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2 Attachment(s)
AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
After following the development, bothering Dave with many questions and reading reviews of the Sierra-2EX’s for the past 2 years, I’ve finally stepped away from my beloved Sierra-1 NrT’s of 10 years. Though very satisfied and happy with the NrT’s, as Dave and many others have stated…the Sierra-2EX’s are in a whole ‘nother league! Even the Sierra-2’s that I tried for 30 days didn’t fully accomplish what I wanted in my small dedicated near-field music room. However, the Sierra-2EX has surpassed even My long awaited expectations and more importantly, My Serious OCD ears!!! Many have written of their experiences and opinions on the 2EX with virtually 100% approvals. But if you are new to Ascend Acoustics ID audio speakers, or would simply like to read more glowing positive accolades…read on!
Brief personal background: I’ve studied classical piano for 10 years, have an instrumental music degree, have performed on most wind instruments and strings and have been an “Audiophile” for the past 45 years. I know and appreciate acoustical non-amplified music, with many exposures to LIVE orchestral, choral, keyboard, chamber, small wind ensemble and intimate jazz group performances…in simpler words, I know when reproduced music sounds Real! My recorded musical library includes a wide genre variety of musical taste, but 90% are geared towards acoustic instrumental, vocals and keyboard (including cathedral pipe organ)! For the past 10 years, I’ve developed reference recorded sources that are “high end”, offering me accurate evaluations and repeatability of every step of analysis, listening and performance of components (especially speakers). Okay, I know, this wasn’t very brief…I’ll move on!
The Ascend Acoustic Sierra-2EX: It would be Much easier (and faster) to simply state the negatives of the Sierra 2-EX…er, the only negative (besides waiting for 2 years) would be, They’re Not Free! Okay, that’s too easy, so I’ll start with what they do Well! The best opinion to offer and what my ears “hear” are they present Exactly what is in the recording, good or bad! I can listen for many hours to my great recorded library and never feel fatigued…just highly satisfied to the depths of my soul! They are very detailed and analytical, offering substantial precision and definition while always maintaining accurate musicality and realism!
No doubt (as Dave has stated many times), the Custom RAAL ribbon tweeters are one of the industries’ best transducers…Fast, Clear, Neutral and Precise…Most Natural cymbal, melodic percussion, keyboard and instrumental Tonalities I’ve ever Heard! The whisper of a breath, very low ambient background sounds of the venue, the superb clarity and separation of soloist/background vocals and the brilliant timbre of strings, woodwinds, brass and melodic percussion all come through with natural conviction, authority and realism. With the Custom 2EX Sierra midbass/woofer development (created to keep up with Sierra’s $3.5K Diamond Dome Tweeter in a Custom Sierra 2di configuration), credit Dave for acting on AA memberships’ request to pair this very special (and costly) Custom 6” EX woofer with the small Custom Sierra RAAL tweeter…a Match made in Audio Heaven (including Dave’s brilliant xover Magic)! Visceral impact throughout the bass/midrange is astounding and immersive. I’ve not experienced a S-2EX to RAAL-Tower comparison, but according to others who have, state the S-2EX is closer to the RAAL Towers than to the Sierra S-2…That about says it all!
Some other quick observations from my 100+ hours of listening these past few weeks:
Soundstage - can be HUGE, but depends on the recording. Not only is the center image locked in with perfect size, weight and pinpoint placement, but also easily floats in space between the LR channels and can also extend well beyond the listening setup walls. Again recording and genre dependent, the soundstage can easily extend 5-10ft outside of the side walls, 10-20ft above the 2EX placement and 5-30ft beyond the back listening wall for an Amazing Stereo 3D Presentation (very holographic). This large soundstage places instruments and vocals in their proper place and size with respect to the recorded venue, space and miking techniques. Separation of harmonies, textures and space stays locked in and assist in the 2EX monitors Completely Disappearing…you visually See Speakers, but hear Music, just glorious natural MUSIC!
Balance – The 2EX has powerful, articulate, fast and deep bass (full range, seems to extend flat down to 35Hz in my room) that for most music, could be all you desire. Punch you in the chest is very high, with no boom or hangover ring. Midrange fidelity and clarity are also a huge step-up from the Sierra-1, rendering vocals with new details I've not heard before from my music library! However, I do have the 2EX high passed at 50hz with a very well integrated and musical powered sub low passed at 50hz to cover the bottom 1 ¼ octaves (my preference for orchestral and pipe organ music). Overall, the RAAL blends seamlessly with the EX to create a 1-point source wall of sound that Defies their diminutive size and prowess.
