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Zu Druid MK IVs vs. Essences

I'm trying to decide between these two speakers and, after reading lots of reviews and impressions on-line, I'm more confused than ever. I'd like to hear what differences Audiogoners have experienced between the two. Of course, I'm not looking for the final word, or consensus - just folks' subjective impressions.

I won't get to audition either speakers, because I'm in northwest Wisconsin and a bit isolated. But I've bought a fair number of speakers without hearing them, so that doesn't worry me. I like revealing speakers that are a bit upfront and I'd rather have scintillating highs and great mids than thundering bass. I even like a little thin-ness in the bass.

Thanks in advance for any impressions you can offer.
klein_rogge

Showing 8 responses by charles1dad

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Klein,
Morganc says the Omen/Superflys have apparently more detail than the earlier Zu Druids/Essence models.

What amplifier? Price range?

Other options, Tekton,Tonian Lab, Coincident,Sonist. These are examples of high efficiency speakers with detail,especially the Coincident and Tonian Lab models.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Shadone,
The solution is simple if you don`t like the sound of something ,don`t buy it. For those who like the sound and if it improves their enjoyment, measurements be dammed.I`m sure you selected your componemts based on listening(I would hope) or would you purchase only based on measurements? Perhaps what you like sounds subpar to other listeners. It always subjective, so personal prefernce and individual impressions rule the day. How do we reach our final decisions? we use our ears and the response /effect to what we"hear".
If you no of a better way to audtion audio components I`m all ears.
Best Regards,
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Sebrof,
I believe that explanation is correct regarding inappropriate measuring method given the speaker`s unique design.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
For sake of arguement, even if the measurements of this Zu speaker are actually poor, if it sounds wonderful, then the measurements are irrelevant ultimately. Ears trump lab results.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Hi,
Docks which particular Zu models have you listened to and with what amplifier? Did the audition take place in your system, dealer showroom or was it at a show? What did you think?
Thanks Much,
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Bjesien,
I respect your opinion, but really that`s all it is. You or someone else could(and do) make the same statement about Wilson,Thiel,B/W Manaplanar etc. People simply like what they like. High End audio is nothing but "subjective choice" at the end of the day. If you`re happy with your system`s sound, great! be happy and don`t worry if another person`s taste does`nt match your own.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
I came to the realization quite a while ago that there are generally two broad camps of listeners.
1)The higher the power the better the amp and sound,this group tends to prefer lower efficiency speakers with 300,500....watts, hey how about 1000 watts anyone.

2)This camp prefers high efficiency speakers with simple first order, or no crossovers at all driven by low power but high quality amps,SET and PP usally with DHT tubes.

There`s no right or wrong approach as many roads lead to Rome. Threads like this one are a reminder.

As for me, after spending time in the former camp, I found the latter more satisfying and real. Just one man`s humble opinion.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Hi,
Onemug, I had come across this article by Eddie Vaughn about 3 years ago. At that time I was using a push-pull amplifier but was becoming aware of SET amps. It was fun reading it again last night, thanks. The article is well written and informative. I reaaly liked the explanation of fixed bias vs auto bias.

I`m enjoying my SET 300b Frankensteins so much(exceeded my high expectations) not certain I`ll ever go back to PP amplifiers(who knows though).

By the way Onemug I must tell you I`ve enjoyed reading your fine and informative contributions on this site. Please keep them coming.
Best Regards,
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