SME is a British manufacturer of high-end turntables and tonearms.

Tonarme

Recently, Focal caused a real stir at the CES 2024 show, presenting an updated line of its famous Aria series - Aria Evo X. Several models were presented from Aria Evo X N°1 to N°4, as well as a center speaker for home theaters. The main thing is to meet the needs of both movie lovers and true music lovers.

The main feature of the new series is the 'M'-shaped tweeter with an inverted TAM housing. This is a step forward compared to the old TNF tweeter and is designed to bring more clarity to the high frequency range - up to 30 kHz. For those who are not in the know, this means that the sound should be sharper and more detailed, especially on high notes.

The TMD® technology has also been added for the midrange range. Simply put, this technology is designed to reduce distortion and maintain a clean and balanced sound. It is like a guarantee that everything sounds exactly the way it should, without annoying noises or hum.

Focal did not stop at the sound and updated the appearance of the speakers. Now there is a Moss Green High Gloss finish, in addition to the classic black and walnut colors.

The Aria Evo X series continues to use the flax cone, a feature that Focal fans may remember from the Aria 900 series. This part is known for making the sound more natural, especially in the midrange and low frequency ranges.

Since its launch, the Aria Evo X series has generated a lot of interest among audiophiles and ordinary listeners. The new tweeter and its impact on sound quality are especially discussed. However, along with technological improvements came a price increase, and this has become a topic of discussion. Some are wondering if such a price hike is justified, especially when comparing these new models to previous versions of Aria or to products from other brands.

Screenshot 2024-01-16 at 18.39.28.png

Focal's Flax Cone Feature Takes Center Stage in Aria Evo X Series

Focal is a brand that specializes in high-fidelity audio equipment.

Focal

Aria Evo X integrates TMD technology for a perfectly balanced and distortion-free audio experience


### 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.

high-end audio setup featuring a single subwoofer alongside premium speakers and an amplifier.png

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.


This year marks a significant milestone for Krix, a stalwart in the world of high-fidelity sound, as it celebrates 50 years of reshaping auditory experiences. Established in 1974 in Adelaide, Australia, Krix has evolved from a passionate endeavor in a quaint town to a global leader in speaker design and manufacturing.

**The Humble Beginnings and the Dream of Superior Sound**

The narrative of Krix began with its founder, Scott Krix, an electronic engineering graduate with a fervent passion for music and sound. With a vision to create speakers that didn't merely reproduce sound but delivered an immersive auditory experience, Scott founded 'Krix Speaker Systems'. From the small town of Loxton, his ambitions were crafted into reality, setting the stage for a new era of audio excellence.

**Innovation and Expansion: Setting the Bar Higher**

Throughout the 1970s and '80s, Krix was at the forefront of audio innovation. The company introduced the revolutionary 'Home Grown' series, which quickly became a favorite among audiophiles. By the 1990s, Krix had expanded its reach far beyond Australian shores, establishing a presence in markets from New Zealand to Thailand.

One of the defining moments in the brand's history was achieving THX accreditation from LucasFilm for their cinema surround model, the KSX-1, in 1993. This accolade set a new standard for cinema sound quality and reinforced Krix's position as an industry leader.

**A Legacy of Quality and the Pursuit of Perfection**

Over the decades, Krix continued its relentless pursuit of perfection, introducing innovative product lines like the Series X in 2010. These specialized home cinema speakers brought the power and precision of commercial cinema audio into homes worldwide.

The brand's dedication to excellence is also reflected in its numerous patents, from acoustic horns to innovative mounting brackets, each representing a commitment to pushing the boundaries of sound technology.

**50 Years On: A Global Icon in Sound**

As Krix commemorates its 50th anniversary, its journey from a small Australian town to a globally recognized icon is a testament to its commitment to delivering exceptional sound experiences. Krix's speakers are now a fixture in over 4,000 cinemas across 40 countries and in the homes of discerning listeners worldwide.

Despite its global reach, Krix has retained its family-driven ethos, with its founding members still actively steering the company. The focus remains on innovating and manufacturing speakers that allow listeners to experience the magic of movies and music.

**The Future Resonates with Possibility**

Looking ahead, the past 50 years serve as a foundation for Krix's future endeavors. The brand continues to innovate, ensuring that each speaker that bears its name offers an unrivaled listening experience. For audiophiles around the world, Krix represents a journey in sound, a testament to the power of passion, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

As Krix commemorates this incredible milestone, the hi-fi community watches with anticipation for the next chapters of sonic brilliance. Here's to Krix, a name that will continue to resonate for generations to come. Happy 50th anniversary!

Acoustic-Foundry-700x459.jpg

Tradeshow-Image-700x474.jpg

Norway-Baffle-539x303.jpg

heretix-700x498.jpg

Phonix45-539x303.jpg

Quake-700x467.jpg

Celebrating 50 Years of Sonic Brilliance: Krix's Journey from 1974 to 2024

Krix is an audio brand known for manufacturing high-quality speakers and cinema loudspeaker systems.

Krix

From a small town in Adelaide to a global icon, discover Krix's 50 years of sonic brilliance

Tonarme

by SME

Start a thread

Interesting articles

Focal's Flax Cone Feature Takes Center Stage in Aria Evo X Series

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

Celebrating 50 Years of Sonic Brilliance: Krix's Journey from 1974 to 2024