melbguy1 --
Note: The estimate of 200Hz was based on the previous model. That spec has not been published yet for the Mk2. None the less, the subjective balance and objective measured performance of the original S5 suggest that Magico was successful in integrating the upper bass to lower mid frequencies. The new S5 Mk2’s bass drivers use more powerful magnets in an underhung motor system, together with a lighter and much stiffer cone. Thus the drivers should be up to task.
Oh, without having heard the S5 Mk2’s I’m quite sure they managed to integrate the upper bass and lower mids in great fashion - I had no intention to question that. What I like about the bass system of the S5’s, on paper at least, is that it sports a sealed chamber as opposed to the more widely used reflex-loaded designs, plus the added benefit of a large air displacement area here. My own speakers also has the bass driver placed in a sealed chamber, from where it fires into the horn section, presenting a completely different (and to my ears much better) bass respons with actual timbre, speed and integration compared to my former reflex-loaded speakers. I’ve only heard the V2’s from Magico at a hifi show, and while they had interesting qualities I felt that particular demo to be marred by issues in the upper bass area (more of a coincident in this discussion).
Speaking of which (i.e.: the upper bass), my original observation was in relation to that of author W.A.J. from above linked article on the importance of the lower mids (in the region of ~250-500Hz) being reproduced by suitable, large drive units (i.e.: ~15") to instill the proper live (/realistic) imprinting, where it seems the twin 10" drivers of the S5’s falls just outside this frequency spectrum to remain solely in the low to upper bass region - even as Mk2 editions. This is not to flaunt any "15" lower mids drivers are the only thing working"-stance, but rather to stay within the premise put forth by poster fliz via linked article.
I understand the theory of what you’re describing, and yes many hybrid horn speakers i’ve heard have a live presence to them. Mind you, there is a reason Magico don’t use paper cones, or doped paper cones. I can assure you the previous model S5’s have plenty of physical presence and impact. You wont hear a midbass hump as with many other speakers. The NRC said the S5 was the best measuring speaker they ever tested. Magico’s transparency and linearity can take some time to get used to, but once aquainted, is addictive.
I’m quite sure the S5’s are more than bass-capable within their working area, also due to the sealed enclosure design - I wouldn’t question that; it’s how their prowess here is a design choice that likely excludes them from operating much higher into the lower mids, whereas a large diameter unit bass system tuned differently could, conversely, deal with the frequencies of the lower mids, at the expense of LF-strength below some 50Hz. I’d wager the use of a lightweight paper cone and lower loss pleated cloth surround is equally well thought-out here as well, and something the designers are unwilling to stray from for the intended use of the units.
In summary, every speaker has some trade offs. It’s just a matter of whether you’re happy with the strengths vs trade offs of a given loudspeaker & how that loudspeaker synergizes with your system and room according to your tastes and listening preferences.
Indeed. It seems in your case, and from the limited experience I have with the components here used, that you’ve struck a good sonic balance. Do you use the Vitus int. amp solely on Class-A mode?
