Quadral is a company that specializes in the design and manufacturing of high-fidelity loudspeakers and audio equipment. The brand is recognized for its commitment to audio performance, innovation, and the quality of its products, which cater to a wide range of audio enthusiasts and professionals. Quadral offers a variety of products, including floorstanding speakers, bookshelf speakers, subwoofers, and home cinema systems, all designed with the aim of reproducing sound as faithfully as possible.

Quadral

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### Understanding High-End Audio: The 2.0 Channel Foundation

**Introduction to High-End Audio and the 2.0 Channel System**

High-end audio systems are revered for their ability to reproduce sound with exceptional clarity, depth, and fidelity. At the heart of many such systems is the 2.0 channel setup, which consists of two speakers - a left and a right. This configuration is a staple in the high-end audio world due to its simplicity and effectiveness in delivering a pure and uncolored soundstage.

**The Philosophy Behind 2.0 Channels in High-End Systems**

The preference for 2.0 channels in high-end setups is rooted in the pursuit of audio purity. With only two channels, the audio path is more direct, reducing the potential for signal degradation or interference that might occur in more complex setups. This simplicity ensures that the sound is as close to the original recording as possible, a key goal for audiophiles.

**Technical Aspects of 2.0 Systems**

In a 2.0 system, each speaker is responsible for reproducing a full range of frequencies. High-end speakers are typically designed with this in mind, featuring advanced drivers and enclosures that can handle low, mid, and high frequencies effectively. The absence of a subwoofer in these setups is not seen as a limitation but as a design choice that emphasizes precision over sheer power.

**The Role of Amplifiers in 2.0 Setups**

The amplifier in a 2.0 system is more than just a power source; it's the heart of the audio experience. High-end amplifiers are not merely about amplifying sound; they're about preserving the nuances and details of the audio. In 2.0 setups, such as those crafted by Pass Labs and McIntosh, the amplifiers are fine-tuned to deliver an unadulterated audio signal. This precision ensures that the stereo output retains the original quality of the recording, reflecting the artist's intent with utmost fidelity.

### The Role of Subwoofers: Introducing the 2.1 Setup

**The Basics of the 2.1 Setup**

Moving from a 2.0 to a 2.1 setup involves adding a subwoofer to the existing two speakers. This configuration aims to enhance the overall sound quality by reproducing the lower frequencies more effectively than most standard speakers can achieve. The subwoofer takes over the task of delivering deep bass, allowing the main speakers to focus on mid and high frequencies.

**Why Add a Subwoofer?**

The addition of a subwoofer is often seen as a logical step to achieve a more complete sound. In the discussion shared, audiophiles highlighted that even high-end speakers might struggle with the lowest frequencies. A subwoofer can fill this gap, ensuring that the audio spectrum is fully represented. This addition can lead to a more accurate and immersive listening experience, particularly in genres of music where bass plays a prominent role.

**Integrating a Subwoofer in High-End Systems**

Integrating a subwoofer into a high-end system requires careful consideration. Most high-end pre-amps, have a sub output, making it technically feasible to add a subwoofer. The subwoofer typically has its own amplifier, so it doesn’t require power from the main amplifier. This separation allows for more control over the bass levels and the overall balance of the sound.

**Subwoofers: Not Just for Home Theater**

There's a common misconception that subwoofers are primarily for home theater systems. However, as the conversation reveals, subwoofers have a place in music reproduction too. They aren’t just about adding power to the sound; they're about enriching the listening experience by accurately reproducing the full range of sound as intended in the recording.

### Evolving to 2.2: The Dual Subwoofer Approach

**Introduction to the 2.2 Setup**

The evolution from a 2.1 to a 2.2 system marks a significant step in enhancing the audio experience. In a 2.2 configuration, two subwoofers are paired with the traditional stereo speakers. This setup is gaining popularity among audiophiles for its ability to create a more balanced and immersive soundstage.

**Why Two Subwoofers?**

Adding two subwoofers instead of one can dramatically improve the distribution of bass frequencies within a room. The primary advantage is the reduction of bass 'dead spots' and the creation of a more uniform bass response throughout the listening area. This is particularly important in unevenly shaped rooms or spaces with challenging acoustics.

