[JLM]

http://www.tbisound.com/index.asp

"Back" as in 6moons had reported serious differences between the principals and designer that had put the whole company into a freeze.

First, they have what appears to be the same amps and amazingly small/fast subs that 6moons had favorably reviewed a couple of years ago.

But now they're also offering a very small (roughly 5 inches on a side, 2 pounds) "Diamond I" monitor that uses a single 3 inch drive ,       70-20,000 Hz, 87 dB/w/m @ 8 ohms.  Prices start at $350/pair.  As they state, the advantages of small, single driver speakers are undeniable (as are some of the challenges, which this design is supposed to have addressed).  If this product is as, dare I say revolutionary, it should be very good indeed.  And they also hint at a "Diamond II".

Can't wait for someone to review or at least provide their impressions of these monitors.

[fu_man]

didn't  6 moons  review  them recently - with a  fairly  controversial/contested  result?

[srb]

70-20,000 Hz, 87 dB/w/m @ 8 ohms.

Frequency response is most usually quoted at -3db.  Their 70Hz -20KHz spec is quoted at -6dB.

Their description says "designing a miniature speaker to respond to below 50 Hz was our primary goal".

50Hz at what?  -12dB?  -18dB?

For that specification "fluff factor" alone, I am kind of turned off by their presentation.  But who knows?  If anyone wants to buy a pair and post a review, I'm sure it would be interesting reading!

[JLM]

A second look at the TBI site revealed a couple of linked reviews of the Diamonds.

Yes, the first 6moons review was very luke warm, but the follow-up was much better.  An independent review was also favorable.

Yes, these are odd little ducks, refering to the "Embedded Transmission Line" technology and and mystery associated with the actual bass roll-off (frequency and slope).  (BTW I'm a transmission line fan from way back.)  My pudgy little HT system needs rear and center channel speakers.  These little guys may fit the bill just right:  not too big (to look silly hanging from the wall); not too small (poor performing); and just right to fit into the rack under the TV (or on a stand in front).  Just need to scrape together the cash (the big system needs a pre-amp and the HT system needs a 5.1 receiver first).

[RichardS]

Haven't heard the monitors, but I' used their Magellan VIII subs and they're really good. Used a pair in my main system and they were extended, clean and tight--small and reasonably inobtrusive. Ultimately replaced by RBH subs and DIY Linkwitz Phoenix double stacks for more air movement, but if looks and space had been an issue I would have been quite happy with them. I still use a single Magellan in another room, placed under my rack (and I've also used it under a piece of furniture and almost out of sight). Neat technology for the WAF-challenged.