for two kits with the multiple unit discount.  You would have to build, or have Louis build as I did, enclosures for the woofers.  So add the price for the enclosures.

IMO, this configuration (without subs) outshines many, if not most, multi-way towers in the bass department.  You can set these plate amps to extend down to either 50Hz (typically when you are using subs) or 30Hz (with or without subs).  Set at 30Hz, the bass is excellent.  You have 350W amps with torroidal based power supplies for the woofers.  If you use an external active xover, you can make for a very smooth transition at the xover point and lessen the load both on your low wattage main amp and the monitors themselves improving the mid-high performance.

Unless you like to crank thinks up beyond 100db, these handle whatever you throw at them.  From jazz to classical.  Bass heavy is fine.  Though heavy bass for me would mostly be in reggae and R&B - not so much hip-hop or heavy metal, though they might do fine there as well.  I just don't play it.

.......Peter
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: restrav on 15 May 2017, 06:27 pm
thank you so much. Exactrly what I needed to know. what is your favorite amp to match with them?
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: pstrisik on 15 May 2017, 07:32 pm
Low wattage single ended Class A tube or Class A solid state.  I use a tube preamp, the Dennis Had Inspire LP-2.  For tube amp, his single ended pentode running EL-34 output tubes at about 10wpc (see my avatar).  For solid state, I have a DIY pair of Nelson Pass designed 8 watt monoblocs.  It is his Amp Camp Amplifier kit upgraded with a linear, torroid, 24vdc power supply.  Surprisingly great given it's simplicity.  Here's a post with those amps:  http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=94374.msg1599611#msg1599611.

..........Peter
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: restrav on 15 May 2017, 08:12 pm
I am familiar with ACA. thanks for sharing. sounds like a lot of effort has gone into this system. thanks again.I have a nuprime IDA-8 and im gonna add a  low watt tube. but probaby a Kt88 design.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: pstrisik on 15 May 2017, 09:08 pm
If you are interested in his work, he makes a variety of designs including a KT-88.  I think he also has a parallel single-ended KT-88 (two output tubes per channel) design that puts out somewhere around 20wpc.  There's lots at https://www.audioaficionado.org/showthread.php?t=24170.  Overwhelming thread that I started a couple of years ago, but you can see the enthusiasm and overwhelmingly positive reviews.  There are a few posting in recent months that have the PSE design.

.......Peter
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: restrav on 15 May 2017, 09:30 pm
....
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: pstrisik on 15 May 2017, 11:37 pm
The new RS8 is a ferrite based driver.  It would still be a worthy upgrade to the older hemp driver I'm sure.  Some others here may have direct experience with it or both.

Contact Dennis Had directly and he would likely build something for you.  That way you have more input into the design - within limits anyway.  He developed something on the power supply side about six months ago.  Search for IIPS or Infinite Impedance Power Supply (he now seems to call it Infinite Regulator Power Supply) in that thread I linked earlier.  If you buy used, you won't get this if built before this year and it is something like a $300 upgrade.  This includes upgraded caps that he now uses.  The improvement with this upgrade was not subtle.

All of his SEP designs will run a wide range of tubes including KT-88.  This listing is the same as mine before I had the upgrade:
http://www.audioasylumtrader.com/ca/listing/Amplifier-Tube/Inspire/Fire-Bottle/Single-Ended-KT150/166439

It has been listed for a couple of months since he is asking too much for it.  I think that amp was about $1500 new.  Here's an example of a more recent KT-88 model - sold for $1395 new:  http://www.ebay.com/itm/STEREO-TUBE-AMPLIFIER-INSPIRE-by-DENNIS-HAD-KT88-TUBE-SINGLE-ENDED-AMPLIFIER-/152457176853?hash=item237f27e715:g:7~kAAOSwIgNXokNy.  It does have the new power supply mod.  You can message him on ebay through that listing if you want to get in touch with him. 


........Peter
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: restrav on 15 May 2017, 11:51 pm
....
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: pstrisik on 16 May 2017, 02:06 am
looking at the pictures in the link from audiuogon that i have posted above, could anyone please identify the driver?

Dadbeh, it looks like the photos are gone.  Maybe they stop displaying after sold?  You may need to post your own photos.  Always fun to see setups anyway!   :wink:

Curiosity, were you close enough to pick them up, did he ship the granite, or did you go without it?

......Peter
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: restrav on 16 May 2017, 02:13 am
....

Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: roscoe65 on 16 May 2017, 02:37 am
That looks like the old 8" hempcone driver.  You would ask louis if he can retrofit the new RS8 driver into the cabinet.  It may take a port modification, but maybe not.  I upgraded drivers to the RS5 and it is a massive upgrade.

Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: pstrisik on 16 May 2017, 03:07 pm
Wow, I bet shipping was quite a bit.  Still cheaper than having new granite cut.  Two pieces like that would run in the hundreds.

