Orb Speaker Questions

[rufas2000]

Right now my listening room is a treated 10 x 10 (approximate) room. I have several of the DIK acoustic panels around the room. I live in a duplex so finding a better room isn't an option (noise concerns). I might have a good opportunity to move at some point but I'll put that aside for the moment.

I was considering replacing my Klipsch RF-82s with ORB Mod 2s or 4s along with a Super8 sub. I'll try for 5.1 at some point but I'll probably start with 2.1. I also am interested in going smaller anyway for conveience sake if the sound quality dropoff is not too great.

Will the Orbs be better for the smaller room? What differences might I notice between them and the Klipschs? I listen to mostly rock music but I listen to other genres as well.

BTW: I'd keep the RF-82s for awhile in any case.

Thanks for any input. I know my ears are the judge but I want some input before doing it.

 

[rnatalli]

I think the biggest difference you'll notice is in the dynamics. Klipsch are really good in this area. The Orbs won't be as bright as Klipsch which you may or may not like.

 

[rufas2000]

I'm getting too much cymbal and the dreaded "ssss" right now and the sound is too overwhelming. Vocals aren't as up front as I would like. The guitar, maybe lower midrange seems to drown them out a bit. It just seems like the vocals should be further up front.

I used some EQ (-3 at 500 Hz, -2 at 4 KHz, +2 at 63 Hz, +1 at 8KHz) and that makes it better but still ...

For what its worth I emailed Orb Audio with a few questions. The responder said that the Orbs would be an upgrade in clarity and soundstage, both of which I find appealing. Of course he'll talk his speakers up but it wasn't a hard sell response. And I think they'll perform better in a smaller room. I'm really looking for speakers that are less room and placement sensitive.

I do like my highs (especially cymbal tings and upper range strings) so I hope I don't lose too much of that. Of course they sometimes are covered up now by silbiance (sp?).

I guess I can always send them back if I don't like them. Are the returns really as no hassle as they say?

Thanks for the response.

 

[rnatalli]

Orbs are small and light. I think Orb Audio charges $9 flat shipping. It would probably cost the same to send them back. I would try them out as you'll only be out $20 at most. It's no hassle to return them; all the ID speaker brands I've dealt with have been good about returns.

 

[rufas2000]

Thanks again.

From what I read on the site the sub is 25 pounds and if I want to send them back the shipping is on my dime so it might be a bit more. It is $9 to send them out.

I went ahead and took the plunge and ordered "The People's Choice". Mod 2 fronts and center, Mod 1 rears and a Super 8 sub. The center will fit right under my flat panel which is where the TV's speakers are. Placement of a center is challenging without those old big TVs to sit them on top of. I'm really hoping I'll be happy with the smaller size. And if not shipping them back won't be that much.