Using Dipole Speakers in a Stereo System


I'm in the process of trying to determine if I should purchase a pair of Genesis APM-1 speakers that have become available in my area. However, in my many years of listening and experimenting with audio equipment I have never used dipole speakers and need some advice.

My current system consists of an older Shanling solid state CD player, California Audio Labs DAC, Rogue Audio 100W Sphinx integrated hybrid stereo amp and Martin Logan Odyssey speakers. My main concern is that, because I listen primarily to solo guitar and light jazz, the expanded soundstage that I've read that dipoles are known for, might not be a good match.

Any advice will be appreciated.
128x128broadstone
Thanks. Even though we could attempt matching our room decor, because a lot of time and money went into finishing this room to our tastes, we really don't want to hang anything on that wall. I do, however want to experiment with dampening as you mentioned.

I'll try the method that I already alluded to. It sounds like you're familiar with the construction of the ML transducer frame so I'll explain how I intend pulling this off. Using a felt panel cut to the dimensions of the transducer, I'll use the topmost frame cross brace for attachment of the cloth to the back side of the panel. It will hang about 10 inches behind the panel.

If this works out for listening to solo guitar I can leave it in place with the option of easily removing it for listening that requires a more expanded soundstage. I'm going to a craft shop tomorrow and choose an appropriate material.
Jcharvet, I bought some egg crate design open cell foam and cut two panels from it to match the dimensions of the transducer panels of the Odysseys. i had my wife and a grandson hold these panels about ten inches behind the speakers and started listening to solo guitar CD's.

At lower volumes I could discern no difference whether or not these dampers were in place. At higher volumes, though, there is a noticeable difference which seems better with the dampening in place. This difference seems as much related to an improved center stage as anything else. The bottom line is that this reduction of reflected energy improves listening for me, at least for this solo instrument.
Whether the felt panel works or not, it would be great if you let everyone know via this thread.

Additionally, some acoustic panel manufacturers make stand mounted panels. These positioned behind your M/L's may be less visible & hence, less likely to be an aesthetic issue.
Mrmb, I decided not to try the felt; the egg crate design foam seemed to more closely resemble the material used in anachoic chambers that I've seen. Also, felt actually seems like a fairly hard material, now that I've looked at it, and it may be somewhat reflective of sound energy itself.

Anyway, the design I'm using will be an attachment to the Odyssey cross brace holding the damping material approximately one foot behind the tranducer. I could easily be wrong in assuming this but, because of the curved design of Martin Logan panels, damping material closer to the speaker may work better.