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A Hidden "Feature" of the Cornwall IV

The Cornwall IV is so sensitive in all respects.  Source, cables, power, time of day, recording, tubes---it is so revealing of changes you make.  I won't say it's scientifically transparent.  Instead, I'd say that it's overtly shows a difference with every change you make.  That can become a game or enjoyable in its own right, and draw you away from the music.

The good news is the Cornwall IVs are clearly a musical speaker.  This translates into most swaps of gear in and out sounding pleasant in their own right.    

Here's the problem:   I can easily sit tight with the Cornwalls and any decent setup of attached kit. But it is so utterly intoxicating to hear so many different things play with the Cornwalls.  

Curiosity killed the cat.  This cat might end up in bankruptcy!

What a wonderful loudspeaker. 
128x128jbhiller
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,430 posts
 
Yes, I use a sub with them.  I try to carefully adjust it with the crossover starting at its lowest point and adding volume until I get a seamless "match".  Then, I can up the crossover a bit IF I feel it necessary.  However, I use my REL sub to merely add dimension, space, and a low end frame to the music.  The objective is to not hear it specifically.  

The Cornwall IVs are way more sensitive to placement than my Forte IIIs were.  I actually got a little frustrated dialing them in.  
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,430 posts
 
@mofojo ,

I'm near Chicago.   You're welcome to hear them here.  Probably smart to wait until full vaccination is available.  But you're 100% welcome. 
arcticdeth's avatar
arcticdeth
1,572 posts
 
Yes, listened to several Klipsch offerings, 
    Yes, the newer incarnations are much more easier on the ears than the older models.
    As mentioned, amps, sources, and the recording is a huge factor in the Klipsch sound!

  Ok, maybe I came off as confrontational, not what I wanted to do.
it did sound trite and rude, I re read my post
    While not the ear splitting and molar gritting sound of the 1993 cornerhorns, the newer models are easier on the ears with the correct amplification.


 Cheers.
ozzy62's avatar
ozzy62
3,150 posts
 
newer models are easier on the ears with the correct amplification.

The same can be said of older models. A lot of people have listened to klipsch speakers with cheap receivers or SS amps. Not a good combination. I had 1976 khorns with Voti xovers and damped midrange horns and the sound was excellent with tube amplification.

Yes, tubes are generally key with horns.


jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,430 posts
 
@arcticdeth,  I  have to admit that I used to loath Klipsch and I had not heard enough of them or with quality source and amplification.  

Steve Guttenberg and Steve Huff are both knowledgeable people who love music and the hobby.  They both see the CW IV and Forte III as amazing loudspeakers.   I'm not saying they are the mouthpiece of gospel, but rather they are generally smart audiophiles with fair and decent track records.  

For anyone who thinks Klipsch are shrill, harsh, shouty, overpriced, not competitive with the alleged "state of the art" speakers out there....Check this out: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FXdQ_2oKN98

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