OM-200

Product Review

Page 5 of 10

direct radiators to some high quality dipoles. Mirage classes the OMNI FX as an OMNI polar speaker and do not suggest it belongs in either camp. Instead they claim ,and I quote, "Fewer speaker placement headaches arise with the use of the OMNI FX surround speaker, as the resulting sound is spacious and not easily localized, perfect for creating sound effects like a helicopter flying in the background or rainfall falling around you." I will talk about my experiences and opinions on this a little later in the article.

The OMNI FX speakers are constructed from 5/8” MDF and can be finished in black or white to match your décor. A single grille covers the OMNIGUIDE in a single encompassing arc. The OMNI FX speakers are sold as single units for around $200 to allow for easy setup of 5.1 to 7.1 systems. Mounting is accomplished by connecting OMNI FX to an included

bracket with the aid of a very heavy metal bolt connected to the top of the binding post cup. The speaker is stabilized by two thick rubber feet which should be attached to the back of the speaker. I would have known this had I read the instructions, but due to my dislike for instruction manuals, I stuck the rubber feet to the wall, oops . . . .

Mirage quotes the frequency response of the FX to be 80 Hz to 20 kHz at ± 3 dB. This response will work well with THX or other SSPs that use 80Hz as their crossover point. I do not have the tools necessary to measure these so I cannot verify the response. I can say I did not notice any issues during numerous listening sessions.

The OM-200 subwoofer is what started the quest for this review. At CES, a group of us spoke with Mirage to see what the deal was with all the cool looking speakers (the new OMNI series you are reading about here). They, of course, explained all the benefits of the 360 degree dispersion pattern at lower costs and even introduced us to one of the designers. As part of the discussion, they showed us a new matching sub, the OM-200. Their claims at the show were quite interesting, and included comments like more power; 6 dB more output than its predecessor

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_10_2/mirage-omni-speakers-5-2003.html

5/5/2003

OMNI 5.1 specifications

The Mirage Loudspeakers OMNI 5.1 system represents a significant advancement in home audio technology, designed to deliver an immersive surround sound experience. This upscale speaker system combines an elegant aesthetic with cutting-edge acoustics, making it a great choice for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

One of the standout features of the OMNI 5.1 is its unique OMNI directional design. This technology allows the speaker to produce sound in all directions, creating a three-dimensional audio field that envelops the listener. This omnidirectional soundstage ensures that every seat in the room enjoys a uniform listening experience, eliminating the typical sweet spot limitation found in traditional speaker systems.

The OMNI 5.1 package includes a total of five speakers, comprising four satellite speakers and one powerful subwoofer. The satellites are designed with a sleek profile that can blend seamlessly into any décor. Each satellite features high-quality drivers that reproduce a broad range of frequencies, resulting in crystal-clear highs and rich mid-range sounds. The full-range performance of the satellites ensures that dialogues in films and music alike are reproduced accurately and without distortion.

At the heart of the OMNI 5.1 system is an advanced digital signal processing technology that optimizes audio playback based on your room’s characteristics. This feature tailors the sound to the listening environment, allowing for enhanced clarity and detail. Additionally, the subwoofer is engineered to deliver deep, impactful bass, which significantly enhances cinematic audio and music experiences.

The installation of the OMNI 5.1 is straightforward, thanks to its plug-and-play design. The included mounting hardware allows for versatile placement options, whether on stands, walls, or shelves. This ease of configuration ensures that users can set up their systems without hassle, adapting the layout to their space needs.

Moreover, the OMNI 5.1 is compatible with a variety of audio sources, making it an adaptable option for modern entertainment systems. With its impressive range of features, distinctive technology, and modern styling, the Mirage Loudspeakers OMNI 5.1 system stands out as a top choice for anyone seeking a high-quality home audio solution that delivers an exceptional listening experience.