Some good questions:
ctviggen
Is the beveling on the bottom for any purpose? How about the shape (i.e., does it reduce internal standing waves or just look cool)? How does the no binding post work?
The Sason Ltds' shape contributes to the 3D imaging and disappearing act. A lot of work has gone into finding the best slant-back angle for proper time alignment between the drivers and ear. The bevels were inspired by the old (now discontinued) Artemis Eos monitor and the technology behind the F-117A Nighthawk stealth fighter/bomber. The bevels on the bottom are simply a design feature to balance the proportions a bit. They add interest and impart a more pleasing profile.
To add to what Marbles said, the typical Cardas arrangement uses the metal "locator" as the conductor. We modify the assembly so that the "locator" (ie, the spade post) is non-conducting. When one talks of a post as being great because it is "low mass" it means the conductor is minimal in size, which improves the electron flow over a "high mass" conductor that is not optimum for efficient electron flow. OURS IS BEST - Zero mass - no conductor between cable spades and crossover leads is present. This improves pace, rhythm, timing, and transparency.
jackman
Hi Marbles,
This is a good thread, I have a couple questions:
* "They need to be brought a good ways out into the room"
In my experience, most speakers sound better pulled out into the room (I use a combo of Audiophysic and Cardas positioning). Do these speakers require special placement?
* "They don't play the lowest octave"
Do any two way monitor speakers really play the lowest octave? In my experience, ones that claim to play low cannot do it at reference SPL levels. The little woofer is being asked to do too much.
* "Their price (as appossed to their value ) Not many people have over $5K to invest in speakers"
I haven't heard them so I can't comment on their value. $5K is a lot to spend on speakers but these are pretty unique. I guess it's all relative. Proac Response 2.5's retailed for $4500 ten years ago and the D25's are around $5500. These are in the same price range and are made of unique material (what is that granite?) so they are in the ballpark. The Proac site says the D25 can play to 20 hz. I'd have to see that (or hear it) in person because that's asking a lot of a small woofer.
The Sasons are very precise in their imaging and soundstaging and so they will drive you on to find their upmost best location in the room. Since the magic is already baked into them, they will sound incredible positioned as close as two-three feet from the back of the Sasons to the wall. Their addictive soundstaging and their open midrange will be maximized out in the room.
I agree with your assessment about some two-ways being overtaxed by trying to cover 25 Hz - ? crossover freq. I have consciously designed a two-way that represents the most bass, and no more, currently available in a small woofer that shines in the lowest distortion and transparency in the upper midrange. And it had to play bass loudly and very cleanly, which the Sasons do.
I remember when I dreamed of owning Spica TC-50's when the Quad 63's were just too far out of reach to lust after. I eventually owned and enjoyed the Spicas. I knew the Quads were still "the shit", but I was happy to own those TC-50's. If one is able to afford Peak Consult Incognitos, or Kharma Ceramique 3.2 Monitors, they will no doubt find the Ridge Street Sason Ltd a steal. If one is in the market for a $4k-$5k loudspeaker, they should include these on their list to audition. SAYS ME!
So, yes, price is relative!
Steve Rothermel
Ridge Street Audio Designs