Dynamics – Even though not as efficient as the S1-Nrt or the S-2, the 2EX seems to easily play greater dynamic peaks without Ever sounding harsh, strained or distorted…my SWAG being in the range of 3-5db more listenable volume! This translates into less compression and offers more realistic live performances. Energy and emotional transference of the music’s spirit is a forte of the 2EX, sounding live with involuntary toe-tapping rhythmic involvement and peak jaw dropping surprises. Throughout the full bandwidth, Micro and Macro dynamics are simple superb, translating into equal listener satisfaction, no matter the volume playback chosen! Faithful to the music, delicate soft passages have pristine openness and clarity, then in similar fashion, crescendos take my breath away as I recover from the excitement of the uncompressed moment!
Professional Monitor? – IMHO-YES! The Ascend Acoustic Sierra 2EX's offer a critical and accurate window not only into the music, but also the recorded venue, the medium (mics, mixing, etc.) and the energy and soul of the performers. They add nothing to the presentation but musical truth, thus could easily be declared worthy of professional studio mixing task! But wait, look at the high quality inert laminated bamboo build, possibly the best transducers on the market and fused with high end crossover components…easily worthy of a retail value 4X+ the asking price! How does Dave do it? Don’t know, but decided to pick up this value deal before Ascend goes up on their prices!!!
More descriptives, superlatives or praises…nah, this review is long enough! If you want to hear what I and others hear from the engineers at Ascend Acoustics, get a pair to try for 30-days…believe you’ll find like me, these are Definite Keepers!
Ted
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
Nice write-up, Ted.
Emotiva USP-1/UPA-1 - nice combo - I used to have same in my office, although sold both some time ago when I took down office set up (now just stream from computer).
No worries about stacking electronics on the sub?
Robert
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
Quote:
Originally Posted by
racrawford65
Nice write-up, Ted.
Emotiva USP-1/UPA-1 - nice combo - I used to have same in my office, although sold both some time ago when I took down office set up (now just stream from computer).
No worries about stacking electronics on the sub?
Robert
Thanks Robert!
Surprisingly, I’ve no vibration or feedback issues. My listening room is 10ft x 9ft and am able to easily energize my intimate near-field listening space with 106db+ dynamic peaks without clipping, feedback or strain (20hz-28Khz)! The sub cabinet is built with 1" mdf...heavy, but solid and easily supports the weight of the stacked components (these anyway)! A few years ago I was experiencing some resonant RF electrical feedback, but found remediation with much higher quality shielded interconnects!
Ted
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
thanks, Ted.
Makes me wonder if I could use my Rythmik's as a "shelf", if needed. At least for solid state gear - I'd be hesitant to put my tube stuff on top of one of the subs.
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
Quote:
Originally Posted by
racrawford65
Makes me wonder if I could use my Rythmik's as a "shelf", if needed. At least for solid state gear - I'd be hesitant to put my tube stuff on top of one of the subs.
I have a lava lamp sitting on my Rythmik F15HP. :)
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
Quote:
Originally Posted by
curtis
I have a lava lamp sitting on my Rythmik F15HP. :)
Curtis...Does it sound BOOMIE? :rolleyes: :o
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
Quote:
Originally Posted by
curtis
I have a lava lamp sitting on my Rythmik F15HP. :)
Not one of the new Anthems? Although, why am I not surprised about the lava lamp?
Just kidding, Curtis!
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
Quote:
Originally Posted by
theophile
Curtis...Does it sound BOOMIE? :rolleyes: :o
Ha!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
racrawford65
Not one of the new Anthems? Although, why am I not surprised about the lava lamp?
Just kidding, Curtis!
LOL!
Audio purchases are on hold until my GF and I settle on and buy a house.
That said, I’m very interested in the new Anthems. I really enjoy my AVM 60. For the new Anthems I’m interested in how Roon will be implemented.
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
Nice review Ted! I debated between upgrading my existing Sierra1's, buying a fresh set of Sierra2ex's and the Towers - I ended up choosing the Towers only because my listening area is pretty large. I will say that I am extremely happy that I got the RAAL upgrade - those tweeters are magical. Your system looks great - love the pics....Jim
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
Wonderful review and thank you! So pleased that you are enjoying the Sierra-2EX!!
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
Quote:
Originally Posted by
davef
Wonderful review and thank you! So pleased that you are enjoying the Sierra-2EX!!
Thank You, Dave, for offering audiophiles a monitor that has such precision in recorded medium playback as to allow music to effortlessly flow to the heart...Bravo!!! :cool:
Ted
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
Quote:
Originally Posted by
curtis
Ha!
