subwoofermania
Davis Acoustics is notable primarily for its traditions and the fact that the developers have always put sound first. Perhaps for this reason, the design of classic column speakers was rather monotonous – but the company successfully compensates for this appearance with the price-quality ratio. We once studied the company’s budget line, Hera, in detail and were convinced of this.
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But if you are even superficially familiar with the current Davis Acoustics model range, you have probably already noticed that the Krypton series is significantly different from the others, including that very Hera. The thing is that it was with it that the company began a new stage of development.
Davis Acoustics management has finally decided to take a serious look at the design, for which a professional design studio was involved in the process of creating acoustics. So Krypton is the first representative of the new design concept of Davis Acoustics. That is why they are so different from everything that this French brand has previously produced.
New lines
The updated design of Davis Acoustics looks very fresh and original not only against the background of classic models, but in general. The combination of a matte single-color facade with a wood-like finish on the cabinets is a well-known trend, but the Krypton design has a couple of elements that distinguish it from competitors who also took a similar style as a basis. The first is the tilt of the cabinet, which makes the overall silhouette more rapid and dynamic, and the second is the podium, which raises the acoustics above the floor and adds monumentality to it.
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The slope of the facade is most often included in the geometry of the case itself, making it a parallelogram in the lateral projection. But if you look more closely at the Krypton model, it becomes clear that they have classic rectangular cases, only installed at an angle to the horizon.
The idea of using podiums to create the tilt was probably taken from recording studios: that’s where monitors are placed on tilt stands to give them the necessary tilt angle (and this, as it turns out, is not the only thing that makes Krypton 9 similar to monitor speakers, but more on that later).
In the case of this model, the podiums perform another important function – they increase stability. Usually, supports extending beyond the body are used for this purpose, but Davis has organized an entire pedestal.
In line with another modern trend, the developers have removed all technical elements from the Krypton façade. The screws that hold the speakers are covered with decorative overlays recessed flush with the front panel. It all looks very neat, and the tweeter is especially aesthetically pleasing – the shiny dome and the contrasting matte vibration-damping “foam” around it go well together.
Krypton grilles have magnetic fastenings. Moreover, the grilles are another unique element that appeared in the new design. They are made of specially treated organic fibers, due to which, on the one hand, they look very natural and environmentally friendly, and on the other hand, they are acoustically transparent no less than the more familiar synthetic fabric. From a distance, it seems that the grille fabric is very dense, but from a small distance, you can notice how rarely the threads are located.
Another point that is especially worth noting in the design is the color palette. In addition to the spectacular combination of white facades with light wood, there is an option with a gray-blue facade and dark wood, as well as classic black, to enliven which the mid-range speaker was left with its signature yellow color, ensuring continuity of generations at the same time.
The grills, by the way, are also different in different versions. True, in the version we tested, with the gray grill on, the black podium falls out of the overall picture a little – but without it, it matches the speakers perfectly.
Peculiarities of French column construction
The redesign of the speakers also benefited the acoustic part. We all know that the tilt of the case is also a way to align the phases of the speakers: the LF section is slightly closer to the listener than the MF and especially the HF, due to which the sound from all three sections arrives at the listening point more synchronously.
The engineers also turned the fact of the podium’s appearance to the benefit of the sound: between it and the acoustics’ body, there is an additional layer of vibration isolation. But the main work in terms of combating vibrations is carried out by traditional rubber feet or spikes screwed into the podium.
As a company that specializes in producing high-tech speakers and even supplies them to other high-end speaker manufacturers, Davis Acoustics equips all of its models with only its drivers.
Krypton 9 is notable for the fact that it has the latest modification of the branded midrange with a new phase-aligning “bullet”, a new weaving scheme of the Kevlar diffuser, and a redesigned magnetic system. Only the caliber remained classic – 13 cm.
The tweeter is also different from those used in previous generations of Davis Acoustics. The impregnation not only adds a gorgeous glossy shine, but also extends the frequency range to 24 kHz, there is a decompression chamber behind the dome, and the increased diameter of 28 mm improves the coordination with the midrange.
And since Davis Acoustics designs its speakers, the company’s engineers initially adjust their parameters to each other in such a way as to simplify their job of creating crossover filters.
The Krypton 9 uses fairly high crossover frequencies: 400 Hz and 4 kHz. Perhaps that is why cellulose was chosen as the diffuser material for the low-frequency speakers – it copes well with both bass and the lower midrange. To enhance the output, two 17 cm speakers were installed at once.
The acoustic design is a phase inverter, although the developers themselves call the port “laminar”, hinting that the airflow moves without turbulence and will not become a source of overtones or coloration. The well-known habit of Davis Acoustics engineers to bring the phase inverter port to the front panel will make it easier for users to match the speakers to the room.
More Music
Not only the design but also the sound character of Krypton 9 turned out to be not quite typical for Davis Acoustics. Most of the series of this manufacturer has a quite pronounced character in the best traditions of classic Hi-Fi, and Krypton gravitates towards the modern sound school with a neutral feed. The acoustics are very transparent and responsive to the change of components and cables, and high sensitivity makes it less demanding on the amplifier power and expands the field for experiments.
