full range or mini's and a sub


Guys I'm not the most seasoned audiophile so I'm sorry if this is a stupid question.  However, here it goes...  I have heard many audiophiles talk about the magic of mini-monitors and their ability to disappear and soundstage.  Many say that it is very difficult to get the same advantages with full-range speakers.  Still most reference systems seem to be built around full range speakers.  If there is a true magic to mini-monitors why don't I see more reference systems with mini-monitors and subs for the lows?

128x128asmithkash

Showing 1 response by rolox

IMHO the mini monitor + sub only matches full range speakers if an active crossover is included, or, at least, some high-pass on the main amp.

Otherwise, you will still be limited by power handling and distortion from your 5inch main "woofers", and dynamic capabilities / max SPL will be limited.

Such an active crossover could introduce noise and distortion (may I advise Sublime Acoustic’s K231 crossover or the brand new K235 currently at reduced launch price?)

I was recently forced to switch from my huge 4 ways active horn system to a pair of tiny Dali Zensor 1 mini monitors and I have to admit, there are a few things that the cheap and tiny Dalis do better than my monsters (out in the room on stands, they really disappear and throw a deeeeep soundstage) but ultimately I was really missing the scale, the slam, and the flow of my big system.