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The Arx A2 center channel and L-R (LCR) speaker's flat-panel planar magnetic tweeter replaces conventional domes and cones, and twin very long throw SplitGap woofers slash distortion and nearly double output.
Used as a center speaker or as multiples in a very clean and dynamic multi-channel system, the Arx A2 has both the power and the poise you expect.
Arx A2 center / LCR loudspeaker
The Arx A2 is a powerful, compact, multi-use main or center speaker with very advanced technology and extraordinary sound quality - the A2 works equally well as a reference-grade center channel monitor or in pairs as big-sounding left and right speakers. The special planar magnetic tweeter rotates to either orientation so you can configure a perfectly matched three-channel front stage with just a screwdriver and a spare five minutes. Either way, the versatile A2 has the power and precision to anchor demanding home theater systems at a performance level way above its price class.
Convertible, flexible design tunes to your system
The A2's planar magnetic tweeter may be easily rotated 90 degrees with a screwdriver, keeping it vertically-aligned and allowing the A2 to be used horizontally as a center speaker or vertically as a main left and right loudspeaker. Two bass tuning options allow the A2 to be used as either a full-range system or in conjunction with a subwoofer. A removable black knit grille, rear-facing aerodynamic tuned port, and heavy, single input terminal pair complete the speaker. The A2 includes one 3" planar magnetic tweeter and a pair of identical 5.25" high-excursion woofers, all housed in a smart-looking, computer-milled enclosure, assembled and finished to high quality standards, and finished in economical simulated black ash.
Download the Arx User Guide
Intended use
The Arx A2 is designed with adequate diffraction step compensation to allow its use as a main loudspeaker placed away from major boundaries. This compensation equalizes the speaker's frequency response so that as omnidirectional low frequencies begin to wrap around the cabinet, more directional upper frequencies remain tonally balanced.
The Arx A2 is a convertible powerful bass refex system with an aerodynamically-flared rear port that provides bass reinforcement at very low frequencies. This port is designed for high flow - it compliments the A2's very long throw woofers' much higher than average output.
The port comes loaded with a charcoalester foam plug that converts the bass reflex tuning to acoustic suspension.Left in place, the plug allows the A2 to be used in a bookshelf or entertainment center, and if used with the speaker in a 80Hz highpassed center channel role, may also aid AVR or processor crossover integration to the system's .1 channel active subwoofer. The convertible nature of the A2's bass system gives the speaker added flexibility for numerous setup options.
Detail of one Arx A2 woofer and planar magnetic tweeter. For vertical use, the tweeter rotates 90 degrees.
The A2's flat-panel "planar magnetic" tweeter replaces conventional domes and cones with a nearly weightless thermoplastic "leaf" driven by an intense magnetic field that completely saturates its surface. The result is a lightening-quick response, high linearity, and surprisingly neutral and extended high frequencies.
The Arx A2 uses a distinctive, high-performance planar-magnetic tweeter.
The Arx A2 loudspeaker also guarantees powerful, low distortion bass performance. New for 2010, Arx "SplitGap" bass technology drives the speaker to higher output and lower distortion at the same time. SplitGap licenses this dual-gap, low-distortion, XBL2bass technology, which includes a pair of force-generating magnet gaps where all conventional drivers use one.
SplitGap provides far more linear cone excursion for the most effortless and powerful bass from the compact Arx A2 package. SplitGap also dramatically lowers speaker distortion for a difference you can hear. Combined with the exceptional Arx planar magnetic tweeter, this new bass technology raises the entire speaker's performance to a level unavailable at this price until now.
Dual SplitGap 5.25" high-power, long-throw midbass drivers combine to generate the big sound of speakers with nearly double their combined cone area. The Arx A2's tuned bass alignment optimizes bass response for impressive power for such a trim MTM loudspeaker.
The A2 uses twin low-distortion SplitGap woofers for high output and natural, lifelike sound.
