Professional Monitors

Bob,

I suspect the dip occurs at resonance of box and driver system (see the impedance curve). The port looks like it is tuned around 40 HZ (low impedance point) to get better bass extension - this will introduce phase delays around that frequency and affect the transient response.

You are right that a small speaker and a separate sub tends to get better results (like the NHT XD). There are also some monitors that are small without reflex ports that will sound more accurate in the bass and lower mid (but at a risk of sounding a bit bass shy). Alternatively a bigger box speaker is the way to go.

However, I felt that the JM Lab Chorus 706 distortion extended too far up into the lower mid range for comfort (but you can't be too picky with a $450 price tag which makes it a real bargain).

I just suggested to investigate the Solo6 based on its superficial similarity to the Chorus 706. The "pro" monikor and active design suggests it should be better...

Gb ksu,go to gearslutz.com and search for Solo6 or Twin6.The site is a forum for many recording and mastering studio engeneers.Many positive impressions on these monitors.Im trying to build 2ch. system around my Arcam C-30 preamp,which has balanced outputs.I have checked Event monitors ASP8 which are more of a midfield monitors, but the Solo6 have picked my interest.Good luck.

http://www.gearslutz.com/ Many positive impressions on Solo6 and Twin6 studio monitors.

I'm toying with the idea of using pro active monitors for a 7.1 HT. Have been surfing and in addition to the Solo6, the JBL LSR4326P has piqued my interest. Take a look at their site: http://www.jblpro.com/products/recording&broadcast/LSR4300/index.html

If you click through to the "spec sheet" for the lsr4326 you'll see that they provide alot more detail and measurements than does Focal. Among the comments on the site, "The exact geometry of the waveguide,
the interaction of the woofer and tweeter,
and the network are designed to provide an accurate
listening window of ± 30 degree horizontal,
± 15 degree vertical", and one of the lines on the FR graph is of the average across the listening window.

The reviews seem good. But there is less commentary on the LSR on gearslutz.com, and no direct A/B comparisons that I've seen.

I am months away from trying to audition anything (the room isn't even designed, much less built). I'll be interested to hear what you and others here have to say after hearing the Solo6 and the LSR. I understand that some pro dealers allow returns of equipment after a home trial. (For instance, mercenary.com for Focal pro.)