Various reviewers, as well as previous posts on these boards have used the terms "bright and forward sounding" to describe Axiom tower speakers (M-60's and M-80's in particular). I believe I have a mind-set for what "bright" refers to, however, I would appreciate if someone could explain or define what is meant by "forward sounding"?

Thanks.

Well, here's my definition...

When I first set up my Axiom speakers, I thought they were a little on the bright side compared to my previous speakers which were Infinity RS-4's. However, after a LOT of listening and comparing them to the Infinity's, a way better desciption would be very clean, clear, and detailed in the highs. I would be willing to bet that others here who have listened to recordings which could potentially produce such brightness, would agree that the volume levels can be turned up on them considerably without getting harsh or tiring. In other words, these speakers are not "shrilly" or "tinny" which are terms that I personally use to describe brightness in other speakers.

As far as being forward, the Axiom's are very efficient which apparently means that not a lot of power is needed to make them loud. Perhaps, this is why they are considered forward. Personally, I wouldn't say they are "in your face" forward at all, but they don't restrain nor hold back sounds. They are all just clearly presented to in a very open fashion...not at all muddy or mushy.



Mary

Appreciate your comments Mary. Thanks.

Cheers.

Joe90

Another (and perhaps a bit extreme) way to describe a speaker that is very forward sounding (at least in MY acoustic memory/terminology) is to listen to a speaker that uses a horn midrange and tweeter. If you ever have heard such a speaker (like some of the older Klipsh speakers) you will understand in an instant!

Randyman

Thanks for the example Randyman. Using the old Klipsh horn tweeter/midrange speaker as a baseline example of "very forward-sounding" (translation=harsh?), how would you rate or describe the sound of Axioms (M60 or M80) in comparison?

Joe90

Just for a bit of background - I have pretty sensitive hearing in the upper midrange (and minor very high frequency hearing loss)frequencies (but MANY people do).

The very pronounced forward sound of the horn loaded tweeter and midrange designs quickly gives me listening fatigue. I also used to experience that to a lesser degree on the older Cerwin-Vega semi-horn speaker designs. As a baseline comparison, to the old Klipsch horns, the M60s have a SLIGHT tendency to do the same thing but to a a MUCH lesser degree - BUT only on certain music (CDs). I am fairly convinced that it is more of the recording technique than a characteristic of the 60s driver/crossover design. Many pop/rock recordings are miked and mixed specifically for radio and/or boom box (and portable) play. Thus they are too "hot" for many good stereo systems.

Since I have never heard the M80s , I cannot speak to their sound, (though I understand they are very similar to the 60s) but I had the 50s and 60s side by side in my LR and I CAN tell you the difference between them - and the 60 is definately MORE forward (clear, clean) in the mids and slightly brighter on the very TOP end (but Hey, I REALLY like that part!) Nothing makes me smile like hearing the crisp sizzle of a high hat or a tamborine, the attack (uppper snap) on the snare drum, or the bright brassy sound of a trumpet.

I hope this helps!

Randyman

Appreciate the helpful info. Thanks again Randyman.

Cheers.