2. speakers
  3. 1066460204

Gilmore Audio planars revealed

The Gilmore Audio speaker have finally been photographed for the world to see: Gilmore Audio

Disclaimer - I'm a dealer for the Gilmores, though at this point I'm still awaiting my first pair, as they haven't begun shipping yet.

The Gilmores push the edge of the envelope for planar technology in several areas. Innovations include an extremely thin (3 mil) Kapton diaphragm; bass extension to below 20 Hz; easy 8-ohm load combined with 92 dB efficiency (you can drive 'em with Atma-Sphere M-60's!); and maximum output level in the mid to upper 120's.

Designer Mark Gilmore is the webmaster of the Atma-Sphere Owner's Group website, as well as of the Sound Lab Owner's Group site. He's been around for a while, but this is his first commercial loudspeaker design (to the best of my knowledge).

I haven't heard 'em yet so can't comment on the sound (I know, that's all that really matters after all). I'm expecting a pair before the end of the year, and will post comments then.

Duke
audiokinesis

Showing 4 responses by dawgbyte

dawgbyte's avatar
dawgbyte
325 posts
 
I agree with Seadogs1. This is a classy and respectful site where we all share common ground with respect for our love of music and high-end audio reproduction. It's fine to inquire about new technology and ask probing questions about manufacturer's claims, but let's do it in a way that encourages people to share their ideas not inhibit them. The last thing we want or need is to roast people like they do on Audio Asylum.

Cheers,
DB
dawgbyte's avatar
dawgbyte
325 posts
 
Patrick, according to their web site the Model 2's introductory price (ready for sale on Jan. 2, '04) is set at $17,500 (for a limited time) and $19,500 thereafter. The Model 3 will be introduced in Feb. for $12,500 and then go to $14,500. They also give dimensions for both models.
dawgbyte's avatar
dawgbyte
325 posts
 
I may be in the minority on this one, but excluding the center channel my design training suggests to me that these speakers are aesthetically challenged. For almost $20K they could have spent a little more attention to designing a front plane with more visual interest and a stand with some flair. The existing stand looks like welded erector set parts. As it is now these speakers bear some resemblence to Martha's old kitchen counter top.

Ouch!
dawgbyte's avatar
dawgbyte
325 posts
 
FWIW Abraham Laboriel is the REAL DEAL! His work on Larry Carlton's "Fingerprints" is excellent. If you haven't heard that CD I highly recommend it.

These may be great speakers, but they have two huge strikes against them IMO.

#1. They are an aesthetic nightmare. The WAF will be 0% on these puppies, especially if they are going into a living room or den.

#2. Price! They are WAY TOO HIGH for just entering the market. If Gilmore was that smart he'd sell them for just over cost - gain acceptance and a following and then slowly increase the price. $19K for kitchen countertops with holes ain't going to cut it for anyone who cares about room decor.
More to discover