**Optimal Placement of Dual Subwoofers**

The placement of subwoofers in a 2.2 setup is critical. Contrary to the common practice of placing subwoofers next to the main speakers, audiophiles recommend experimenting with different locations in the room. The goal is to achieve a smooth bass response across the listening area. Techniques like distributed bass arrays are mentioned as effective methods to achieve this.

**Integrating Subwoofers with Main Speakers**

Integrating two subwoofers with the main speakers requires more than just physical placement. The conversation highlighted the importance of tuning the subwoofers to work in harmony with the main speakers. This involves adjusting crossover frequencies, phase settings, and volume levels to ensure a cohesive sound that doesn’t overpower or undermine the main speakers.

**Benefits of a 2.2 System**

The 2.2 system is not just about adding more bass; it's about enhancing the overall listening experience. Dual subwoofers can provide a more precise and controlled bass response, which is particularly beneficial for music genres with complex bass lines or deep, resonant tones. This setup can reveal subtleties in music that might be missed in a 2.0 or 2.1 system.

### Subwoofers and Vinyl Playback: An Analog Dilemma

**The Vinyl Resurgence and High-End Audio**

The resurgence of vinyl has brought a renewed focus on the analog listening experience. Vinyl enthusiasts often prefer setups that honor the warm, natural sound of analog recordings. However, integrating subwoofers into these systems presents unique challenges.

**Analog Purity vs. Bass Enhancement**

The primary concern in adding a subwoofer to a vinyl setup is maintaining the integrity of the analog signal. Vinyl listeners value the untouched, pure sound of their records. Introducing a subwoofer, especially in a digital format, can be seen as a compromise to this purity. It emphasizes finding a balance between enhancing bass frequencies and preserving the analog character of vinyl.

**Integrating Subwoofers in Vinyl Systems**

For vinyl systems, the integration of subwoofers needs to be handled delicately. The use of high-level connections, as suggested by some audiophiles, is a method to connect subwoofers to vinyl setups without converting the signal to digital. This approach can maintain the analog integrity while benefiting from the subwoofer’s bass extension.

**Choosing the Right Subwoofer for Vinyl**

Not all subwoofers are suited for vinyl playback. Selecting a subwoofer that complements the nuances of analog sound is crucial. Audiophiles recommend looking for subwoofers with a natural, uncolored sound that can accurately reproduce the lower frequencies without overwhelming the inherent qualities of vinyl recordings.

### High-End Amplifiers: Design Philosophies and Subwoofer Compatibility

**The Essence of High-End Amplifier Design**

High-end amplifiers represent a pinnacle of audio engineering, where the focus extends beyond mere functionality to achieving sonic perfection. Brands like Pass Labs and McIntosh embody this pursuit through their commitment to sonic clarity and detail. Their design philosophy steers away from adding complexity, like dedicated subwoofer channels, to maintain a pure, uncolored audio pathway. This approach underlines the belief that in high-end audio, less can often be more, prioritizing the quality of each component to ensure an exceptional listening experience.

**Why High-End Amplifiers Often Lack Dedicated Subwoofer Channels**

High-end amplifiers typically do not include dedicated subwoofer outputs because their design is rooted in traditional stereo audio principles. The aim is to deliver a pristine, uncolored sound, and the addition of a subwoofer channel is often seen as a deviation from this goal. However, this doesn't mean they are incompatible with subwoofers; it simply implies a different approach to integration.

**Integrating Subwoofers with High-End Amplifiers**

Integrating a subwoofer with these amplifiers usually involves using the pre-amp outputs or speaker-level outputs. The discussion suggests that most pre-amps have a sub output, and many subwoofers come with their own amplifiers, making this integration feasible. The key is to ensure that the subwoofer is complementing, not overpowering, the main speakers.

**Strategies for Subwoofer Integration**

To effectively integrate a subwoofer into a high-end 2.0 system, it's crucial to pay attention to aspects like crossover settings, phase alignment, and volume balancing. This ensures that the subwoofer works in harmony with the main speakers, enhancing the bass response without compromising the overall sound quality.

### Optimizing Your High-End System with Subwoofers

**Understanding Subwoofer Placement and Calibration**

Proper placement and calibration are essential for integrating subwoofers into a high-end audio system. The placement of subwoofers should be experimented with for optimal bass response. This might involve moving them around the room and adjusting settings until the bass feels evenly distributed and integrated with the speakers.