LOL!
Audio purchases are on hold until my GF and I settle on and buy a house.
That said, I’m very interested in the new Anthems. I really enjoy my AVM 60. For the new Anthems I’m interested in how Roon will be implemented.
I'm interested in the new Anthems, as well. Perhaps the AVM70 to go fully separate or move to the MRX740. Don't need 15 channels. Not as concerned about music since I am picking up a separate preamp for 2 channel. Using the 740, I can power my center, two surrounds, and 4 ATMOS heights and eliminate one amp (currently using the 720 to power center and 2 surrounds and a separate 4 channel for ATMOS). Really like the looks of the new Anthems. But not pulling the trigger anytime soon - upgrading my tonearm first and then will wait until Anthem works out the bugs with Genesis and adds the new HDMI board before considering this upgrade.
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
Quote:
Originally Posted by
jimlucci
Nice review Ted! I debated between upgrading my existing Sierra1's, buying a fresh set of Sierra2ex's and the Towers - I ended up choosing the Towers only because my listening area is pretty large. I will say that I am extremely happy that I got the RAAL upgrade - those tweeters are magical. Your system looks great - love the pics....Jim
Hi Jim,
Your review of the RAAL-Towers was wonderful. Believe for your 3200cf listening room, you made a perfect choice! I've no doubt Dave's Towers would be extremely competitive with Any in the marketplace today, at Any price! :o
For my 990cf listening room, can't imagine Any 1cf Monitor made that would sound better!!!
IMHO, Ascend Acoustics=Best speaker value on the Planet! :cool:
Ted
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
Quote:
Originally Posted by
racrawford65
...Makes me wonder if I could use my Rythmik's as a "shelf", if needed. At least for solid state gear - I'd be hesitant to put my tube stuff on top of one of the subs.
Robert,
Bet with the solid cabinet construction of the Rythmik Subs, probably be safe to use the top as a shelf for even tube electronics. If not, maybe a product like These would guarantee acoustic vibration isolation!
Ted
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
thanks, Ted. I was able to reorganize my equipment in current entertainment center so no need to use either Rythmik as a shelf.
I've never used any Herbie's products for isolation. I've been using Symposium stuff for several years - was really sold when I put a Segue ISO under my TT and it eliminated all feedback.
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
Very nice review, with your credentials I can't think of a more worthy recommendation. Your descriptions put into words exactly what I hear and what I feel when I listen to my EXs which I have in a dedicated stereo bedroom system. I have no pipe organ music, I really can't see the reason to complicate this particular configuration with a sub, and I truly love and appreciate low bass. Again, awesome review, well said!
Jay
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
Quote:
Originally Posted by
petmotel
Very nice review, with your credentials I can't think of a more worthy recommendation. Your descriptions put into words exactly what I hear and what I feel when I listen to my EXs which I have in a dedicated stereo bedroom system. I have no pipe organ music, I really can't see the reason to complicate this particular configuration with a sub, and I truly love and appreciate low bass. Again, awesome review, well said!
Jay
Thanks Jay, appreciate your nice comments! :o
Yep, the Sierra-2EX Are Very Special!! However FWIW, adding a sub provided me with three big advantages:
1. Solid 18Hz performance that gives depth, realism and venue ambiance to most acoustical genre.
2. Expands Midrange clarity due to 6" bass driver relieved from full range reproduction.
3. Greatly increases the Main Power amp headroom (with a >50Hz high pass to the 2EX), thus increased dynamic peaks for all music genre.
IMHO, the audible advantages of a well-integrated musical sub with a 2-way stand-mount monitor is Very Noticeable and Appreciated! Thus, with the Sierra-2EX I first experimented with "full range" (no sub). They simply are amazing as they do provide room energizing sound without breaking a sweat and can easily handle dynamic peaks with finesse and grace! They certainly outperform Anything I've heard these past 45 years (as an audiophile with a music degree) in their price range!!
That said, I then incorporated the 12" 500W Axiom powered sub into the mix. I began at the 80Hz high/low pass settings, but eventually settled on a high pass/low pass of 50Hz. This gave me the best integration, seamless hand-off and low bass tonality, as I took full advantage of the 2EX Seas 6" Curvy woofer/mid-bass prowess and speed! I've greatly increased clean, dynamic, effortless peaks in all my music listening, midrange clarity and definition has certainly expanded. Soundstage has opened up and become even better defined and an energized room of 18Hz to 28KHz wall-of-sound allows the speakers to Totally Disappear and immerse my listening experience with all genre of live, realistic Soul Filling Recorded Music!!!
