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General Asylum General audio topics that don't fit into specific categories. |
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In Reply to: I think that's it posted by bullethead on January 20, 2015 at 17:11:39:
There is a very large improvement to be had by raising the height of the Gallo Ref 3.5's. I previously searched for reasonably priced solid stands for the Ref 3.5's. Many of these enhanced maple stands cost upwards of $1000.00, for common wood of all things. Searching the internet I discovered a material used in shooting ranges to stop large caliber high velocity bullets. I gave some thought to the high energy absorption required of such a material. I thought the characteristics required for that application could be easily transferrable for use as loudspeaker stands.
I ordered two blocks of vulcanized ballistic rubber. They measure ideally for the Ref 3.5 platform: 8" x 8" x 16" and are very heavy and solid at 41 pounds each.
I would never have believed such a dramatic transformation in the sound of these speakers. The overall impact is tremendous. The resultant bass is the equivalent of adding two high quality subwoofers without the expense and complexity. The bass is not only fuller and deeper but has greater layers of detail and tone color. There is more range and nuance. The mid and high frequencies likewise have a three dimensional quality with subtle cues previously masked by the lower profile of the speakers directly on the floor. Horns are not anemic sounding but very full with the appropriately realistic sound pressure levels. You can hear the individual notes on each string of a guitar. What especially amazes me is it seems I have gained more efficiency. The Ref 3.5's play louder at the same volume setting I previously used. The soundstage is much wider and deeper with the instrumentalists moving farther into the room without a loss of depth of field. Also, overall clarity is substantially improved and the experience seems cleaner overall.
These loudspeakers absolutely need to be raised at least 8 inches off the floor. The tweeters are now at my seated ear level, 8 inches higher than stock. I previously had them slightly toed in but this is no longer necessary. I moved them about 6 inches closer to the center line and pointed straight ahead. They are positioned 9 feet apart and I sit about 13 feet away with the woofers facing each other.
There are two minor cautions. These blocks are priced at $41.00 each but the UPS ground shipping is costly due to the total 82 pound weight, or about $1.00 per pound. They are made of vulcanized rubber and have a pronounced oily rubber smell prevailing in the room when you first take them out of the box. I helped to disperse this by leaving the window and door open all day with only the fan on the HVAC operating (my dedicated room has its own HVAC).
This is the best $158.00 I have ever spent. Seriously, this is like getting an entirely new music library and loudspeakers at once without spending exorbitant amounts of money on high end audiophile approved products.
These are now the best speakers that I have ever owned. They are much better than the ADS 810's, the ADS 1590's, the PMC AML1's or the Avalon Eidolons I previously owned. Now that I have the room tuned in properly I know I am absolutely correct on the sound of these Ref 3.5's and that sound is not dark.
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Follow Ups
- RE: I think that's it - House13 10:37:35 01/21/15 (3)
- What a great idea! - Todd A. 07:15:47 01/22/15 (1)
- RE: What a great idea! - House13 07:25:34 01/22/15 (0)
- thank you - bullethead 16:01:19 01/21/15 (0)
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