The Arx A2 excels at music and its high-power crossover network sums the drivers seamlessly. Like all Arx models, the A2 has been engineered for a consistent soundfield with excellent acoustical power distribution. Inside we've used heavy gauge, low-loss inductors, premium film capacitors, and metal film resistors, all CAD-designed and tuned by ear over dozens of hours of critical listening.
For a complete Arx system, consider the A1 satellite speaker for effects duty and optionally, the A3 tower loudspeaker for front main duty - the Arx A2 speaker shares identical drivers and acoustics with the rest of the line, allowing you to mix and match easily. With spacious soundscapes being such an essential part of the home theater experience, the A2's extremely faithful high frequency personality is a must, while it's upgraded bass performance is a true revelation for its modest size and price.
All Arx models feature a no-frills Black Ash PVC vinylwrap finish over heavy CNC mill-cut panels. Precision joinery from one of the world's best speaker cabinet makers combine with very special Arx drivers and design expertise to deliver the amazing sound and tremendous value the line is fast becoming known for.
Input terminal set also rotates. A low-velocity, low-noise port tunes the A2's substantial low frequency output.
The Audio Insider is proud to present this extraordinary line of products at very special prices. Try a single, pair, or trio of Arx A2's anywhere you need excellent resolution, lowest distortion, and the most satisfying sound in its class.
Arx technology
Arx speakers are based on two important, groundbreaking technologies and we've got both in one economical performance loudspeaker. The first is the "planar-magnetic" high frequency technology. The second is the radical new Arx "SplitGap" bass technology.
Tweeter
All Arx speakers use a special planar magnetic flat-panel tweeter with superb high frequency characteristics. This special device is quite unique to speaker systems of the modest Arx cost. In fact, this device is typically found in speakers costing many times more than Arx.
The planar magnetic tweeter consists of a feather-light membrane driven uniformly by a magnetic field created by intensely powerful Neodymium bar magnets. Foil conductors bonded to a thermoplastic membrane carry delicate high-frequency signals nearly perfectly. Lacking the complex mechanical interplay of the many parts that comprise conventional tweeters, the planar magnetic tweeter's sound has both great detail and excellent dynamic power, imparting music and soundtracks with the natural, neutral high frequency detail needed for excellent definition, and the robust output required for today's dynamic recordings.
The planar magnetic tweeter also possesses high thermal capacity and electrical power handling, together with controlled dispersion, making it sure to keep its cool during peak demands and to do so predictably within the listening environment.
Compared to usual domes and cones, you can see just how different Arx planar magnetic tweeters are.
The entire sound-producing assembly has been replaced with a simple emissive diaphragm of flat, micro-light high temperature polymer film. This diaphragm has a flat response to beyond 30kHz, a half octave beyond most dome tweeters. In an Arx tweeter, there's less to resonate, less to distort, and less to fail.
The Arx tweeter's voice coil is an evenly distributed pattern of ultra-light foil. No other parts are needed so there's nothing more to weigh down the moving surface.
The flat, ultra-low mass Arx tweeter diaphragm is energized by rows of powerful Neodymium magnets, ounce for ounce about five times more powerful than those in regular tweeters.
Arx's special tweeters have more radiating area, given them a reduction in intermodulation distortion you can hear and measure - your music and soundtracks simply sound clearer, more effortless, and more transparent.
Unlike the lesser domes found in common speakers at Arx's low cost, the planar magnetic or "ribbon" tweeter has lower distortion at every volume level.
Midrange / Midbass
All Arx models mate special tweeter technology with either one or two high-power "SplitGap" midwoofers with licensed XBL2 dual-gap technology. These drivers feature radically higher excursion and very low distortion, and are precision-tuned to each Arx enclosure for best bass output from compact enclosures.
What is XBL2 SplitGap? This rare licensed technology adds a second voice coil gap and significant distortion-reduction - think of it as a turbocharged regular woofer. SplitGap's second drive gap is carefully positioned so that where a conventional woofer's gives up, an Arx cone shifts into acoustic overdrive and virtually doubles its output. For an audible bonus, SplitGap slashes distortion at the same time.
