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Seeking input on Larsen speakers

Hi all,
was hoping someone here on the forums might have spent some time with Larsen speakers (the new 9 has some attractive aspects, but it’s hard to find much in the way of reviews online ). 
It seems like the design is pretty polarizing - from what I have seen people either love the resulting sound, or find the design rife with problems. 
If anyone has any first hand experience, I’d love to hear your thoughts and impressions, as I’ve had an interest in Larsens but have never had a chance to hear them. 
Thanks!
sfmorris
frazeur1
345 posts
 

sfmorris-I am not sure what is classified as heavy rock exactly...I have never been into metal, but my fare typically was a huge dose of classic rock, Genesis, Yes, Pink Floyd and the likes, as well as various jazz, folk, acoustic, some electronica, a smattering of classical, and really, I felt like my Model 4's did it all pretty well.

Maybe with really heavier rock/metal, the speakers are not going to plumb the depths of hades, or give you that gut thump in the chest some may want.

On the new Model 9, I have no idea how it sounds, or what is different about the drivers, crossover, etc., as I haven't heard it. It looks nice in that typical Swedish way. Rather pricey, but maybe worth it, I don't know.

The best thing you can do is try to get a listen to them and hear if they fit your tastes. As I have said though, give them a bit of a listen, don't make a quick judgment on them, as they are a different perspective.

pryso
1,933 posts
 
sfmorris, have you ever heard of Sonab speakers? They were designed by Stig Carlsson in Sweden. They are no longer produced but here is a website with lots of information, including design objectives.

https://www.carlssonplanet.com/en/speakers/produced/sonab-oa-116/

As I understand it the owner/designer of Larsen speakers worked with Carlsson so utilized that experience to produce updated versions of that basic design.

I think the two main considerations will be 1) ability to place the speakers within an inch or two of the front wall (desirable for many people, particularly with WAF considerations), and 2) by design the soundstage presentation will be different from a uni-pole design placed out in the room (an advantage to some, disadvantage to others). So it starts with your listening objectives.

Good luck.
br3098
995 posts
 
sfmorris, you might enjoy the Larsens playing Nine Inch Nails.  But most heavy rockers are looking for high SPLs, which the Larsens do not generate.  But neither does a live performance.

Are you old enough to remember the famous Maxell as with the guy in the chair, sitting in front of his speakers, and his hair is being blown back.  That's my stereotypical (no pun intended) heavy rocker.  The more air that is being displaced the better.  Horn speakers need not apply.
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