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Focal Sopra n1 - mids are a bit recessed compared to Lumina IIs

I upgraded my speakers from Sonus Faber Lumina II's to Focal Sopra N1. I am using the Luxman 595 class A amp, which I used for the Lumina IIs as well. 

I love the bass and imaging of the Sopra N1s. Really good! However, one thing is bothering me. The mids or vocals seemed more recessed on the Sopra N1s when compared to my much cheaper Lumina IIs. Why is this? I miss the liveliness of the Lumina IIs from having those mids more forward. 

Also, when I heard the Focal Sopra N1s at the store on a McIntosh 12000, I did not detect the mids being recessed. So it's very confusing also in that respect.  

dman777

Showing 2 responses by erik_squires

erik_squires
15,788 posts
 

I did some research, and based on the measurements here:

 

https://www.soundstagenetwork.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1445:nrc-measurements-focal-sopra-no2-loudspeakers&Itemid=153

Besides the normal advice for Focals (little to no toe-in) you may also want to add some EQ between 5 and 10 kHz to dampen the treble bump.  Alternatively some gentle use of the treble control will work.

erik_squires
15,788 posts
 

I've listened to prior generations of the same speaker and found a similar issue.  Interestingly enough, the problems goes away with the larger versions.  For instance, the Focal Profile 2-way vs. the 2.5 way (2 vs. 3 drivers).  I think it's a deliberate balance, the 2-ways seem to be better suited for low-mid volume listening.

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