Love the 2EX full range...I do, but a properly integrated sub can bring some nice additional surprises!! ;)
Ted
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
I am in complete agreement on using a properly integrated sub(s) with any system.
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
Ted, you've not written a single thing in this thread I disagree with. I have three different systems with AA speakers, a theater system, a system in a good sized shop building, and a bedroom system. Two of the three have SVS ultras doing exactly as you describe. Maybe down the road I might add a sub to the dedicated stereo system, but it sure ain't a slouch as is!
Jay
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review
Quote:
Originally Posted by
petmotel
Ted, you've not written a single thing in this thread I disagree with. I have three different systems with AA speakers, a theater system, a system in a good sized shop building, and a bedroom system. Two of the three have SVS ultras doing exactly as you describe. Maybe down the road I might add a sub to the dedicated stereo system, but it sure ain't a slouch as is!
Jay
Thanks Jay...Sounds like you have All your spaces Nicely Covered! ;)
Bet a Rythmik L12 would work perfectly with your S-2EX...might have to try "2" for a 2.2 music room myself!!
FWIW, your 2-04-20 Sierra-2EX review inspired me to get my 2EX in March (the sale also had a little to do with that)...Thanks for your detailed and wonderful write up! :cool:
Ted
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
Sierra-2EX...Progress moving forward!!
After my eldest did critical listening to the previous reviewed 2.1 setup (see 1st pic), he noted that the soundstage wasn't as deep and high as the previous S2-NrT listening sessions (I had to agree). The NrT's were tilted back 5 degrees, allowing expansion of the soundstage in my 11ft ceiling, creating a very nice sudo-venue openness and expansion!
However, instead of tilting the 2EX (due to narrower vertical expansion), decided to "finally" relocate the sub cabinet to the left front corner...had to re-tune the sub (LP Crossover to 60hz-Trim to full-Volume reset down to 5-oclock...was at 6-oclock). I dropped (set) the components onto a temporary "mini rack" (step stool-pic #2) and have a nice permanent 4-shelf audio rack on order!!
After all was tuned and complete, The New Sound...well, excuse my Italian, Ho.. Sh..!!! :) WOW! Sub Bass management has returned to my prior setup (was always happy with it), but the 8" lowering of the component stack has created even better focus, image precision, wider soundstage and a Huge Increase in venue depth and height. But more importantly, warmth/detailed/refined/natural Midrange is showing a Beautiful Renaissance! I am hearing details and low level nuances in all of my music that I never heard before...it is truly Amazing to me and a Very Surprising revelation! :o
All I can figure is that the component stack I had on top the subwoofer cabinet was causing 2nd reflections and cancellations that diluted the EX mid-woofer Midrange prowess capability?!? Although it was sounding great before the changes, the 2EX has taken a giant leap forward in realistic, live sound presentation that consistently leaves me short of breath and yearning/needing to re-hear my large music genre CD collection!!:cool:
Who'd a thunk it! Now to re-spin my 400+ CD's!!!! :D
Ted
https://i.postimg.cc/GTKwJGC1/IMG-7930.jpg https://i.postimg.cc/dZ0SFdGn/IMG-7985.jpg https://i.postimg.cc/9wtX66ty/IMG-7983.jpg
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
theophile
Sierra-2EX...Progress moving forward!!
After my eldest did critical listening to the previous reviewed 2.1 setup (see 1st pick), he noted that the soundstage wasn't as deep and high as the previous S2-NrT listening sessions (I had to agree). The NrT's were tilted back 5 degrees, allowing expansion of the soundstage in my 11ft ceiling, creating a very nice sudo-venue openness and expansion!
However, instead of tilting the 2EX (due to narrower vertical expansion), decided to "finally" relocate the sub cabinet to the left front corner...had to re-tune the sub (LP Crossover to 60hz-Trim to full-Volume reset down to 5-oclock...was at 6-oclock). I dropped (set) the components onto a temporary "mini rack" (step stool-pic#2) and have a nice permanent 4-shelf audio rack on order!!
