Axiom M80 v. Onix Rocket Strata

[HTHOLIC]

Hey audioholics, I am looking for a set a full-range speakers because all I have are 7 bookshelfs and a very good sub, but I figure that a full-range speaker can be used for small parties and the like and great for 2-channel.

I don't like it when prices are very expensive for the value which is why I often look to axiom audio for products. I am thinking of getting the m80 instead of the strata becuase onix will charge a lot of shipping, and I don't like the fact that they want to charge $2,000 in a couple months- a $500 price hike.

I understand the onix strata probably has more of the low-end bass(but my svs pc plus subwoofer would handle thta), but cost is a factor. One reason I may go with the strata is because it has real rosewood and it seems to be bigger becaue of all thos woofers and tweeters(Drivers).

I would really love your thoughts, consider this as of jan 2007- the strata may cost $2200 with shipping, nearly twice the axiom m80's assuming axiom doesn't raise the price much,nevermind that axiom gives you a 5% discount for 5 items, and if you buy used you can get an additioanl 10% off along with free shipping by fedex.

 

[Pianoman84d]

Be aware that shipping may be more than $200... The Minis are heavy!! That said, it depends what you are looking for. The Minis have been described in numerous threads on the av123 forum as an amazing stereo speaker. Comparable to many very expensive designs. e.g., a fellow there has them replacing his Martin Logan Summits for a bit, and is satisfied (note that he is not permanently replacing them, just giving the ML's a break for a bit). What I'm getting at is that I feel the M80s will not be as refined (but they shouldn't be for approximately 1/2 the price). How close the Axioms will get you, I don't know. Its up to you to decide what you want. I don't think any of use can tell you whether the increased cost for the Minis is worth it to you.

Another consideration is that the Mini has no potential to be a HT speaker b/c there are no plans (IIRC) for a matching center or surrounds. That may affect your decision as well.

In closing, I'm planning on getting some minis eventually. Right now, I don't have the room. Good luck!!

 

[billnchristy]

The price hike is explained by Mark in a thread over there.

Right now they are not making enough money on these things, their componentry is better than originally planned for quality purposes and MLS stuck to the price he said they would release at because he is a man of his word. Instead of worrying about a $500 increase feel good that you can get it for that much less right now...

In fact, consider the 2k price the base price and right now you can get:

Minis and SP3 tube amp for 1995
or Minis in piano finishes for 100 less!

Everyone is saying these are a steal at 2k, I would love to have a set, but I have decided to build my "ultimate" speaker instead.

Good luck on your hunt.

 

[jcPanny]

Apples and Oranges

HT,
The Strata Mini's are designed to be an intimate 2 channel speaker. If a significant portion of your time is spent listening to 2-ch music, then go for the mini's with the SP3 tube amp for $2k.

If you are looking for an HT speaker, then check out the Onix Rocket line or the Axioms. You can usually get some good deals on the Rockets on their B-stock page or the Classified forum.

 

[TABCON]

I have the Axom's, and I find them to be fantastic.

I listened to a ton of speakers, the only ones better costs way more money. For the price, the Axioms are a sure bet.

Tab

 

[emorphien]

e.g., a fellow there has them replacing his Martin Logan Summits for a bit, and is satisfied (note that he is not permanently replacing them, just giving the ML's a break for a bit).

Is that the setup where the speakers are all in a cinderblock walled dorm room without any room treatments?

 

[Pianoman84d]

Is that the setup where the speakers are all in a cinderblock walled dorm room without any room treatments?

I dunno, Its the first review on the AV123 forum. In any case, does it matter as long as they compared both speakers in the same room with the same equipment?

 

[emorphien]

I dunno, Its the first review on the AV123 forum. In any case, does it matter as long as they compared both speakers in the same room with the same equipment?

It may, since the logans are dipolar and the Strata isn't as far as I know. Who knows though, still an interesting read.

 

[Pianoman84d]

True, anyway the guy who reviewed them and compared to the ML Summits knows what he is talking about. All I was trying to point out is that the Strata Minis seem to be a very special music speaker. Not trying to say their the best speaker in the world, but just trying to give the OP some more info about the comparisons that have been done. P.S. Secrets of HT & HiFi posted a review of the Mini the other day. Lets just say they liked it.

BTW- Audioholics Mods, any plans to review the mini you can share?

 

[billnchristy]

If you bought M80s with rosewood veneer wouldnt the price be very close or more?

I think the mini's would eat them alive...but in a party enviornment maybe not...and the M80s would definitely excell at HT...unless you bought 5 minis...hmmm...

 

[emorphien]

I agree, I suspect the M80s and most Axioms would be a solid home theater choice.

 

[gmichael]

Just a couple of days left. Tick tick tick.....