Warren Gregoire and Associates LLC FOR THE DISCRIMINATING AUDIO ENTHUSIAST




IKONOKLAST5

In every loudspeaker manufacturer's product line, one mid-priced model inevitably becomes identified as the "sweet spot."- That particular model that is thought to offer most of the benefits of the top-of-the-line, but at a sharply reduced price.

Because Ikonoklast5 subjectively delivers over 90% of the intoxicating, nearly full range, breathtakingly lifelike sound reproduction of the flagship Model 3, at only two-thirds the price, we believe this is about as sweet as things get!

The Model 5 comes sufficiently close in sound quality to our top model, that we doubt many people could easily distinguish them, in a loudness-matched comparison test.

Certainly, the finest source components, mated with state-of-the-art amplification and cables would be required to reveal the difference.

For this system, we have selected the Single Membrane Coherent Line Source tweeter and paired it with a magnificent, ultra low mass Mid/LF reproducer, with an appropriately matched room sensitivity profile.

The underlying key to the superlative sonic realism is provision of our exclusive 3/4-wave transmission line enclosure for the Mid/LF driver.

This advanced technology back loading system does what many loudspeaker designers would consider impossible: it enables a light weight moving system midrange drive unit (only7 grams mms) to operate all the way down, to below 30Hz with unbelievable power, for its diminutive 5.25" size. The system provides un-rolled-off, flat response to near 40Hz, in a typical small room!

But, extended low frequency response is only part of the triple length transmission line advantage.

Use of the same driver to reproduce the midrange and low bass is significant in that it eliminates the need for a phase distorting, stereo image degrading, reactive crossover network, containing sound quality obliterating capacitors and inductors.

The "zero crossover components" theme is carried even to the transition between the Mid/LF driver and the Coherent Line Source tweeter. The Tweeter's unconventional piezoelectric motor automatically rejects lower frequencies, while the Mid/LF driver exhibits a complementary, automatic high frequency rolloff. The output of the two drivers is thereby effortlessly blended, using the absolute optimum number of capacitive and inductive crossover network components: zero.

Combined with physical arrival time compensation mounting of the tweeter and Mid/LF reproducer, the crossover-less transition regenerates a coherent sound front that keeps both drivers in nearly perfect phase relationship in the crossover region and beyond. The result is a more stable and convincing stereo image and an engaging "roundness" to the sound of reproduced voices and instruments.

When sensitive low mass drive units are directly connected to the driving amplifier, without intervening power robbing crossover components, good things happen to sensitivity. This effect is enhanced by the low back pressure transmission line loading for the Mid/LF element, freeing it from the necessity to struggle against the cushion of trapped air that characterizes the more typical sealed or ported enclosures.

The average room sensitivity of 92dB indicates the system should be easy to drive, but it doesn't tell the whole story.

Ikonoklast5 sounds clear and engaging when reproducing lower sound pressure levels than other systems with similar numeric sensitivity ratings. We refer to this concept as downward dynamic range. It is partly this quality that enables the system to be driven satisfyingly, even with micro-powered amplifiers.

We offer a virtually unending selection of fine hardwood veneer finishes, all of which "wrap around" to include the rear of the cabinet. Standard choices include Cherry, Mahogany, Oak and Walnut. Other species may be selected at extra cost, depending upon availability.

COHERENT LINE SOURCE TWEETER
How it Works

A very thin conical, metal membrane is attached at its apex to an ultra-low mass piezoelectric motor. The sound waves ripple lengthwise through the surface until they reach the distance along the membrane which corresponds to 1/2 wavelength at each particular frequency. At that point they are launched into the air omnidirectionally, like the ripples in a pond, when a pebble is tossed in. The geometry of the membrane, combined with the various launch points enable all frequencies to arrive at the listening position with virtually perfect timing (phase coherence).

......Membrane --> ......launch point <----- ......for only this ......one particular ......frequency ....................motor ------>

....-------- 1/2 wavelength ....... | ...at one ....... | .. particular ....-------- frequency

SPECIFICATIONS

Frequency Response .................................................... 30Hz to 30kHz
Average Room Sensitivity .............................................. 92dB/2.83V/m
Nominal Impedance ............................................................... 8 Ohms
Average Impedance .............................................................. 16 Ohms
Power Handling (Long/Short Term) ......................................... 40/55 W
Cabinet Dimensions ..................................... 23.75"H x 8.25"W x 12"D
Cabinet Finish ................................................. Fine Hardwood Veneer



Want more details about Ikonoklast systems?
Click here for the
Expanded Information Package

60-DAY MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE*
5-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

*Except 2-way shipping and handling, plus a 15% service charge.
*Extra charges for customer-caused damage may apply.

PRICE: $3,000. pr., IKONOKLAST5

QUESTIONS? CALL NOW TOLL-FREE 1-800-634-0094

Specifications, prices and availability subject to change without notice.
Copyright 2008 Warren Gregoire and Associates LLC
All Rights Reserved.