Just started working at a new shop and they sell a lot of Focal speakers. I've never really heard of them just trying to get some opinions. Also has anyone heard of steg amps. Installed one and thought wth is this.
Focal stuff is usually regarded as really high end - but I find their speakers unbearably bright and etched.
I don't think componet sets are really that good as a whole package - but I wouldn't mind trying an active crossover with Focal drivers though - I mean they certainly look nice enough.
Tonality of the coaxials and the componets, out of the box, is awfully raw, I think.
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"I'm finished!" - Daniel Plainview
I have never cared for metal domes. The Focals are the very reason for the distaste, as well. Etched, that's a good descriptor.
As far as the Steg amps? Never heard of em, and from all I can see on the webpage, either they are REALLY good, or REALLY overpriced. Their 400X2 is $4600.00 (at current euro to dollar rates). I'd be interested in hearing if they are worth that kind of coin, but I am certainly impressed with the build quality, seen at ampguts.
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It all reminds me of something that Molière once said to Guy de Maupassant at a café in Vienna: "That's nice. You should write it down."
I worked at a shop that sold Focal speakers. I can't stand the bright tweeter. But as they are highly reguarded by many, I tried to look past this. I spent a lot of time listening to most of their components, including a 3-way set. Through the whole line they lacked in midbass response. I also couldn't get a decent soundstage from any of them even though I was listening in the sweet spot. At first I thought maybe there was a phase issue so I re-wired one side of each set. That didn't fix the problems. So my opinion is that they are very poorly designed and way overpriced. There are MUCH better choices out there.
I own a few sets of focals so i might be a little biased but i love mine! I have two sets of 165K2P and also a set of 165KPS. I can understand how some would find them a little bright but that is how i prefer the sound of mine. Everyone is different.
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2007 Acura TSX
SQ setup in the works