The balanced, precise, and monitor-like presentation of the material that the Krypton 9 displays are not often found in floorstanders, especially those not in the highest price category. The sound is focused, clear, and well-controlled. The lower notes are handled confidently, without hum or blur, so those accustomed to humming bass reflexes that crush the listener with a single bass note will be a little disappointed.
But fans of metal, complex electronics, or experimental jazz, on the contrary, will be pleased: the Krypton 9 handles intricate musical material confidently and without hesitation. These speakers are in perfect order with dynamics and rhythm: where necessary, they provide an excellent rate of fire, and in quiet moments they are ready to give the listener a break. The phase response is good and if it does not get confused at the component level, the scene turns out holographic.
It is important to note that with the proper selection of the source and amplifier, the sound in the system with these floor-standing speakers will not be either dry or boring. There will only be a direct relationship between the quality of the recording and what you hear. Well-recorded releases will be visible from the first notes, and the atmosphere of the concert will be felt in its entirety.
To immediately feel these qualities, it is enough to turn on any of Phil Collins’ solo albums or the good old Dire Straits. Well-performed and well-recorded music captivates from the first notes simply because you hear more details, nuances, and shades as if you are personally observing the work of talented musicians.
This happens even if the most strict transistor amplifier is used in the system with Krypton 9. In order to hide the flaws of sound engineers and make low-quality mastering digestible, it is better to add some tube preamp or something else to the system that will saturate the sound with harmonics, and color and enliven the picture.
For their price category, the Krypton 9 provides excellent resolution, they are maximally transparent and neutral in character, so with good components they produce a rich, dense, and dynamic sound without adding anything of their own. They also have a solid volume reserve, so it is worth especially carefully monitoring the level when listening. When turning the volume knob, there is no distortion or coloration, only the clink of dishes in the cupboard or glass in the windows will be a natural limiter of the level.
Conclusion
The Krypton 9 floorstanders from Davis Acoustics are not only a new design but also, in some ways, a new, more modern approach to acoustic tuning. These speakers sound more monitor-like and transparent than many hi-fi bookshelf speakers, and in their price category have very few competitors in terms of resolution and sound accuracy. The character of a system with Krypton 9 will be determined mainly by all the other components.
It is also worth noting the high production culture: the quality of workmanship is excellent and meets the most modern standards. Both in appearance as a whole and in small details there is no carelessness, which is sometimes characteristic of manufacturers focusing on sound. Everything is great in Krypton 9, and the quality-price ratio is surprisingly attractive even in our troubled times.
FAQs for Davis Acoustics Krypton 9
1. What is the design of the Davis Acoustics Krypton 9?
The Krypton 9 features a modern design with a sleek cabinet, typically available in various finishes. Its aesthetic is aimed at blending well with contemporary home decor.
2. What type of drivers does the Krypton 9 use?
The Krypton 9 incorporates a combination of dynamic drivers, including a bass driver and a tweeter. This configuration is designed to deliver a balanced sound profile across various frequencies.
3. What is the frequency response of the Krypton 9?
The Krypton 9 generally has a frequency response that covers a wide range, allowing it to reproduce deep bass and clear highs, typically within the range of around 30 Hz to 25 kHz.
4. How efficient is the Krypton 9?
The speakers have a nominal impedance of 8 ohms and a sensitivity rating of around 90 dB, making them relatively easy to drive with a variety of amplifiers.
5. What type of amplifier is recommended for the Krypton 9?
A quality stereo amplifier with a power output of 50-150 watts per channel is typically recommended to drive the Krypton 9 effectively.
6. Are the Krypton 9 speakers suitable for home theater use?
Yes, the Krypton 9 speakers are suitable for home theater setups, offering excellent soundstage and clarity that enhance the cinematic experience.
7. What are the dimensions and weight of the Krypton 9?
The exact dimensions may vary slightly by model, but the Krypton 9 is generally a floor-standing speaker that stands around 1 meter tall and weighs approximately 20-25 kg.
8. Is there a break-in period for the Krypton 9?
Yes, like many high-fidelity speakers, the Krypton 9 may benefit from a break-in period. It’s recommended to play music at moderate levels for around 50-100 hours to allow the drivers to reach optimal performance.
9. What type of warranty is offered with the Krypton 9?
Davis Acoustics typically offers a standard manufacturer’s warranty, which can vary by region, so it’s best to check with the retailer for specific warranty details.
10. Where can I purchase the Davis Acoustics Krypton 9?
The Krypton 9 can be purchased through authorized audio retailers, both online and in-store. Check the official Davis Acoustics website or reputable audio equipment retailers for availability.
Specifications
- Type: Floor-standing loudspeaker
- Drivers:
- 1 x 25 mm silk dome tweeter
- 2 x 20 cm (8 inches) treated paper cone woofers
- Frequency Response: 30 Hz – 25 kHz
- Impedance: 8 ohms
- Sensitivity: 90 dB (1W/1m)
- Power Handling: 50 – 150 watts
- Crossover Frequency: 2.5 kHz
- Dimensions (H x W x D): Approximately 1000 mm x 300 mm x 360 mm (39.4″ x 11.8″ x 14.2″)
- Weight: Approximately 22 kg (48.5 lbs)
- Finish Options: Available in various finishes, including black, walnut, and other wood veneers