**The Benefits of Dual Subwoofers in High-End Systems**

Adding two subwoofers (a 2.2 setup) can address room-related bass inconsistencies and enhance the overall listening experience. The key is to ensure that they are properly positioned and calibrated so that they work together to provide a smooth and even bass response throughout the listening area.

**Subwoofer Selection for High-End Systems**

Choosing the right subwoofer for a high-end system is crucial. The subwoofer should be of high quality, capable of delivering clean, tight bass that complements the main speakers. It should match the system not just in terms of power but also in sonic character.

**Calibrating Subwoofers for Vinyl Playback**

For vinyl enthusiasts, calibration becomes even more critical. The goal is to ensure that the subwoofers enhance the bass frequencies while retaining the analog warmth and richness of vinyl. This might involve fine-tuning crossover frequencies and volumes to ensure a seamless blend with the analog sound.

**Conclusion**

Adding subwoofers to a high-end audio system, whether it's a 2.1 or a 2.2 setup, requires thoughtful consideration and careful setup. The goal is to enhance the listening experience by extending the bass response without detracting from the purity and integrity of the high-end system. With the right approach, subwoofers can be a valuable addition to any high-end audio setup.

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Deciding on Subwoofer Use in High-End Audio Systems 2.1 or 2.2 Setup

Discover how adding a subwoofer in a 2.1 setup can enhance your audio experience with deeper, richer bass.


We're diving into the world of the Lyravox Karlmann Monolith – a monstrous speaker system designed to make your music feel like a live concert! Get ready, we'll discuss:

-   Thunderous bass so clean, you'll feel it in your chest, not your muddy living room floor.
-   Vocals and instruments so crisp, you might swear the band's playing right in front of you.
-   Sound that wraps around you, not just blasts you – think concert hall, not tinny earbuds.
-   The luxury tech and craftsmanship that goes into a speaker this epic.

Intrigued? Keep reading for the inside scoop....

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Audiophiles seeking the ultimate soundstage, behold the Lyravox Karlmann Monolith – a speaker system where cutting-edge tech meets refined craftsmanship. This monolith is a powerhouse built on one goal: to recreate the thrilling energy of a live performance in the comfort of your own space.

Let's start with the foundation: a potent 15-inch (38 cm) woofer. Don't let the size fool you – it's not there for muddy boom. This beast gets its precision punch from a meticulous Helmholtz resonance absorber, minimizing distortion and giving your bass that deep, controlled rumble that puts you right in the concert hall.

The mid-high frequencies get the star treatment too. Ceramic membranes, including a beautifully sculpted Accuton midrange driver, shimmer with detail. The stiffness and lightness of ceramic translate to stunning sonic clarity. Those soaring vocals and complex instrumentals shine as if the musicians are right there in the room.

Lyravox pushes the boundaries further with their advanced "ambience concept." A dipole magnetostat and ceiling-firing AMT tweeter cast a wide, enveloping soundfield. It's not just about pinpoint stereo sound, this setup adds a tangible sense of three-dimensional space that most speakers fall short of.

And then there's the build. Finely finished artificial stone isn't for vanity's sake – it battles resonance for ultimate sound purity. At a solid 113 kilograms, the Monolith stands firm, ensuring the drivers translate their energy into music, not wasted vibrations.

Inside, we find pure muscle: three Ncore amplifiers pump out 1,100 clean watts per channel. Think of them as effortless powerlifters for your sound, capable of reproducing the widest dynamic swings without breaking a sweat. Onboard electronics and a powerful DSP let you sculpt the sound for any room, making those final tweaks for pristine performance.

The Lyravox Karlmann Monolith isn't a flashy toy; it's a testament to audio excellence, born from a union of engineering and artistry. This is immersive, live-feeling sound reserved for the most passionate music lovers.

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Forget Stereo, This Speaker Brings a 3D Sound Experience: Lyravox Karlmann Monolith


Lyravox is a German audio manufacturer dedicated to pushing the boundaries of sonic performance and redefining the luxury listening experience. Their philosophy centers on a holistic approach to audio systems, blending cutting-edge technology, masterful craftsmanship, and a deep understanding of how we interact with music.

