Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion Stereo tight sound in M22Ti?

I just received my M22Ti, and used a Nakamichi receiver to drive it. Unfortunately, the first sound was so "tight" (the sound stage was even worse than my 10-year old $90 Yamaha speaker). As I know, most of new speakers require some period of time to break in. I do believe that M22Ti should perform much better than the Yamaha speaker. But how long does it take for M22Ti to break-in? Is that the reason for the "tight" sound or does the problem come from my receiver?

Anon,
My M22ti's needed about 200 hours to break in. I used them with a Pioneer Elite AV receiver and had to be very patient.
Another issue might be the power supply of the your AV unit. While the Axioms are sensitive and don't require tons of current, many AV units can sound "tinny" or "tight" because they are speced to meet a price point rather than serve a musical presentation.
I had to change speaker cables on my system to find a more open and natural presentation. It made a big difference.
Just some thoughts.
Take care, Michael

Micheal,

Thanks for your comment. After 40-hour running, my M22Ti sounds a little bit better. Besides the Nakamich reciever, I also tried it with Dennon AVR3000, and Sony ES reciever. In general, Dennon AVR3000 gives better sound with M22Ti (more natural and balanced across frequences). The Sony receiver gives more detail, but too harsh in high (especially for female vocal). I also feel M22Ti is very sensitive in placement.

Another comparison is done for A/B setup with KEF Q75 (it's not really a fair comparison) using Sony ES reciever. Overall, KEF Q75 performs much better sound quality than M22Ti. Even if only considering mid-range and high, Q75 is more natural, warm and detail, while M22Ti is harsh and tight. I guess part of the reason is due to the Sony reciever, which may be better for Q75, but not for M22Ti.

I will do the similar comparison after 100 hour break in of the M22Ti. And if it is not improved, I may think to return M22Ti, and shop in the market again to see what else I can get.

Does anyone know which AV reciever ($500~$700) is better for M22Ti to get a more natural and detail sound?
I am thinking Outlaw1050 or NAD T751, but heard that outlaw could sound more harsh for some speakers. Any comments?

- S

Anon,
One option is the Pioneer Elite Line that use mofsets in the output stage; this can help tame a bright sounding system. I picked mine (VSX-07TX) up used for $600.00 plus $50.00 for a five year warranty from Tweeter.
Another question. What type of stands are you using ?
Good luck, Michael

I am using a small stand from IKEA (it's a temporary solution), which is about 10" high and 10-degree tilt.

-S