Avalon Sentinel

I suspect that the new Eidolon Diamond challenges the performance of the Sentinel at a much lower price. I know Avalon is installing the new Accuton diamond diaphagm tweeter in new Sentinels. In comparison to the Eidolon though, the Eidolon Diamond has many more changes than simply a new tweeter- it really is an entirely different product. The only commonality between the two speakers is the midrange driver. I'm not sure if Avalon is doing any wholesale reengineering of the Sentinel beyond the tweeter upgrade.

Please allow me to debunk a few misconceptions. First, the Eidolon Diamond is currently Avalon's newest product but it is important to consider this as an entirely new design, one which is separate and distinct from the Eidolon. To simply consider it as a refinement of the Eidolon's design parameters is like calling the Eidolon a redesign of the Ascent (Avalon's previous 3-way flagship). Also, the inference that all Avalon speakers have the same sonic signature, and that bass response is the principal improvement as you go up in price (and size) is a gross oversimplification and simply untrue. If that were truly the case, Avalon owners would do best to stay with the Avatars and use subwoofers. BTW, it is important to note that the Eidolon has far better lower octave performance (extension and definition) than either the Ascent or the Radian, both of which had physically larger cabinets.

Let me modify my post. I do agree that all Avalon speakers have a similar sonic signature, just like all speakers of the same designer/manufacturer typically do. This is not saying that they sound the same however. It is also reasonable to say that all Avalon speakers have a shared technological base, although I do feel safe in stating that some have a greater overlap than others. Of Avalon's current product line-up; the Opus, Opus Ceramique, Eidolon, Eidolon Diamond are more closely related than the Arcus, Eclipse Classic and Avatar. In terms of parts, the Eidolon Diamond has a different crossover, internal wiring, woofer and tweeter (over the Eidolon). To what extent these components effect a different sonic presentation will be for you to decide. I'd be willing to bet the Eidolon is much closer in performance to the Opus than the Diamond however.