After all was tuned and complete, The New Sound...well, excuse my Italian, Ho.. Sh..!!! :) WOW! Sub Bass management has returned to my prior setup (was always happy with it), but the 8" lowering of the component stack has created even better focus, image precision, wider soundstage and a Huge Increase in venue depth and height. But more importantly, warmth/detailed/refined/natural Midrange is showing a
Beautiful Renaissance! I am hearing details and low level nuances in all of my music that I never heard before...it is truly Amazing to me and a Very Surprising revelation! :o
All I can figure is that the component stack I had on top the subwoofer cabinet was causing 2nd reflections and cancellations that diluted the EX mid-woofer Midrange prowess capability?!? Although it was sounding great before the changes, the 2EX has taken a giant leap forward in realistic, live sound presentation that consistently leaves me short of breath and yearning/needing to re-hear my large music genre CD collection!!:cool:
Who'd a thunk it! Now to re-spin my 400+ CD's!!!! :D
Ted
https://i.postimg.cc/GTKwJGC1/IMG-7930.jpg https://i.postimg.cc/dZ0SFdGn/IMG-7985.jpg https://i.postimg.cc/9wtX66ty/IMG-7983.jpg
Good deal! I had those WoodTech/MetalTech stands for my speakers...... 30" tall model, before getting my 26" tall Sanus steel foundation stands!
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Mag_Neato
Good deal! I had those WoodTech/MetalTech stands for my speakers...... 30" tall model, before getting my 26" tall Sanus steel foundation stands!
Thanks Ed!
I ended up with a very simple but nice Monoprice Monolith 4-shelf audio rack...solid and very functional. However, the 23.5" shelf widths played havoc with the soundstage depth and height when set in-between the Sierra2-EX! I was able to stretch out the right 10ft speaker wire and set the new rack somewhat near the left wall (under my double french door windows). With nothing-but-air between the 2EX monitors, achieved Another WOW Moment!!! :o
Currently have new 12 gauge oxygen free copper wire on order and will terminate with my high-end banana plugs and get the new rack arrangement all the way against the left side wall. Once set-up is complete, will provide more comments on the overall sound changes and of course, obligatory new pics! :cool:
Ted
https://i.postimg.cc/30d9HV6Q/IMG-7999.jpg
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1 Attachment(s)
Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
Here's my little stack..... Pangea Vulcan rack in carbon fiber.
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
Ted, is the rest of the room as barren as the pictures portray? If so, I am wondering what some first reflection point damping might do to even further the sound quality?
Jay
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1 Attachment(s)
Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
petmotel
Ted, is the rest of the room as barren as the pictures portray? If so, I am wondering what some first reflection point damping might do to even further the sound quality?
Jay
Jay,
For the most part, Yes! My dedicated small 2-channel listening environment has presented some challenges. The room's left side (10ft L) has a glassed half-moon transom with doubled glass paneled false french doors. To the right are bi panel closet doors and the 32" entry way that oppose the french door exterior wall (see pics). The room's 9ft Width on one end host the monitors and sub, with the opposing 9ft wall housing the listening love seat. It is a 90sf/990cf music room with overall dimensions of 9'W x 10'L x 11'H...a little cramped, but does provide a wonderful quasi-near field presentation! Other than paintings [and the framed "1911 Conservatory of Lavenir, Paris, France- recognition letter for their Classical Pianoforte Course-Honors of completion to my Grandmother :cool:], the equipment and listening 9ft walls are sheetrock finishes! As per this overall minimalistic room decor, surprisingly I have neither too live or too dead of room acoustics, exhibiting virtually no echo or reverb. Believe this overall contributes enough diffraction and absorption to enhance the "Huge Venue Presentations" found in my diverse library of music genre...just the way I like my room acoustics! :)
Last year, I experimented with four 2" X 2ft square GIK Acoustiscs-2A Alpha Diffusor/Absorber panels. After a full month and many hours of room placements and detailed listening sessions (trials on every wall surface and about every configuration I could come up with), I returned the panels. I simply could not Improve any facet of the soundstage presentation, nor any areas of the room's acoustics that I enjoyed in my sweet listening spot! As stated in post#23, setting the new component rack under the double french door/windows to the left exterior wall (zero eq. interference between the 2EX) appears to eliminate any damaging first reflections, creating what I believe will settle out to be the best my small intimate music room is capable of! :D
Now, just awaiting arrival of new longer speaker wire to finish the audio component rack relocation task! ;)
Ted
https://i.postimg.cc/NLtVfcMT/IMG-8016.jpg https://i.postimg.cc/rd80wsv3/IMG-8015.jpg
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Mag_Neato
Here's my little stack..... Pangea Vulcan rack in carbon fiber.
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Mag_Neato
Here's my treated room!
Ed,
I did look at the Pangea Vulcan 4-shelf audio rack (also in CF)...it is Very Nice! However, if I ever wanted to add a shelf to house a smaller sub behind each 2-EX stand (original plans that aren't in the trash just yet), I needed a shelf depth that was 3" less. In my situation, the Monolith meet this criteria!
