Balancing of the volume levels when using amps with different input sensitivities can be accomplished by outboard level controls available from your dealer at very modest cost. If the amplifiers have input sensitivities which are fairly close, even if they are different brands, there will be no need for level controls.

VERTICAL BI-AMPING: If two stereo amplifiers of the same brand and model are available, try using this method of wiring. One channel will drive the woofer module, while the other channel of the same amplifier will drive the upper M/T’s.

HORIZONTAL BI-AMPING: If two different stereo amps are available, one amp can drive the woofers and the other amp, perhaps of lower power, can drive the M/T’s. This works well with large solid state amps driving the woofers, with a smaller tube amp driving the upper end. We have heard of systems with 200 watts per channel on the woofers, with 20-30 watts per channel of tube power driving the M/T sections. This may seem like an imbalance, but since the most power is needed to drive the woofers, it may work very well!

PLACEMENT

The VR-4SR Mk2’s are Room Interactive, meaning that they were designed to work in an average listening room, not an anechoic chamber. Speakers that measure very good in an anechoic chamber will usually sound too bass heavy and directional when placed in a room due to boundary effects and room gain in the bass region. The increased bass response of the room (called boundary gain) has been factored into the VR-4SR Mk2’s tonal balance, along with the reflective nature of boundary surfaces such as wood, plaster, glass, and so forth. Since the VR-4SR Mk2’s are quasi- omnidirectional transducers, designed to be the inverse of the recording microphone, their sound output will react with the listening room in a positive manner only if properly placed. There are two components of sound which reach the listener’s ears:

1.The direct arrival, or initial wavelaunch of the speaker itself; this is the sound that is purely from the speaker system and should be dominant in your room.

2.The secondary waves which are reflected from the room’s boundary surfaces. The reflected sound is delayed according to the distances involved from the speaker to the boundaries, then back to the listener. It is important for the reflected sound-field to integrate properly with the initial wavelaunch, since out-of-phase reflections will interfere with both flat frequency response and image focus. It is not difficult to determine where the best placement will be in any given room, since you will be using a pink noise listening test discussed later. (See Pink Noise Test on Page 8).

In every room, there will usually be more than one magic spot for the VR's to sound their best. However, finding those spots is not intuitive due to the nature of reverberation characteristics and room dimensions, which vary enormously from room to room. The VR's, being Virtual Reality simulators, are designed to load the room very similarly to the way a live instrument would load the room. Only in this way can your ear/brain hearing mechanism be lulled into believing that you could be listening to an actual performance, and not simply “canned” sound. If you had a grand piano at the end of the room where the speakers are playing, it would involve the entire room with semi-

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Von Schweikert Audio VR-4SR MK2 manual Placement
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VR-4SR MK2 specifications

Von Schweikert Audio is known for pushing the envelope in high-fidelity audio design, and the VR-4SR MK2 stands as a testament to this ambition. This floor-standing speaker model blends cutting-edge technology with exceptional craftsmanship, making it a standout choice for audiophiles seeking rich, immersive sound.

The VR-4SR MK2 is engineered with a multi-driver configuration, featuring a dedicated ribbon tweeter and dual 7-inch woofers. This combination is designed to provide an expansive soundstage while maintaining precise imaging. The ribbon tweeter is a hallmark of Von Schweikert's design philosophy, allowing for extended high-frequency response and a level of detail that many speakers struggle to achieve. It delivers clear and airy treble, ensuring that high notes resonate without harshness, making it perfect for both classical and contemporary music.

One of the key technologies utilized in the VR-4SR MK2 is the company's proprietary RCM (Resonant Chassis Management) system. This technology minimizes the resonance that can color sound reproduction, resulting in a cleaner and more accurate audio signal. The cabinet is also engineered to reduce standing waves, contributing to a tighter bass response and enhancing overall clarity.

In terms of build quality, the VR-4SR MK2 features a beautifully crafted enclosure that is visually appealing and functionally effective. With a sleek design available in various finishes, it can complement modern and traditional décors alike. Its robust construction not only enhances the aesthetic but also ensures durability over time.

The speaker’s sensitivity rating of 89 dB makes it relatively easy to drive, meaning it can be paired with a wide range of amplifiers without compromising performance. Whether you're using a high-powered amplifier or a more modestly powered unit, the VR-4SR MK2 maintains consistent performance across different playback levels.

Moreover, flexibility is a crucial aspect of the VR-4SR MK2. Its rear-firing ports allow for tailoring the bass response to fit different room acoustics, making it adaptable in various setups. This helps users achieve optimal sound reproduction regardless of their listening environment.

In conclusion, the Von Schweikert Audio VR-4SR MK2 encapsulates the perfect blend of innovative technology and meticulous craftsmanship. With its dynamic range, impressive imaging, and aesthetic appeal, it remains a worthy contender in the realm of high-end audio speakers, promising a captivating listening experience for music enthusiasts.
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