Thiel Owners

@jafant Looks like either a qx-5 or dx-5 into an ax-5 will clip at about “40” on the indicator, assuming full output CD such as most rock recordings. Only a small difference between the models. This is for XLR connections. RCA will be more like “44”. This also assumes a stock AX-5. Apparently, there is a version with 6 dB gain resistors, so that will modify accordingly. Keep in mind this is not an exact science and other factors can influence the onset of clipping. 

@tomthiel I can’t wait to hear your airflow technology. I’m wondering how that might modify image density.

You guys facing inclement weather -stay safe and warm out there.

Beetle - patents are in the works, so no substantive news yet. I am beta-developing the technology using the CS1.6 as my test mule. The 1.6 / 1.7 slotted port is unusual in its airflow dynamics. Ports care where they are placed in their enclosures. The 1.6 long slot side-steps some of those placement issues by being placed in the lower chamber at large. So its airflow dynamics are more complex than usual, since the broad placement creates a gradient of interface parameters with the enclosure resonances.

I can report first-hand that the slot works.
I can also report that the interface technology will improve it as well as improve speakers in general - a fluid dynamics solution for fluid dynamics problems.

Plenty more to tell when I can.

Beetle - I have heard A-B comparisons only with Tannoy speakers in a good large room with decent sources. These demos were professional, not high-fi. I would not say there was any particularly tangible imaging involved. What everyone including myself heard was a cohesive solidity in the harmonic structure of the sound field - natural detail and realness entered the scene, akin to the proverbial lifting of the veil where none had been evident. I would call the effect extraordinary and surprising.

Within the month I expect to have a customized kit of materials to apply to the 1.6s for direct A-B comparison and SpectraFoo analysis in my studio.