Audiophilepure

The Audiovector QR 7 is the best-sounding full-range loudspeaker I’ve heard at length in a familiar setting that costs less than $10k. Is it “better” than substantially more expensive products from Magico, Wilson, Von Schweikert, YG, Rockport or, for that matter, Audiovector’s larger R Series models? Probably not. But that isn’t, I feel, the question we should be asking. The QR 7 is an exceptionally overachieving product. By diligently developing alternative technologies and manufacturing practices, Audiovector provides entry to the most exalted level of performance that high-end audio has to offer. It’s a compromise…that isn’t.

Having apprised Karl-Heinz of the speakers’ arrival I was asked if I listened to digital audio and made use of Roon. When I responded in the affirmative, I was made aware that there are compatible DSP filters (delay-compensation) designed by FinkTeam that are works-in-progress. These filters compensate for group delay of the passive crossover in the upper midrange and, according to my research, the excess group delay can affect both the auditory image and spatial impression of sound as it is heard. A second set of filters compensates for overall group delay, which for Roon can drastically reduce delay to single rather than double digits in terms of milliseconds.

Note, the use of these filters is optional. I decided that since they were on offer I was going to listen to the speakers with and without them, if for nothing else a heightened sense of curiosity. It would be a crime not to. In my experimentation, I could hear the differences and the effects, but that does not mean they are suitable for everyone. In this new digital audio age, it makes sense for designers and manufacturers to extend themselves and make the most of what’s out there. If any of you are fortunate to acquire a pair for purchase or even a test drive, do avail yourself of the opportunity to experiment with these filters.

One thing I can say for sure is that even though the DM70 has many qualities that are home theater-friendly, they are an exciting choice for 2-channel. There have got to be other audio enthusiasts such as myself who appreciate the stark, minimalist aesthetic of the all-black cabinet and the focus on enveloping you in high-fidelity stereo sound.

https://www.soundandvision.com/content/definitive-technology-dm70-bipolar-tower-speakers-review

The Dymension DM70 is a big, bold speaker that’s a refinement of Definitive Technology’s bipole speaker designs. You won’t mistake it for another speaker, that’s for sure. At $4,000 for a pair, the DM70 is a sizable investment, but you get a lot of speaker for the money. The main question is if the bipole sound is right for you. I find it very appealing in moderation (using the –6 dB mode) and a lot of my favorite albums have an extra bit of sparkle and energy to them when playing through these towers.

One thing I can say for sure is that even though the DM70 has many qualities that are home theater-friendly, they are an exciting choice for 2-channel. There have got to be other audio enthusiasts such as myself who appreciate the stark, minimalist aesthetic of the all-black cabinet and the focus on enveloping you in high-fidelity stereo sound.

Earlier, I described the F704 as an ‘absolute unit’, but that isn’t strictly true. Sure, it’s a big and heavy loudspeaker (especially for one made in the UK), but there’s no flab or excess weight to the sound. Bass is clean, deep and forceful, with a good lick of speed to it. It even passes the Trentemøller test, with fast, deep synth bass notes not choking up the down-firing port; a sure sign of some really intelligent loudspeaker design.

Practically everyone who has written about Fyne Audio’s products has used this wordplay, but the F704 is a ‘fine’ loudspeaker. It’s the antithesis of ‘boring but worthy’ loudspeakers yet can be extremely civilised and refined. Music is an upfront, vibrant and visceral experience when played through the Fyne Audio F704, and there’s nothing wrong with that at all. Sometimes we want a loudspeaker that hums along in the background, then we need a loudspeaker than can enthral and entertain, and sometimes we just need to party hard. The F704 is all those things!