Thiel Owners

Thanks for posting, Tom!

The external XO in an ~8" cube would be unobtrusive to include in a living space. I am even more interested now that I know the dimension. Given that my goal is to optimize the SQ, adding this small cabinet behind the speakers is a no-brainer. I'll await the report of your trials.

I need to correct the record. Above I wrote:

no burn in time tho’ Tom thinks this is not necessary for resistors

But here are his words to me in a PM:

All components benefit from burn-in, including resistors, but ESPECIALLY solder joints. The metallurgic structure has been disturbed and somehow heals in use. I expect your job will sound better over the coming weeks.

Apologies for misinterpreting an earlier message. I'll let the speakers run at least 100 hours before I do any serious comparisons.

Tomthiel, thank you for your prompt response. I can’t help but wonder if more traditional less high, 17” ( or 1/2 size X 2) with available rack mount wings, component style cases that could fit on a typical rack might appeal to more individuals who might prefer not to have boxes strewn on the floor? Such standard cases might be more cost effective?
As I alluded to previously an outboard crossover might lend itself to the option of bi or tri- amping for many models (with allowances made for CS5’s). Something that might be of particular interest to earlier models with bass eq’s.
I have neither the time, tools or expertise to be of much help, but I do have 3 3.5 eq’s. I might be willing to lend  2 of them as guinea pigs for upgrade considerations.  Balanced mono’s? In sympathy with updated cross-overs? Something(s) else? 

boxes strewn on the floor?

Voting options should include "It depends"?
:^)

No manufacturer can be all things to all people but there could be more DIY options given that these will be "kits". If Mr. Thiel does go outboard it would probably not be too onerous for a DIYer to modify these with binding posts and simply run a speaker cable from the XO on your rack to the speaker.

For myself, I prefer a solution of a high-quality strap from the external to the speaker cabinet (XO cabinet on the floor directly behind the speaker) and then cabling to the amp as normal.

tomthiel,

As I own both the 3.7s and the 2.7s, I agree.  The 2.7s do sound slightly different, the 3.7s sounding more open and a bit more resolving of the finest details and "air" around voices and instruments. 

The 2.7s are pretty darned good, though.  In a way I find the tonality of the 2.7s a little bit more beautiful and rich.  But as I say, it does seem at the cost of the last bit of openness :-)