Ohm Microwalsh

[cornelius]

Recommending speakers is difficult, there isn't one model that will please everyone - but from what I've read on this site, these speakers may appeal to some of you. They're affordable, and I really believe that you'll have to spend a lot more for something better (the diminishing return thing that we've discussed here). I'm using these speakers in a 2 channel setup, but I can see the Microwalsh speakers working VERY well in home theatre.

- Ridiculous soundstage everywhere, AND natural sounding. Huge sweet spot, the sound isn't thrust at you, it fills the room! Also easy (for me) to position.
- Less intrusive physically - my fiance thought they were cute - half the size of my old towers.
- Excellent tonal balance. Since they're an in-home demo, I'm comparing them to some other speakers - there are no showroom-over-hyped frequencies to grab your attention.
- Nice workmanship. Walnut veneer finish looks great, super-dead-knuckle-test on the cabinet.
- Bass response is SURPRISINGLY low and tight. For H/T, a sub with these guys will be impressive.

For an in-depth review, go to
http://www.sixmoons.com/audioreviews/walsh/micro.html

Don't let their homespun looking website fool you. These are serious speakers. Although waiting for them to arrive isn't much fun, dealing with the guys at Ohm is. I think they get a lot of business word-of-mouth, so here ya go...

http://www.ohmspeakers.com/

[Rip Van Woofer]

I remember the Ohm F (?) from the 70's and how awed I was when I heard them in a showroom. The current models have gotten good reviews, and the Microwalsh (the tall one) was on my short list of speakers to try before I went DIY.

They make center-channel speakers and surrounds using Walsh drivers too that seem like an intriguing alternative to the usual choices.

And, they make conversion modules for older Ohms so you can update them with the latest drivers and crossovers! I think the current models are upgradeable, too, with the driver module mounted on a removable baffle.

There is a company in Germany called German Physiks making speakers with Walsh drivers too, but at oil-sheikh prices. Very nice cabinetry, though! (Google them and check out their site - it makes for good audio porn, at least) A guy I traded some correspondence with about audio who also writes a syndicated HT column told me he knew the GP rep here in the US -- and that the rep preferred (and owned) Ohms!

BTW, his Website is a pretty good resource for newbies if anyone is interested so here's the link: Multimedia Answers

[cornelius]

I have the short model - my listening space isn't overly large. Due to the design, the low cabinet really isn't a big factor, although I may still go for the talls.

Rip, what's your DIY speaker like?

[Rip Van Woofer]

Originally Posted by cornelius

Rip, what's your DIY speaker like?

Look here.

I am already planning their successors: an MTM version that Linkwitz calls the PMTM1 (another 8" woofer above the tweeter: a less expensive version of his Phoenix design that uses the less expensive Vifa drivers in my speakers instead of very expensive Scan-Speaks), biamped with active crossovers. No sub planned; it might not be necessary for my listening habits and room. Amps and crossovers will also be DIY based on plans and PCBs from Elliott Sound and Siegfried Linkwitz.

One of the current speakers will serve as the center channel when I finally join the 21st century. Surrounds to be determined.

[cornelius]

Nice, I'd like to try his designs sometime.