SplitGap woofers have shorter voice coils for lower moving mass and lower inductance, giving Arx speakers excellent midrange articulation.
Copper in the SplitGap motor reduces distortion-causing flux modulation, greatly extends speaker response, and improves thermal capacity for higher power handling.
SplitGap motors have more uniform cone drive, lowering distortion at any point of motion.
Compared to regular woofers, SplitGap has 30% less motor distortion. Arx XBL2 motor technology also nearly literally doubles the speaker's "volume displacement" - the total amount of air the woofer driver can displace - for unexpectedly deep and dynamic bass.
The Arx high performance midwoofer, while having the broader midrange dispersion and higher extension of a 5.25" cone, can move as much or more air as a good 6.5" woofer. The Arx SplitGap woofer also greatly reduces distortion, runs cooler, and can take more power.
Crossover networks
All Arx models include precision crossover assemblies optimized for linear power and predictable dispersion. Components are best quality, featuring epoxy circuit boards, low-loss inductors and premium select film capacitors for critical signal areas. For nearly constant acoustical power, the A1 monitor and A3 tower use modified, low-Q 4th order transfer functions, while the A2 uses a modified 3rd order function for excellent off-axis dispersion.
Cabinets
Extreme Arx performance requires a heavy, braced enclosure, which all models have. All models rely on precision, computererized mill-cut 18mm thick reinforced cabinets from one of the best cabinet houses in the industry. While not fancy, these enclosures are perfectly tuned and heavy enough for great sonics at any level.
Lastly, extreme Arx value calls for conservative finishes, which is why every Arx speaker is finished in simulated Black Ash PVC. Arx finishes clean easily, blend in, and with reasonable care, last a long time.
Based on my initial listening impressions (less than 8 hours), I can safely say that the Arx A2 is a vast improvement over the Original Acculine A2 (non-r version). The Arx A2 addresses my major criticisms of the Acculines, such as weak bass, and the unforgiving nature of the Neo3 tweeter on bright tracks such as mainstream pop music. If you were impressed by the original Acculines, you’ll be thrilled to hear the improvement of the Arx line. The Planar tweeter and SplitGap woofers work exceptionally well together…I think that Jon Lane and the folks at TAI have a definite winner on their hands. A big kudos to you at releasing this speaker at this price point. The Arx are a definite win for the value-oriented audio enthusiasts.
Based on my initial listening impressions (less than 8 hours), I can safely say that the Arx A2 is a vast improvement over the Original Acculine A2 (non-r version). The Arx A2 addresses my major criticisms of the Acculines, such as weak bass, and the unforgiving nature of the Neo3 tweeter on bright tracks such as mainstream pop music. If you were impressed by the original Acculines, you’ll be thrilled to hear the improvement of the Arx line.
The Planar tweeter and SplitGap woofers work exceptionally well together…I think that Jon Lane and the folks at TAI have a definite winner on their hands. A big kudos to you at releasing this speaker at this price point. The Arx are a definite win for the value-oriented audio enthusiasts.
-”Miwo”, writing at the AVS forum.
I’ve been listening to the Arx A3 for the past 24 hours using a Rotel receiver and my Neuhaus Laboratories T-2 amplifier, using vinyl records, CDs and iTunes music as my sources. A full review will have to wait until they are completely broken in but for now I would like to report that the Arx speakers are noticeably better than the Acculines and the difference was apparent pretty much from the moment I hooked them up…The sound was detailed, rich and sweet in a way that just makes you want to stand up and cheer. Stereo imaging is excellent and the speakers have a big sound that really creates presence and impact…Even at 24 hours in, they are definitely keepers and I am looking forward to complete break-in and a full review.
