Avalon: are new models quite better than older ?

FWIW, I know of a prominent Audiogon member who went from the Ascent II's (w/ Muse Model 18 subwoofer and its appropriate personality card) to the Eidolon with no regrets.

Just returned from the Italian Top Audio & Video Show, I've listen to Opus and Opus ceramic: yes, the bass is fast and really articulate... Faster than the previous Radians and Ascents ? I don't know. However I've noticed a very little difference in the sound between the ceramic drivers and the woofer... anyone thinking the same ? And the dynamics ? No match between Opus and Radians, bigger the drivers and cabinets better the dynamic range. Thanks, Luca.

Nothing to add but now I'm powering the Radians with the Pass X600 and I couldn't be more happy ! The sound is fast fast fast, dynamic and so musical... Do not underestimate the older Avalon guys, they are still incredible great speakers, trust me.

lUKE,YOU ARE NOT RATIONALIZING.i HEARD THE rADIANS IN A large nyc LOFT WITH SOTA ANCILLARIES AND THE SOUND ACROSS THE BOARD WAS STUNNING.i'M TALKING EVERY PARAMETER YOU CARE TO ASCRIBE.THEY KIND OF MADE ME SUBCONSCIOUSLY LAUGH EVERY TIME I HEAR A NEW WATT/PUPPY COMBO PUMPING OUT BIG VOL.OR, THE LATEST OVERPRICED KHARMA (OF WHICH A DEAR FRIEND OF MINE OWNS AND OPERATES QUITE WELL).

Sirspeedy, thanks for your 2nd post, i'm really glad with my Radians now... but it seems so difficult to explain to other audiogoners that a new project (read: Eidolon) not necessary is better than a previous one (read: Ascents or Radians). Cheers, Luca.