Coherence 2.4 review:
Let me begin by saying these speakers only have about 8 hours on them....but if my initial impressions hold, these are some wonderfully musical speakers. I've named them the Coherence 2.4 due to the seamless integration between the drivers (ala Rick's crossover design), a dual cabinet design, with four drivers total
BackgroundThis is my third speaker build with Rick, the other two have been established kits (the STS and Whomp). I wanted to give it a go one more time, however, this time I called Rick directly, told him I was currently using Martin Logan's, and, while I loved the "dissapearing act" they produced, I felt they missed the dynamics. I was very interested in designing a dual cabinet system..... I felt I could regain the dynamics I was missing and still have a very open and airy sound. Rick was an excellent source of knowledge, explaining how various drivers would integrate. We decided on Seas w22's in the "body" cabinet and an Accuton 5" midbass combined with Fountek ribbon in the "head" cabinet.
Associated EquipmentBryston 7b Monoblocks
Sony XA7Es CDP
Jeff Rowland Pre
Cabling - Nordost Blue Heaven and MIT Terminator 2's
Room Size & Speaker PlacementRoom Size - 24 X 15
Speaker Placement - 2 feet from front wall, 2 feet from side walls
Tube Traps in front wall corners
Initial ImpressionsFour words come to mind: CLARITY, FOCUS, DETAIL, DYNAMIC.
The ceramic Accuton mid is excellent, not at all dry or sterile. The speed and detail of the Accuton is an excellent match for the Fountek Ribbon. Rick's crossover design, which you'll have to contact him about if you have any questions (I know more about woodworking than electronics) is ultra smooth and reveals everything the music has to offer without imparting anything it shouldn't. As far as the tweeter, I was concerned about the Fountek, as there are many other Ribbon manufacturers out there, but I trusted Rick's ears....and they don't lie! The Fountek is terrific, and I'd use it again.
The Seas Excel W22's, produced wonderfully detailed, tight lows. Nothing even remotely boomy. I'm easily hearing sounds my Martin Logan's couldn't come close to touching. Even though these speakers weigh a ton, the sound that comes out makes them seem lighter than air. A clear, wide, and deep soundstage is easily percieved, and the tight, robust lows just push you deeper into the listening chair. I am very impressed.
If I could be overly critical, as I feel I should be, as I'm probably biased, the soundstage does tend to compress slightly, at very loud volumes. This could be a factor of my listening room or simply a result of the speakers not being broken in yet.....again, they only have about 8 hours on them. We'll just have to see. Again, this is only when I really open them up. I'm eager to hear if anyone has a comment on this.
In summary, this project has exceeded my expectations. I asked Rick for dynamics, warmth, detailed highs, and a speaker that would "dissappear". I feel like nicknaming Rick "The Postman", because he's super dependable and
always delivers!
Thanks again to Rick.....for all your efforts and answering my tireless questions.
Paul.
