Shadorne: You're right, I'd have to step up to the IB2i to get the better PMC mid driver. It's one of the reasons I'm not sure about the EB1i. But given the deal I've been offered, I'd end up spending more close to 3X as much to make that step. (I said I didn't want the deal to make the call, but I have to be somewhat realistic, haha.) I guess the question becomes, is the EB1i mid driver a deal breaker?
Cmalak: I definitely plan to listen to the 3.7, though my wife thinks they're odd looking.:) For driving them, I'd like to stay with the MC501 and C2300, at least for now. They reportedly have good synergy with both the Thiels and the PMCs. |
James63: I was going only on Thiel's published specs, not on reviews. I'm a fan of seal-enclosure bass and I like Thiel's system for integrating their subs, so I'd have flexibility if I need more bass. The EB1i goes to 19 Hz, however, so even if the 3.7 plays to 30, that's quite a difference. Yes, the room is big--even bigger than indicated because it's L-shaped with space off to one side--and it eats bass waves.
Re: Pioneer. I tracked down a local "consultant" dealer here in the SF Bay Area by calling Pioneer customer service. He has the S1-EX in one of his rooms but seems remarkably uninterested in making time for an audition appointment. Wants me to call back in the Spring.... says he's very busy. Good for him, in this economic climate! |
"They look pretty 'normal' with the grills on..."
I agree, which is why I only showed her a picture with the grills on! She said, at least they don't have an eyeball on top! I concluded that meant the KEF 207/2 was out of the question. But she's pretty cooperative--she does, after all, allow four systems in a seven-room house. What a woman! (But no bathroom systems yet!) I think she'd get used to the 3.7 in time. |
Petesm and Ryder: Thanks for your reflections. In the PMC line up, I'm starting to think the IB2i is the way to go if I can swing the price. I've never heard the Sophias buy I'll look into them. |
I haven't auditioned the EB1i yet. I might next week, but I might just pass it up. The IB2i midrange driver is what I'd want in the PMC brand, I can tell that already. |
I've lined up an in-home audition of the EB1i for a few days next week. It should give me a pretty good idea of the family sound and how it mates with my room and electronics.
Rhljazz: I'd like to hear the Crescendo. Might be hard to scare up an audition, though.
Yyz: Thanks for the dealer suggestion. Palo Alto is a drive from here but I am going to seek out the 3.7. It's received too many accolades to overlook in this price range.
Sashaw: I'm probably going to stick with passives. Did you own or listen much to the EB1i and/or the IB2i? If so, what are your impressions vis a vis each other and ATC passives? I'll see how the EB1i moves me but I might try to hold out until I can afford the IB21 and get the great PMC mid driver. Consensus seems to be it makes quite a difference in both warmth and transparency. |
Sashav: You have a wonderful breadth of experience with fine speakers. Thank you very much for the detailed descriptions; they're quite helpful. Like Ryder, I'm also interested in your thoughts comparing the Wilsons and Revels to the PMCs, especially the IB2S/IB2i. |
I've heard another person (an owner) that about the EB1i bass, too, in his modest-sized room. |
Sashav: I appreciate your elaboration. While something of a vicarious information sponge, I'm also an empiricist and, in the end, will be led by my ears. As I said, I should get the EB1i in-house next week. I've also been invited to pop down to San Diego for a day to audition the Acoustic Zen Crescendo at the factory with a local dealer-friend who's thinking about carrying it. I'll see if I can make the time. It's another interesting transmission line contender that has received excellent if limited press.
Mclsound: Thanks for the well-wishes and the tip on the "non-i" PMCs. You may be right: at the SPLs I generally use, the Vifa, which is supposedly modified substantially in-house, might be okay. I'll see.
Thanks again to all. I'll post my findings as I realize them.
Best,
Bill |
I auditioned the IB2i in my system for several days last week. Very impressive speakers, especially the midrange, which is perhaps the best I've heard. The mid driver's combination of clarity and warmth without coloration is truly excellent, and the main reason to own this speaker, IMO. Bass foundation and texture were also top-notch. I wasn't as impressed with the HF dispersion, as the soundstage seemed a little shortened. But overall the speaker is incredibly accurate and detailed without becoming sterile, and the drivers are very well-integrated. Ultimately, it might be a bit too analytical for my taste, in the sense that it is more oriented toward presenting everything in the grooves than the overall gestalt of the musical experience. But it is a very impressive speaker. I'll add that I thought it did not mate well with McIntosh MC501 amps, which made for a surprisingly boring sound. However, my pure class A Reference Line Silver Sig amp and Bent AVC passive preamp brought the sound very much to life. |
I've been able to keep the IB2i at home for another week and I'm starting to think this is the speaker for me. I'm just amazed at its honesty, composure, and dynamic ease and high and low volumes. Nothing hidden, nothing exaggerated, and absolutely no listener-fatigue during long sessions.
Now I'm thinking about it's slightly larger sibling, the MB2i. Would those who've heard the two please comment on their differences? I know the MB drops down 5 db lower to 20 Hz via that scary-looking bass driver with the exoskeleton. Anything else different in their tonal balances, presentation, or HF dispersion?
Bill |
The striking visual effect of the flat bass driver is certainly more to the liking of my wife. And the bass it produces through the ATL really fills my room, which isn't easily done; it's quick and tuneful and digs down. I've come to really like these speakers. In fact, I just ordered a pair in cherry to beat the price increase that goes into effect on Friday. I'm excited! Thanks to all for your help.
Bill |
