fliz32 posts12-28-2015 3:24pmFliz, i’m not an audio engineer, but from what I understand, higher efficiency speakers presents a lighter load to the amplifier, requiring less current and dynamic power from the amplifier, thus allowing even SET tube amps to drive more efficient speakers with impressive bass and dynamics.
To my ears, nothing approaches the realism of a really high efficiency speaker. The dynamics of something that’s 100db/1w/1m or better is unmatched by anything less efficient.
Moving lots of air is key. Mid-bass is where all the body is.
I agree with WAJ and have a pair of his ’A’ list speakers.
I agree that the more difficult route is designing something like a Magico S5 mk2 which is a sealed box design using 2 x 10" bass drivers (equivolent to a 14.5" unit according to Martin Colloms). The two tens handle the low, mid & upper bass, crossing over to the midrange at about 200Hz - instead of one larger bass driver as used in many hybrid designs. The S5 Mk2’s moderate efficiency (89db @4ohms) suggests these speakers are still best matched with ss amps with robust power supplies & good current to control the speakers.
Stereophile define dynamic as "Giving an impression of wide dynamic range; punchy. This is related to system speed as well as to volume contrast". The S5 Mk2’s new 10" bass drivers have massive magnets which help saturate the structure around the coil which prevents eddy currents forming, which in concert with the lighter and stiffer hybrid carbon Nano-tube/Nano-graphene cone material should reduce distortion & improve dynamics.
Furthermore the excursion rate of the voice coil for the new 10" bass drivers is measured at 15 mm linear movement, twice as much as its predecessor. With the new model’s improvements to drivers, the cabinet & crossover, they should provide excellent sound staging, imaging & dynamics.
Magico speakers in general sound transparent and linear, though the S series are a bit more laid back in presentation than the Q series, sound a bit warmer & have fuller bass. The S5’s for example already have wonderful resolution and texture in the bass and midrange, but to get a sound which is harmonically rich and fluid, one just needs to choose their partnering amps, front end, cables & conditioner/wpo etc carefully. I’ve found Vitus Audio partners particularly well. Just saying there is more than one way to skin a cat ;).