Acoustic Zen Adagios help.


OK, this was a surprise.  I picked up a pair of Acoustic Zen Adagios yesterday to replace my Klipsch RF-83's.  I thought the AZA's would blow the 83's away.  Not so much.

Let me begin with a disclaimer.  I spent a lot of time placing the 83's and getting the toed in just right.  Haven't done that with the AZA's yet, neither have I installed the outriggers.  Tonight I will spend time tweaking them.  So my initial reactions are based on the AZA's setting where the Klipsch sat.

Initial reaction: AZA's are pristine in the top end.  They truly sparkle.  The soundstage has deepened over my Klipsch. They definitely provide incredible detail.   The bass is fast and tight, but I find it lacking a bit.  Again, I will have to lay around with placement, but if I keep the AZA's I will likely add a sub or two.  

I think I prefer the AZA's, but I am surprised they didn't knock my socks off.  The 
Klipsch lack the finesse of the AZA's, but seem to fill the room better especially in the lower end. My room 17' x 21' and is treated with bass traps and some absorption.  I was using Cambridge Audio 840w 840e separates.

Tonight I will fiddle with placement toe in, etc.  Any advice from AZA owners about placement?  Will the outriggers make a substantial difference?  So far, only moderately impressed.

Thanks, Chip
chipbyrd
Bass reinforcement in a room can has been a real problem here. I've had problems for years, even with some speakers known for handling the lows with authority. Things must be right so that the current flow to the woofers will maximize cone movement. If not, you can get some confounding results. And the amp-speaker match is not always straightforward and sometimes calls for significant trial and error. A favorable match of the amp to the speakers rules. Quality of power can play a role too. There are a number of variables that can affect getting the bass you want. But I will echo others; give the speakers more time. You had to move your cables to put in new speakers, no? Give them a chance to re-settle. Consider too that the AZA's present a different load to your amp than did the Klipsch. Good luck. I have to have bass reinforcement to be satisified, and I always prefer it from the loudspeakers more than subs.
Hello Teajay,

It was great meeting you, too. When I got home and hooked up the Adagios they sounded good, but not a vast improvement over my Klipsch RF-83’s. I was a little frustrated because I heard the Adagios and thought they were awesome. Well… to make a long story short I called Acoustic Zen and talked to Mr. Lee (what a gentleman). He asked me how far apart my speakers were and I told him about 8 ½’. He said to move them closer. With a little playing and listening, they ended up just inside 7’ apart and 40” from the wall and a slight toe in. I also attached the outriggers. Now, all I can say is wow! Wow!

Teajay, you were spot on with the Klipsch. I definitely love them, but part of what I like about them is the “slam.” They sound great, and the sheer power is almost addictive. But the Adagios bring definition, clarity, soundstage, that I have never had in a speaker. They will definitely be staying for a while. I mentioned when I was there that I get concerned when reviewers use too much hyperbole. But I have to say, for the price I paid for the Adagios, hyperbole seelms spot on. The sound is “breathtaking.”

I have also decided when my piggy bank fills up again I am going on the hunt for a couple subs. I will let you know how that goes

If you ever get up Holland way, give me a shout.

Thanks all for the comments,
Chip
Hi Bogeybuster,

I bought the Adagios used and Tom was kind enough to include them, in addition to giving me a great deal. They do make a difference.

Chip