Uncompromised multichannel systems comprise identical speakers. Therefore all our models can be used for cinema or surround applications – and unlike conventional passive designs, each can safely be given a full-range signal containing LFE information: each speaker effectively includes a true, independently EQ-able subwoofer.
Why the difference? First, our woofers have unusually robust power handling. A floorstanding speaker with one or more 6-8 inch bass drivers might typically be rated for 100-150W. Our dual twelve inch woofers can handle 500W+: they were designed for pro audio applications. Second, when a passive speaker is overdriven, it is common for crossover components to fail. Our speakers don’t have passive crossover components to fail. Third, the sub-25Hz frequencies present in LFE tracks that are particularly stressful to speakers are sharply rolled off within the active crossover: all our models are effectively high-passed at 25Hz (LR24) for extra protection, and to avoid bias or over-excursion of the woofers.
Although not every two-channel system requires substantial output below 25Hz, every cinema system does. Therefore one or more boxed subwoofers are recommended, or our CC3150 open-baffle sub. Because bass performance of Item’s full-range open baffles is relatively strong and ideally distributed around the listening room, we usually recommend constraining the output of boxed subs below 80Hz: a crossover of around 50Hz is often the most effective in this case.
DESIGN & INSTALLATION
Replicating a commercial cinema with large in-built or floorstanding speakers is the acoustic ideal but domestic AV systems are often constrained by space or budget – therefore we have created two compact speakers tone-matched to certain Item models. One excellent solution to the conundrum of mix-and-match music/cinema listening is the specification of the Hypex amp option for the front left/right speakers: these can be connected via their analog inputs to a cinema preamp, and (also) directly to a digital source for higher quality two-channel reproduction.
Bulky multichannel AV amps are not required: either the preamp outputs from your receiver can be used, or – preferably – a dedicated AV processor/preamp with balanced (XLR) outputs. Alternatively (but not achieving the same levels of sound quality) certain models can be ordered with a passive crossover to be driven by a conventional AV receiver and long runs of speaker cable.
For design and installation advice, please enquire for details on 01242 692455.
MODEL 360: from £425
The two-way 360 dipole is tone-matched to the Model 560 open baffle, featuring the same eight-inch full range paper-cone driver, underpinned by a single eight-inch bass driver. The low frequency roll-off is 80Hz ±3dB, making it ideally matched to a conventional Dolby-approved 80Hz crossover. The slim form factor can be deployed as a discreet floorstander or a shelf-mounted centre channel – please order the relevant mount for your application. Model 360 can also be used as a very compact open-baffle satellite in conjunction with boxed or open baffle subwoofers, giving all the advantages of boxless ‘point source’ rendition above the crossover point.
Available in active or passive versions.
ATEX AV: from £499
The two-way Atex AV dipole is tone matched to the Atex One floorstanding speaker, featuring the same polypropylene midrange driver with cast aluminium frame and a four-inch fibreglass cone wideband tweeter. The low frequency roll-off is 80Hz ±3dB, making it ideally matched to a conventional Dolby-approved 80Hz crossover. The slim form factor can be deployed as a discreet floorstander or a shelf-mounted centre channel – please order the relevant mount for your application. Model 360 can also be used as a very compact open-baffle satellite in conjunction with boxed or open baffle subwoofers.
Available in active or passive versions