**What Sets Lyravox Apart**

-   **Authentic Live Sound:** Lyravox aims to transport you to the heart of a concert hall with speakers designed for deep, precise bass, stunningly clear mids and highs, and immersive, three-dimensional soundstages.
-   **Innovation meets Tradition:** Lyravox embraces both groundbreaking technologies like ceramic drivers and advanced DSP alongside meticulous cabinet construction techniques for superior acoustic performance.
-   **Luxury Without Compromise:** Each Lyravox system exudes quality. Handcrafted materials like fine artificial stone and elegant design seamlessly blend with high-performance components, making them centerpieces in sophisticated homes.
-   **User-Centric Design:** Lyravox recognizes modern lifestyles. Their systems offer convenient features like integrated electronics and room adaptation for customized sound that effortlessly fits your space.

**Lyravox is for those who...**

-   Demand the absolute best in sound reproduction.
-   Appreciate the marriage of technology and artistic design.
-   Desire an audio system that enhances their living space, not detracts from it.
-   Are ready to step beyond ordinary sound and into a musical experience.

Lyravox

Deep bass, crystal-clear vocals – the Karlmann Monolith is audiophile sound without the snobbery

The Karlmann Monolith speakers are high-end audio powerhouses crafted to transport you into a concert-like experience within your own space. This system blends cutting-edge audio technology with meticulous build quality for unparalleled sound reproduction.  Each massive speaker stands as a testament to audio artistry, promising deep, controlled bass, crystal-clear vocals, and a three-dimensional soundstage that envelops the listener.

Karlmann Monolith


In a significant move that's stirring excitement in the audiophile community, Aavik, the renowned Danish audio brand, has unveiled its latest masterpiece – the Aavik SD-880 Streaming DAC. As the newest member of its flagship 880 series, the SD-880 marks Aavik's ambitious foray into the streaming DAC market.

**Innovative Technology for Unparalleled Sound**

The Aavik SD-880 is distinguished by its revolutionary Non-switching Continuum Processing DAC technology. This in-house developed method dramatically transforms the digital-to-analog conversion process. By upsampling digital signals to an astounding 22 MHz, the Aavik SD-880 maintains a continuous analog waveform, effectively eliminating the digital artifacts that often mar digital audio sources.

**Design: A Fusion of Art and Engineering**

The design of the SD-880 is a testament to Aavik's commitment to both aesthetic elegance and functional excellence. The unit is encased in solid copper, with a unique sandwich construction at its base, integrating copper, compact laminate, and titanium layers to minimize resonance. This meticulous attention to detail extends to the inclusion of Tesla coil arrangements and Ansuz Darkz resonance control devices, ensuring an audio output that's as pure as it is powerful.

**Connectivity and Specifications**

Addressing the needs of modern audiophiles, the Aavik SD-880 comes equipped with a comprehensive array of digital inputs, including BNC S/PDIF, optical TOSLINK, and USB-B, alongside various output options. The device also features network connectivity via an Ethernet RJ45 port and USB-A ports for external drives.

**Weighty in Both Presence and Performance**

The Aavik SD-880 is as substantial in its physical presence as it is in its audio performance, weighing in at 33 kg. Its dimensions are 580 x 155 x 510 mm, making it a commanding presence in any high-end audio setup.

**Pricing and Availability**

Reflecting its top-tier status, the Aavik SD-880 is priced at $70,000 in the US and £67,000 in the UK. This positions it as a premium offering in the high-end audio market.

**Closing Thoughts**

With the launch of the SD-880, Aavik not only cements its place in the high-end audio market but also pushes the boundaries of what's possible in digital audio reproduction. The Aavik SD-880 is more than just a piece of equipment; it's an artistic statement in the world of audiophile technology.

Aavik-StreamerDAC880-Front_LowAngle_Total_HD-min.jpg

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Breaking the Bank for Sound Excellence Aavik SD-880 Priced at $70,000

Discover the Aavik SD-880 Streaming DAC: Revolutionary Non-switching Continuum Processing for unparalleled audio clarity

Amun Mk V

by Quadral

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Interesting articles

Deciding on Subwoofer Use in High-End Audio Systems 2.1 or 2.2 Setup

Forget Stereo, This Speaker Brings a 3D Sound Experience: Lyravox Karlmann Monolith

Breaking the Bank for Sound Excellence Aavik SD-880 Priced at $70,000