.......Peter
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: restrav on 16 May 2017, 03:38 pm
....
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: roscoe65 on 16 May 2017, 03:50 pm
You should get a quote from him.  My experience has been that the newer drivers are a significant improvement over the older ones. 
The Junior 8 XRS is $2k in real wood, so that is your benchmark.  If your current cost basis + the upgrade cost is < $2k you have a viable upgrade path.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: sunnydaze on 16 May 2017, 04:16 pm
You should get a quote from him.  My experience has been that the newer drivers are a significant improvement over the older ones. 
The Junior 8 XRS is $2k in real wood, so that is your benchmark.  If your current cost basis + the upgrade cost is < $2k you have a viable upgrade path.

Doesn't seem apples-to-apples to me....

What he bought includes 2 subs, while the Junior 8 XRS does not.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: roscoe65 on 17 May 2017, 03:24 am
Doesn't seem apples-to-apples to me....

What he bought includes 2 subs, while the Junior 8 XRS does not.

My implication is that he could retrofit the main modules for less than replacing the main modules with a pair of Junior 8's.  His Compact 8's are the same size as the SAM, and louis has already said it would work in that volume.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: McNubbins on 17 May 2017, 01:44 pm
Doesn't seem apples-to-apples to me....

What he bought includes 2 subs, while the Junior 8 XRS does not.
I don't have a dog in this fight, and I have had bad luck in the past starting arguments with people across the Internet. But here I go:

Dadbeh already has the subs. Even though I don't know the guy, I think we can be pretty sure he's not throwing them away. So his upgraded system, whether with his current cabs and new RS8 drivers or a completely new set of Junior 8 XRS, will have subs.

If you compare the price of these two upgrade options to get a new 8" driver in his listening room, it is an apples to apples comparison.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: sunnydaze on 17 May 2017, 02:05 pm
I don't have a dog in this fight, and I have had bad luck in the past starting arguments with people across the Internet. But here I go:

Dadbeh already has the subs. Even though I don't know the guy, I think we can be pretty sure he's not throwing them away. So his upgraded system, whether with his current cabs and new RS8 drivers or a completely new set of Junior 8 XRS, will have subs.

If you compare the price of these two upgrade options to get a new 8" driver in his listening room, it is an apples to apples comparison.

I don't follow your logic at all.   But that's OK, not enough coffee yet.     8)

Let me clarify my point:

(1)  Dadbeh bought a set of monitors with older driver + sub pair for about $1500   (assumed based on seller's most recent AG ad).  He did not have the subs before the purchase,  he got them with the purchase.

(2)  a new pair of Junior 8 XRS costs about $2000

I could have mis-read Roscoe65, but I thought he was saying that if buyer could get his drivers upgraded for up to $500, he will have what is essentially the current Junior 8 XRS -- pricewise and soundwise.   

My point was that he will have much more than that since his purchase includes a pair of subs, while the Junior 8 XRS do not.

PS:  Just discussing audio, not "arguing".    :thumb:
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: mrvco on 17 May 2017, 02:40 pm
I don't follow your logic at all.   But that's OK, not enough coffee yet.     8)

Let me clarify my point:

(1)  Dadbeh bought a set of monitors with older driver + sub pair for about $1500   (assumed based on seller's most recent AG ad).  He did not have the subs before the purchase,  he got them with the purchase.

(2)  a new pair of Junior 8 XRS costs about $2000

I could have mis-read Roscoe65, but I thought he was saying that if buyer could get his drivers upgraded for up to $500, he will have what is essentially the current Junior 8 XRS -- pricewise and soundwise.   

My point was that he will have much more than that since his purchase includes a pair of subs, while the Junior 8 XRS do not.

PS:  Just discussing audio, not "arguing".    :thumb:

Yep, plus the stack saves quite a bit of floor space versus adding standalone sub(s).
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: restrav on 17 May 2017, 02:44 pm
This is a very constructive and helpful" discussion" not argument.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: restrav on 17 May 2017, 03:08 pm
subwoofers were a big incentive but I bought it for the well known coherent omega sound specifically for its beautiful midrange
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: sunnydaze on 17 May 2017, 03:56 pm
subwoofers were a big incentive but I bought it for the well known coherent omega sound specifically for its beautiful midrange

IMO, you did well. This past summer I bought a used pair of Super 7 XRS mk2 and a pair of close-out Gallo subs for a total cost greater than yours.

And my situation is more cluttered, uses more floor space, and of course my subs are not specifically made to perfectly mesh with the mains.

Enjoy the speakers!    :thumb:
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: McNubbins on 17 May 2017, 04:01 pm
I don't follow your logic at all.   But that's OK, not enough coffee yet.     8)

Let me clarify my point:

(1)  Dadbeh bought a set of monitors with older driver + sub pair for about $1500   (assumed based on seller's most recent AG ad).  He did not have the subs before the purchase,  he got them with the purchase.

