Avalon Acoustics Sentinel manual Listening Qualities, Frequency Response Effects

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12.3 Listening Qualities

Now we will turn our attention to the listening experience, and describe how these measurable properties correlate with our subjective impressions.

There are two main factors which affect subjective low-frequency accuracy, frequency response and transient response. At low frequencies, these two

descriptions are different aspects of the same event.5 Nevertheless, for the purposes of this discussion, we will treat these two topics separately as much as is possible.

Frequency Response Effects

As you listen to music, images of the instruments that created the sounds are elicited. For instance, one can tell the approximate size of a drum from the sound it produces. On a high-resolution playback system, finer details can be heard; i.e., is the head made of plastic or calfskin? Is the player using light sticks or heavy ones?

Arelatively broad-band emphasis (or de-emphasis) of a given frequency range can tend to exaggerate (or diminish) the relative size of the instruments playing in that range. A useful tool for evaluating these distortions of size is a recording of a small group of unamplified acoustic instruments made with a simple microphone set-up. One superb example is the series of acoustic jazz recordings available from Chesky Records. These are made with a single-point stereo microphone, and feature a photograph of the recording session that shows the location of the players.

Listening for Size Distortions

Play a recording of this type, with the volume adjusted to achieve a natural playback level. As you listen, create a mental image of the players based on sounds being recreated. Then ask yourself, "Does this sonic image correspond to the musical instruments that generated these sounds?"

Is the portrait a natural one, or are certain elements distorted? Does a stand-up bass sound like the correct size, or is it exaggerated, sounding like it is ten feet tall, or as if the strings are the size of ropes? A speaker with excessive in-room bass response can create these effects. On the other hand, a speaker system with rolled-off bass can shrink the size of instruments, turning the same stand-up bass into a cello-sized instrument.

5Below about 200 Hz, virtually every woofer operates as a minimum-phase device. This means that the responses in the time-domain and the frequency-domain are inextricably linked, and that the one generates the other. Thus, two woofers with the same frequency response will necessarily exhibit the same time (phase) response. However, many crossover networks display non-minimum phase response, and will thereby alter the phase response of the woofer in the speaker system.

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Contents Musical Masterpieces Page Table of Contents Introduction Listening Position Introduction OverviewLow Noise Floor Coherent Energy Transfer Active Reference System Introduction ContentsUnpacking Instructions Room Preparation and Verification Crate and Box Placement for Unpacking Room set-up for unpackingOpening the Crates To unpack the crossover cabinetsTo unpack the upper speaker cabinets Opening the Sub Amplifier Crates Removing Apex‘ Couplers from Set-up Blocks System Set-upPreparation Left / Right Channel Matching Installation of Apex‘ couplers Lower Speaker Cabinet Set-upUpper Speaker Cabinet Set-up Page Page Proper placement of crossover cabinet behind speaker Crossover Cabinet Set-upFelt Anti-Diffraction Mask Orientation of the upper Felt MaskSub Amplifier Set-up Wiring Instructions Do not over-tighten the screwsWiring and Field Interactions Inductive field effectsConnecting Upper Speaker Cabinet to Crossover Do not over-tighten the binding postsConnecting Speaker Cable to the Crossover Connect Speaker Cable to your Amplifier Connecting Subwoofer to the Sub Amplifier Two outputs at the preamplifier Connecting Preamplifier to the AmplifiersInterconnect Y-cable at the preamplifier Break-in Period Room Compensation Subwoofer AmplifierDesign Principle Master Felt Anti-diffraction Masks Maximizing PerformanceSeparate Left / Right Amplifiers Apex‘ Couplers Room Treatment and System / Listener PositionToe-In First Reflection Points Corner TreatmentCrossover Cabinet Care of Your Avalon LoudspeakersCabinet DriversWarranty Event of a ProblemWarranty Statement Page Room Acoustics / Speaker Position An Optical Analogy Basic Room AcousticsStanding Waves Flutter Echo Early Reflections Avoiding Early Reflections Angle Angle Y Reflected Sound Direct Sound Low Frequency Reflections Bass reinforcement 100 200 500 Page Summary of Recommendations Flutter Echo and Standing WavesSpeaker Placement Early ReflectionsListening Room Example Time Alignment Listening PositionPath Length Symmetry Summary Accuracy of Bass Reproduction Sensitivity to Time-Related Information Fast BassMeasurements of Audio Equipment Correlation with Amplifier MeasurementsLoudspeaker Measurements Designing for Accurate Bass Reproduction Listening for Size Distortions Listening QualitiesFrequency Response Effects Transient Response Effects Active Control of Bass Energy Active Subwoofer SystemAnechoic Frequency Response vs. In-Room Frequency Response Features Subwoofer Amplifier SpecificationsLoudspeaker

Sentinel specifications

Avalon Acoustics Sentinel represents a pinnacle in high-fidelity loudspeakers, designed for audiophiles who demand exceptional sound quality and elegant design. Known for their commitment to meticulous craftsmanship and innovative technology, Avalon Acoustics continues to push the boundaries of acoustic performance with the Sentinel model.

One of the standout features of the Sentinel is its unique three-way design. This configuration allows for precise sound reproduction across the entire audio spectrum, delivering rich bass, articulate midrange, and sparkling highs. The speaker utilizes proprietary drivers that have been engineered to minimize distortion while maximizing dynamic range and sensitivity. This ensures that every note is rendered with clarity and precision, making it ideal for any listening environment.

The cabinet design of the Sentinel is another aspect that underscores Avalon's commitment to excellence. Constructed from carefully selected hardwoods and finished to perfection, the enclosure not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also plays a critical role in acoustic performance. Its solid build effectively reduces resonance and undesirable vibrations, allowing the drivers to perform at their best.

In terms of technology, the Sentinel incorporates advanced crossover networks. These networks are designed to ensure seamless transition between drivers, providing a cohesive soundstage. By using high-quality components, the crossover systems significantly improve the overall performance, ensuring that listeners enjoy a balanced and natural tonal quality.

Moreover, the Sentinel features adjustable bass ports, allowing users to tailor the speaker's performance to fit their specific room acoustics. This flexibility helps to optimize the listening experience, regardless of the environment. The speakers also include easy-to-use bi-wiring and bi-amping capabilities, enabling audiophiles to customize their setup for optimal sound quality.

Finally, the visual appeal of Avalon Acoustics Sentinel cannot be understated. With its sleek lines and contemporary design, it is a statement piece that complements any décor. Available in various finishes, the Sentinel seamlessly blends performance with style, catering to both auditory and aesthetic sensibilities.

In summary, Avalon Acoustics Sentinel stands out as an exceptional loudspeaker that combines advanced technology, exquisite craftsmanship, and customizable features. Its three-way design, high-quality drivers, and adjustable features make it a top contender for those seeking unparalleled sound quality in a luxurious package.
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