YES, another Dedicated music room! :cool:
Bet the 2EX sound awesome there!!! :D
Ted
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
theophile
Ed,
I did look at the Pangea Vulcan 4-shelf audio rack (also in CF)...it is Very Nice! However, if I ever wanted to add a shelf to house a smaller sub behind each 2-EX stand (original plans that aren't in the trash just yet), I needed a shelf depth that was 3" less. In my situation, the
Monolith meet this criteria!
YES, another Dedicated music room! :cool:
Bet the 2EX sound awesome there!!! :D
Ted
Yes, they do sound awesome!
Sounds like you found the right rack for your application. I lucked out and bought the Pangea 2nd hand from a buddy who is always changing things in his system. Nearly bought a pair of mono block amps from him once.
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Mag_Neato
...Sounds like you found the right rack for your application. I lucked out and bought the Pangea 2nd hand from a buddy who is always changing things in his system. Nearly bought a pair of mono block amps from him once.
Quote:
Originally Posted by
theophile
Now, just awaiting arrival of new longer speaker wire to finish the audio component rack relocation task! ;)
Ted
Ed,
Yep, the Monolith component rack is working out nicely (see pics)!
Got in the new KnuKoncepts 12ga 100% OFC speaker Wire (50' Roll) and relocated the new rack to the left wall. Started with 2-25ft speaker wire lengths and got about 150 hrs break in time over the 1st week (music playing round-the-clock)! Switching out and comparing with my prior 35 yr old shorter (10ft) 12ga 100% OFC speaker cable (Monster Pro HR), the KK bass tightness-depth-tonality took 24 hours to blossom, however midrange took another 24 hrs to become sweet and lucid! Top end smoothness/trainsients to the RAALs didn't return until 100 hours of music break-in!! On Friday (150 hrs), I trimmed the 25ft lengths into 14ft (left 2EX) and 19ft (right 2EX) lengths.
At 200 hours, top to bottom bandwidth has matured Very Nicely, but the overall very precise and detailed soundstage is still somewhat collapsed, as compared to the well broken in 10ft Monster Pros!! The Monster cable creates a Huge Depth in Soundstage (like 15th row seats, with 30-50ft venue depth vs the KK at 3rd row seating with 15-20ft venue depth). The deeper soundstage Immediately draws me into the music emotionally with a very relaxed sensation of being in the venue (Live, immersed in the music), whereas the shallower soundstage initially sounds very impressive with a slight edge of more detail and resolution, but at the expense of becoming emotionally uninvolved with the performance (Sterile and detached)!! Given more playing time, we'll "hear" if the KK cables can come around!
FWIW, I've ordered some high-end speaker cables (SP4) from Morrow Audio to try! Hopefully they can meet (or even surpass) the musical performance of my old "tried but true" too-short MC cables!?! With a 60 day return policy, again will have the opportunity to really "Hear" if differences are worth the investment $$$! :confused:
Ted
https://i.postimg.cc/yk0zNTwF/IMG-8021.jpg https://i.postimg.cc/nMBHsZmj/IMG-8031.jpg https://i.postimg.cc/fJFyX5Lk/IMG-8046.jpg https://i.postimg.cc/ZBVKqx2b/IMG-8050.jpg
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
Never heard Morrow cables so will be interested in your impressions.
I generally use blue jeans cables (as interconnects in "less critical" - to me - applications, eg, AVR to ATMOS amp), blue jeans speaker cables, and for more critical connections, AudioSensibility.
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
theophile
*the KnuKoncepte bass tightness-depth-tonality took 24 hours to blossom...
*midrange took 48 hrs to become sweet and lucid...
*Top end smoothness/trainsients to the RAALs didn't return until 100 hours of music break-in...!!
*At 200 hours, top to bottom bandwidth has matured Very Nicely, but the overall very precise and detailed soundstage is still somewhat collapsed, as compared to the well broken in 10ft Monster Pros...
Quote:
Originally Posted by
racrawford65
Never heard Morrow cables so will be interested in your impressions.
I generally use blue jeans cables (as interconnects in "less critical" - to me - applications, eg, AVR to ATMOS amp), blue jeans speaker cables, and for more critical connections, AudioSensibility.
Robert,
At 250+ hours, the KK cables are starting to really become “Musical”! They have increased their Soundstage Depth presentation to almost Exactly match the Monster Pro’s! Additionally, I’m now hearing more nuisances, detail, resolution and greater air/openness/less veiling in the midrange and treble bandwidths throughout all of my well known music genre (without any hint of edginess, harshness or additional brightness)! Bass tonality, speed and punch has also improved!! Overall, my “emotional involvement” with my music has grown exponentially and now seems to have surpassed my old tried & true Monster reference cables!