-Don Lindich at The Sound Advice Blog. Don continues at the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette:
Arx is noticeably better than Acculine in every way and rate in an entirely different league. I did not think it was possible, especially since the price stayed the same. Arx’s clarity, detail and precise sound definition are stunning and unequaled for the money. What I was not expecting is Arx’s warmth, richness and great sense of naturalness. Often when speakers go to extremes with clarity they sound harsh or bright and Arx has commendably avoided this. The Arx A3 speakers also have a big, full sound that creates real presence in the listening room.
Arx is noticeably better than Acculine in every way and rate in an entirely different league. I did not think it was possible, especially since the price stayed the same.
Arx’s clarity, detail and precise sound definition are stunning and unequaled for the money.
What I was not expecting is Arx’s warmth, richness and great sense of naturalness. Often when speakers go to extremes with clarity they sound harsh or bright and Arx has commendably avoided this.
The Arx A3 speakers also have a big, full sound that creates real presence in the listening room.
Writing in listener comments at our own forum, “daggerNC” notes:
And here is one my most important criteria when I judge speakers (and other components in the chain) – imaging and sound staging. I’ve got to be able to sonically “see” the musicians on the stage (real or studio): Steve dead center with his guitar, drums behind him, the sax to the left and back about 8′, cow bell on the left side of the drum set, backup vocalists either left and/or right of Steve, etc. And…I can “see” the sound stage pretty well with these little bookshelves! Nice, but what really exceeded my expectations is something that is very special that only truly “good” speakers can do: portray all the different instruments and singers as unique sonic entities so that you can “see” the individual musicians with your ears. If you are present at a live performance (acoustic in a smaller venue is best) you hear all the musicians playing together, but you also can distinctly see and hear the bassist and the drummer and the lead guitar and the rhythm guitar and the keyboardist, etc. It’s not just hearing the instruments and vocals all mashed together, but hearing all the individual elements playing together to make one. It’s a very cool effect, and adds to the realism of the playback. Kudos to the Arx A1’s for doing a really decent job at this – not at the level my electrostatics could do, but d@mn, for these little inexpensive speakers??? So, bottom line…the A1’s are here to stay. My initial impressions conclude with this: somebody’s stupid here. Either Jon is for offering such a great little speaker at such a low cost, or we (speaker buying public) are for not scooping these up at this price point!
And here is one my most important criteria when I judge speakers (and other components in the chain) – imaging and sound staging. I’ve got to be able to sonically “see” the musicians on the stage (real or studio): Steve dead center with his guitar, drums behind him, the sax to the left and back about 8′, cow bell on the left side of the drum set, backup vocalists either left and/or right of Steve, etc. And…I can “see” the sound stage pretty well with these little bookshelves! Nice, but what really exceeded my expectations is something that is very special that only truly “good” speakers can do: portray all the different instruments and singers as unique sonic entities so that you can “see” the individual musicians with your ears. If you are present at a live performance (acoustic in a smaller venue is best) you hear all the musicians playing together, but you also can distinctly see and hear the bassist and the drummer and the lead guitar and the rhythm guitar and the keyboardist, etc. It’s not just hearing the instruments and vocals all mashed together, but hearing all the individual elements playing together to make one. It’s a very cool effect, and adds to the realism of the playback. Kudos to the Arx A1’s for doing a really decent job at this – not at the level my electrostatics could do, but d@mn, for these little inexpensive speakers???
So, bottom line…the A1’s are here to stay. My initial impressions conclude with this: somebody’s stupid here. Either Jon is for offering such a great little speaker at such a low cost, or we (speaker buying public) are for not scooping these up at this price point!
Another AVS poster, “Tawaun da Bomb” has just started to get to know his Arx A3 and has this to say:
I just received my Arx 3’s and it will be a very tough speaker to beat for $499 a pair, very nice deep tight bass, very detailed mids and excellent topend extension…
Other comments related to The Audio Insider by phone and email are consistently enthusiastic: Arx make music. They have the ability to look inside a recording and lay out in space the “flesh and blood” of the recording. Arx are transparent, detailed, dimensional, and musically-satisfying.
Thanks to all for validating our design goals and we look forward to posting more comments and reviews soon.
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