I spent my first day at CES visiting the exhibits at the Venetian Hotel, the best place for stereo components and high-end gear. Exhibitors are placing a renewed emphasis on more affordable high-performance speakers and 2.1 channel sound. Affordability is certainly a matter of opinion, but when Martin Logan introduces a pair of bookshelf speakers, the Motion LX16 with a ribbon tweeter for $799/pair, audiophiles pay attention. Better still, a pair of Martin Logan Electro Motion ESL speakers with legendary electrostatic drivers for $2000/pair. Both were on active display at the show and I can't wait to review them.
Speaker manufacturers are also promoting 2.1 channel sound. Many people prefer a simpler, less complex sound system for music, movies and TV and 2.1 channels is the way to do it. Cambridge Audio is showing its Minx system, a 2.1 channel satellite speaker solution with a choice of one or two cube-style speakers and three subwoofer models. Prices start in the $500 range for a 2.1 channel system. Focal speakers is showing its Bird Series, three bookshelf or wall mountable speakers combined with an amplifier that has a built in subwoofer. Really. The subwoofer is built into the amp. I look forward to hearing that. More to come from CES later. Be sure to visit the home theater site with Robert Silva, About.com Guide to Home Theater.
Comments
Do you have any initial perspectives about how the minx speakers sound? I am very curious to hear some thoughts about them, since nobody nearby has them yet in their stores.