I still have the Morrow Audio cables (SP4) coming in to try for a 60 day trial period! I've looked at the Blue Jeans Canare 4S11 "star quad" 14-gauge cable, with four conductors together in one outer jacket and set up as a single-wired connector, each then becoming an 11 gauge + or - cable run! Will consider these if the Morrow SP4's high-end (and $$$$) cables don't knock my socks off!! :rolleyes:
Ted
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
thanks for the updates, Ted.
Maybe I'll try a set of the KK's one of these days.
Next on my list to purchase is a degritter ultrasonic record cleaner to replace my vinyl stack/cheap Ultrasonic set up.
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
racrawford65
thanks for the updates, Ted.
Maybe I'll try a set of the KK's one of these days.
Next on my list to purchase is a degritter ultrasonic record cleaner to replace my vinyl stack/cheap Ultrasonic set up.
Quote:
Originally Posted by
theophile
...I still have the Morrow Audio cables (SP4) coming in to try for a 60 day trial period! I've looked at the
Blue Jeans Canare 4S11 "star quad" 14-gauge cable, with four conductors together in one outer jacket and set up as a single-wired connector, each then becoming an 11 gauge + or - cable run! Will consider these if the Morrow SP4's high-end (and $$$$) cables don't knock my socks off!! :rolleyes:
Ted
Robert,
Well, after about 300 hrs of break-in, I've changed my impressions of the KnuKoncepts 12Ga OFC speaker Cables. Overall, they have presented limitations that aren't musical. Dynamics are somewhat compressed, as they aren't "live sounding" at low volumes, but when pushed with realistic listening concert volumes, become somewhat edgy and dry, not as open and smooth as my original Monster Pro High Res cables!
Still awaiting the Morrow SP4 cables (due the week of the 26th). So, I ordered the in stock BJC Canare 4S11 Star Quad cables from Amazon. I was somewhat dejected upon their arrival, as they are a stiffer and larger diameter speaker cable than what I'm use to, but wait, where in the heck did my S-2EX Go????????????:confused:
I'm immediately hearing background nuisances, inner details and venue sounds that weren't in my recordings before. Soundstage depth and height has grown even larger with 3D air around vocalist and instrumentalist. A veil, one I never felt existed, has been lifted and Clarity, Redolution and Realism has taken a quantum leap into the High-End Realm! In my music library, cymbals, clapping, string bowing and many other micro details have appeared more real than I've previously experienced. Vocals, as an emotional and diverse instrument, have taken on a new reality (can hear everything). Bass attacks, punch, timbre, tonality and speed has become Superb and grown exponentially (just thought I had great bass before). Overall, Micro and Macro Dynamics have increased and presentation has become very much more musical. Come now, where did my 2EX go??????! :rolleyes:
No kidding, the new BJC Canare 4S11 speaker cables have made my Sierra 2EX Monitors sound like they were given a hefty dose of Steriods, like a purchase of new higher end Monitors!! If I added all of the positives of my old Monster Cables and the new KnuKoncepts speaker cable, I'd Still not come close to what these Canare cables have shown me and if I could cancel my Morrow Audio SP4 speaker cable order, I would...Period! But they are already built and paid for and should be arriving in the next 2 weeks. I just can't wrap my head around the Morrows (@ 10X the price) out performing these Made-In-Japan speaker cables, but will have 60 days to try! It ought to be Very Interesting! ;)
FWIW, after conversing with my friend and audiophile buddy of 47 years, he ordered the BJC Canare 4S11 cables and after 5 minutes of listening, called me proclaiming, "WOW-Ho..Sh..-WOW"...BEST $100 I've EVER Spent on Stereo Gear...These ARE NOT Going Back...Can't believe what I've been missing"! :cool:
Ted
https://i.postimg.cc/rzz03T30/Canare...Sp-Cable-7.jpg https://i.postimg.cc/bZYTmJwF/Canare...Sp-Cable-8.jpg
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
Years ago, I made my own cables with Canare 4S11. I used them with my CMT-340SEs. I terminated them for bi-wiring. I re-terminated for non bi-wire after getting my Sierra-1's. I think I still have them in the garage somewhere.
When I got my Sierra-2's, I wanted to have the same cable for L/C/R, so I went with BJC's Beldon cable with ultrasonically welded locking bananas for all three.
Honestly, I hear no difference.
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
Thanks, Ted, for the update.
