Zu Druid upgrade kit


Hello,

I have a pre 2008 Druid and am thinking about upgrading it with the Zu upgrade kit (now available upon request at approx. 650$)and wonder whether this is a sensible proposition. How does the upgrade model compare to the pre-08 version and would you recommend this route as a short-term upgrade or rather save for another model such as the Essence?

Thanks
Christian
gemini05
Christian,

I did both routes. The upgrade is definitely an improvement, it has been 2 years since I listended to mine, so my memory of the exact improvements is a little foggy. If memory serves me, I noticed the improvements in a more refined presentation with improved dynamics and low-level detail.

I since have upgraded to the Essence and couldn't be happier. The improvements in the level of bass depth over the Druid is immediately noticable. Overall it is a great speaker, and I enjoy it very much, especially considering the price point.

The Druids have a little more "punch" than the Essence, but both are very musical and enjoyable. If you really enjoy the Druids, the upgrade is a nice and easy improvement to be had. If you want something a little different, but still want the Zu sound, Essence all the way.
I am looking at the Essence(moving from Klipsch RF-7) i listen to lots of singer songwriter Dylan, David Gray, Damien Rice and classic rock Beatles, Floyd, etc. How would the Essence work with this type of music? I like the RF-7s but feel like they can sound somewhat hollow at times. The presentation is up front, which I like but I feel like i am missing some midrange tone.
They work well with all kinds of music. I too listen to singer song writer stuff, along with acoustic, and they sound great. They also sound great with hard rock and metal too.
Thank you, that has been very helpful. May I ask which amp you are running on the Essence (and have used on the Druid)?
I was using a Nuforce IA-7 integrated on both the Druid and the Essence. Now have swithced over to a Cayin A-50T tube amp with the Gold Lion KT-77 tubes. This amp is soooooo sweet with the Gold Lions. It can be found under 1K used here on Audiogon. Nice match with the Zu's.