(2)  a new pair of Junior 8 XRS costs about $2000

I could have mis-read Roscoe65, but I thought he was saying that if buyer could get his drivers upgraded for up to $500, he will have what is essentially the current Junior 8 XRS -- pricewise and soundwise.   

My point was that he will have much more than that since his purchase includes a pair of subs, while the Junior 8 XRS do not.

PS:  Just discussing audio, not "arguing".    :thumb:
I understand what has happened so far. My logic is that he has the subs now. So why is he looking for a floorstander that'll cost more and prevent him from running his awesome sub-under-monitor setup? If he buys the floorstander there is a pair of monitors that go unused or now need to be sold.

My implication is that he could retrofit the main modules for less than replacing the main modules with a pair of Junior 8's.  His Compact 8's are the same size as the SAM, and louis has already said it would work in that volume.
Thank goodness for people more articulate than me.

This is a very constructive and helpful" discussion" not argument.
I'm glad to hear that is the prevailing sentiment in spite of my contributions.

Now I'll get back to enjoying my (lowly, bottom of the floorstanding range) 3XRS.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: sunnydaze on 17 May 2017, 04:07 pm
Not lowly at all.  A local buddy has them and they sound excellent!  (but IMO, require a sub.....as do my Super 7s.....but that's just me coming from a long history of big floorstanders.  YMMV)     :thumb:
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: mrvco on 17 May 2017, 04:10 pm
He bought the Omega speaker + sub combo that were for sale in the Audiogon link.  I don't see any reference to pre-existing speakers and/or subs.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: restrav on 17 May 2017, 04:34 pm
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Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: restrav on 17 May 2017, 04:40 pm
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Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: restrav on 17 May 2017, 04:55 pm
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Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: pstrisik on 17 May 2017, 05:25 pm
Way too complicated upgrade evaluation.  IMO, find out how much the upgrade costs, assess as best you can the likely improvement.  Is the cost worth it to you?  Done.

BTW, I love watching taylor swift videos........

.


.


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with the sound off! 

ba boom!    :P

Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: McNubbins on 17 May 2017, 05:30 pm
Not lowly at all.  A local buddy has them and they sound excellent!  (but IMO, require a sub.....as do my Super 7s.....but that's just me coming from a long history of big floorstanders.  YMMV)     :thumb:
Aside from a little self-deprecation, I said that because I want people to actually buy these sweet looking new RS8-based speakers. I don't want to see a nice guy like Louis go out of business because he's only selling to cheapos like me. More than $1095 (which is what my 3XRS cost) is already a tough sell to some people, even if we here know it's a huge bargain.

My friends are mostly normal people (well, at least when it comes to their audio preferences) and not one of them has been able to say my little speakers weren't the best they've ever heard--in every area except bass weight and slam. One day I'd like to try a sub, preferably when my floor isn't also someone else's ceiling.

That's why, having never heard one, I believe the RS8 does have a little more to offer than the RS5 in the form of more mid-bass. I'd like to hear from somebody who knows more about speaker driver design than I do (it wouldn't take much) to tell us how an eight-incher like the RS8 can compare to the RS5 in the "electrostatic speed" aspect--magnet power vs. cone weight and all that.

They are setup now, taylor swift sounds amazing!
I am running them by Nuprime IDA-8 for now.
gonna get a tube integrated soon
I'm using a little gainclone-clone integrated that came from China. It impresses me every day what Omegas can do with so little, whether I'm watching TV or really sitting down in front of them and listening to some good music.

Rock on, everyone.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: restrav on 17 May 2017, 09:36 pm
I gotta say 3 XRS with grill on is one the most gorgeous speakers ive ever seen. 
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: restrav on 17 May 2017, 09:49 pm
...
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: sunnydaze on 17 May 2017, 10:52 pm

PS: The blue tack is a bad idea, it has left permanent marks on top of the subs :(

Not horrible...you will never see that part of the finish.

Instead of Blu Tak, maybe look into some Herbies products?
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: roscoe65 on 17 May 2017, 11:21 pm
I use Herbie's Fat Dots and love them.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: seikosha on 17 May 2017, 11:34 pm
Thanks for sharing your impressions Dadbeh.  I've had at least half a dozen different (non Omega) single driver designs, and to this day Omegas are still my favorites.
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: mrvco on 22 Jul 2018, 03:16 pm
Has anyone been able to compare the Super 7 XRS mkii with the Super 8 XRS?
Title: Re: The new RS8 based speakers
Post by: mrvco on 28 Jul 2018, 01:44 am
Or maybe how does the RS8 differ from the RS7?  Is the RS8 more similar to the RS5 than the RS7 somehow?