Zu Druids upgraded Vs Essence

Had both here.

Can't agree with Bonesetter2004.

Or to put it another way, I couldn't disagree more.

I have extensive experience with both Druid and Essence which includes well over 2 dozen amplifiers of every topology.

I find them far more similiar than not and am perplexed by Bonesetter's comments.

Dealer disclaimer.

Were the Essence brand new?

Zu IMHO is like the $500 car with the 2k stereo system. Something doesn't balance out. I had the Essence for 6 months with 3 different good amps and it sounded like a sub 2k speaker in some regards but a 5k speaker in others.

To my ears they are a little sharp (Not bright) regardless of placement and treatment (Moved them to an $50k designed room,) and the tweeter is weird and less than natural sounding. I think the ribbon bargain bucket.

It is extremely dynamic and can sound very present, more than most in the price range, but it is less seductive IMO.

A great choice for many.

I've been told by a real Zu-ey that the Essence is unlike any other Zu model. Maybe it was put out to make a statement. This particular Zu-ey finds the ribbon to be most problematic. Not sure.
I've heard a system similiar to what Bone heard and I would concur with him. What I'm hearing in this particular room I can't get behind. Some things sound intriguing, like the dynamics. I call them the waterfall speakers, sounds like sound sprouts forth from the top but nothing beneath it for support. Maybe the setup needs changed, not sure. We're supposed to be having a Zu party in town which I'd like to go to, then hearing it properly Zu-ed up I can make an informed decision.
Thanks for posting that, Bone. Maybe they're just not for us, yet...