Curtis answered my question regarding difference between the Belden and Canare cables.
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
curtis
Years ago, I made my own cables with Canare 4S11. I used them with my CMT-340SEs. I terminated them for bi-wiring. I re-terminated for non bi-wire after getting my Sierra-1's. I think I still have them in the garage somewhere.
When I got my Sierra-2's, I wanted to have the same cable for L/C/R, so I went with BJC's Beldon cable with ultrasonically welded locking bananas for all three.
Honestly, I hear no difference.
Good to hear "no differences", Curtis...Thanks!
Maybe, the "non-welded" conductors of the 4S11 sound equal to the "sonic-welded" conductors of the Beldon cables?!? :confused: Jeff at BJC has stated receiving many comments (similar to mine) from users who have stepped up from the Beldon welded to the 4S11 welded cables?!?
My BJC very upbeat findings and comments (post#34) come after using other 12 Ga OFC cables that are terminated with regular Sewel compression Deadbolt bananas. Believe I currently have a better Synergistic Match using the Canare 4S11 Star Quad cables (also ultrasonically welded conductors to locking banana connectors) between my power amp and the 2EX!?! :)
Ted
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
My only reason for going for the welded is durability, and I didn't want to mess with the compression connections any longer, and the locking bananas. I think the gauge was thicker overall, too
And...too lazy to make cables. :)
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
theophile
No kidding, the new BJC Canare 4S11 speaker cables have made my Sierra 2EX Monitors sound like they were given a hefty dose of Steriods, like a purchase of new higher end Monitors!! If I added all of the positives of my old Monster Cables and the new KnuKoncepts speaker cable, I'd Still not come close to what these Canare cables have shown me and if I could cancel my Morrow Audio SP4 speaker cable order, I would...Period! But they are already built and paid for and should be arriving in the next 2 weeks. I just can't wrap my head around the Morrows (@ 10X the price) out performing these Made-In-Japan speaker cables, but will have 60 days to try! It ought to be Very Interesting! ;)
FWIW (imagine I'm sounding like a broken record...heck, I am a Stereo Audiophile :rolleyes:), but Hearing is Believing! I received the Morrow Audio SP4 speaker cables on 7/26 and have had them cooking with music 24/7 since (now over 400 hours of break-in). They Are the Keepers...sent back the Canares! The Morrows (to Me) are worth 5X the price (50%-sale) of the Canare S411 cables!!! :)
They take all of the positive sonic qualities of my previous cable usages (30 Yr 10Ga Monster Pros, 12 Ga OFC KnuKoncepts, Blue Jeans 11Ga Canare 4S11) and Step-Up the LIVE music reproduction presentation with Improvements in:
1. Soundstage depth (recording dependent) 10 to 20 feet deeper than any of the above speaker cables.
2. Soundstage Pinpoint focus, with much greater air and separation of vocals, instrumentals, strings, keyboard and small ensembles.
3. Venue accuracy, ambiance and spaciousness with tremendous width, depth and height.
4. Balance of an extremely natural, open and live 3D Holographic presentation.
5. Excellence in micro/macro dynamics.
6. Extremely accurate timbres/tonalities/resolutions.
7. Superb attack/sustained/decay articulations.
8. Full Bandwidth precision and balance-Nothing is missing.
9. Make my Highly-Resolving 2EX Sing with Very Musical, Realistic and Live-You-Are-There Presentations.
10. Relaxed and Smooth Aura of Sound that allows for Hours of continuous non-fatiguing listening sessions.
11. More Naturally Allows the music to become an effortless, immersive and engaging experience.
12. Ease of system/speakers disappearing with only the Music to Enjoy!
Overall, I find myself toe-tapping and listening to every bar of music on each CD as I hear and feel what the musicians intended to impart in their creative art of music! Often, my mind is Blown, because What I See (my room and my components) versus What I Hear (Live Venue Performances) are in such stark contrast, the goose bumps, breath catching and sometimes tears just flow!!
Seems now, I can just enjoy and relish the emotional art my full musical library genre presents without any thought or interference from my “Stereo Setup” (With Thanks to Ascend Acoustics)!!! :cool:
Ted
https://i.postimg.cc/3dnnS5b6/IMG-8188.jpg
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Re: AA Sierra-2EX Monitor Review-Times a Changing!!
Nice review, Ted.
So tempted to order a pair but currently need to resist spending more money on A/V equipment as I recently picked up a Degritter (very impressed by this machine and how well it cleans vinyl) and ordered a SPEC AP-UD1 turntable "mat" from Japan which should be here next week.