The SE model has new woofers and tweeter. All htm-200s now shipping are SE. They just need to update the website.

What's the "SE" stand for? I only see the HTM-200 on their site.
You can read more about the HTM-200SE here:
http://forum.ascendacoustics.com/showthread.php?t=1674

So is there a frequency spec somewhere? I read "about 20 hz. better" somewhere, does this mean 60-20K hz. from a 4" woofer? Sounds like a winner to me.

It sounds to me that the 200SE's would be perfect THX speakers, just right to be crossed at 80 Hz with a sub..

i'd second (third? fourth?) the votes to look at the htm-200's... it's what i use for my surrounds, and i'm quite happy with them...

no risk proposition too... you could give them a shot and see if you like them...

i also agree on not putting it in a drawer...

ps. sorry about the room comment. trust me, i know the feeling of "bad room"... ;)

I think I'm buying 5 of them tomorrow (do you know if they stock the unfinished ones?). Since they are not ported, what's wrong with one in the drawer? I would remove it's grill and it would be right at the grill fabric I have on the drawer, which is right at ear level. I'll try it, can always move it.

I think I'm buying 5 of them tomorrow (do you know if they stock the unfinished ones?). Since they are not ported, what's wrong with one in the drawer? I would remove it's grill and it would be right at the grill fabric I have on the drawer, which is right at ear level. I'll try it, can always move it.
I don't know if they stock the unfinished enclosures.

If you place it in the drawer, you want the front of the speaker at least flush with the front of the entertainment center, otherwise you will get unwanted reflections from within the space/drawer. If it works for you, great!

I think I'm buying 5 of them tomorrow (do you know if they stock the unfinished ones?). Since they are not ported, what's wrong with one in the drawer? I would remove it's grill and it would be right at the grill fabric I have on the drawer, which is right at ear level. I'll try it, can always move it.

Unless I misunderstood, I think people were saying not to put the Sierra center into the drawer. Using a 200 SE as a center, in the drawer, might work OK, with the caveat that cschang notes.

Well, if they're in stock, I'll let you know as soon as I get them. I believe my upgrade to the sr805 and five 200's will get rid of some of the harsh sound from my small Paradigms. Will let you know! Is it better to use this thread or the SE thread for talking about the 200's?

Will let you know! Is it better to use this thread or the SE thread for talking about the 200's?
Probably the SE thread...since it is a SE speaker.

Unless I misunderstood, I think people were saying not to put the Sierra center into the drawer. Using a 200 SE as a center, in the drawer, might work OK, with the caveat that cschang notes.

I talked to Dave at Ascend today about putting sierra's in an enclosure and he didn't think it would be a problem so long as you arent using them full range. sounds like if you have your crossover set at 80 or so the sierras wont move much air out the port anyway

If you are upgrading and interested in selling your Sierras, please pm me with a asking price. Thank you.

A question for the owners/experts...........I just placed an order for a pair of Sierra's after returning a pair of Paradigm Mini Monitor's (nice bass, but far too bright for my tastes). I hadn't intended on spending twice the amount the Mini's cost, but after reading so many positive reviews, I decided to go for it. They will be driven by a Rotel RX-1052 100wpc receiver. My main question is how will the bass be affected when used on a bookshelf. They will be sitting on custom built-in's flanking the fireplace and will be only 6-7 inches from the back wall. Being rear ported, will this be an issue? The Paradigm's seemed to be fine that close to the wall and were rear ported, but they also had a larger woofer 6.5". I'm really looking forward to these speakers, I figured the Rotel deserved quality speakers to drive, and the WAF of the piano black sierras is hard to beat.

are you going to be using a sub? if you cross em over theyll be fine

no sub, 2 channel system............

A question for the owners/experts...........My main question is how will the bass be affected when used on a bookshelf. They will be sitting on custom built-in's flanking the fireplace and will be only 6-7 inches from the back wall. Being rear ported, will this be an issue?

Hi Jugdish69,

I don't suspect you will have any problems, even with running the Sierra-1 full range. 6-7 inches is fine, I run a pair of Sierra-1 about the same distance from the rear wall and the full range response is smooth and accurate, no boom in my room :D

Please let me know if I can be of any assistance.

Wow! Resurrected from page 35! Just wanted to let folks know that I'll be taking a Sierra speaker stand building hiatus for a few months while I finish our basement. I have enough material on hand to build 3 or 4 pairs of stands and I'd like to clear it out sooner than later. If you're interested, please email me at vikingdwarf@gmail.com and I will put together a quote for you. I will stop taking orders at the end of January.

Thanks,

Jason

Bueller...Bueller...

J.

Anyone have any of these beauties for sale? If so, please PM me.

Shopping a new HT for my sister.

Hello guys!
I'm wondering do I need this special magnetic shielding which is offered as a option for Sierra-1 speakers?Does it make sense to sound reproduction?

What are you using for a video monitor and how close will the speakers be to it?

2 tonygeno:
37" LCD TV,distance between speakers stands about 6 foots .

2 tonygeno:
37" LCD TV,distance between speakers stands about 6 foots .
Then you do not need the magnetic shielding.

Only if you have a CRT based TV do you need to consider speakers with magnetic shielding, and that is only if the speakers are within a few feet of the TV.

Hello guys!
I'm wondering do I need this special magnetic shielding which is offered as a option for Sierra-1 speakers?Does it make sense to sound reproduction?

Hi appolo83,

Curtis is correct... Full magnetic shielding is only required if the speakers are going to be close to a CRT based television. There is absolutely no other reason to order the speakers with full shielding.

Please let me know if I can be of any assistance.

Having recently received a pair of Sierra's, I am in love. Now I'm looking to upgrade my crapping amp and am looking for suggestions. This is stereo music only listening in our living room. I would like to stay around $1k currently I'm considering Outlaw, Cambridge audio, nad, parasound(separates), and marantz products.

Having recently received a pair of Sierra's, I am in love. Now I'm looking to upgrade my crapping amp and am looking for suggestions. This is stereo music only listening in our living room. I would like to stay around $1k currently I'm considering Outlaw, Cambridge audio, nad, parasound(separates), and marantz products.
I think I would look at the used market.....with the Bel Canto S300i or S300iu in mind.

Xpa-2 from Emotiva .

Xpa-2 from Emotiva .
He'll need to add a pre-amp to that.

^He'll need to add a pre-amp to that.^

Having recently received a pair of Sierra's, I am in love. Now I'm looking to upgrade my crapping amp and am looking for suggestions. This is stereo music only listening in our living room. I would like to stay around $1k currently I'm considering Outlaw, Cambridge audio, nad, parasound(separates), and marantz products.
He was asking for an amp? Assuming he had a pre amp or receiver already??

Does anyone here have a PB13-Ultra mated with their sierra's? I was going to originally order 2 MFW-15's or an Epik Tower but as you probably know the backorder list is huge. One other thing to consider is that I wanted something made in the USA. I am basically getting tired of waiting for a sub and as far as I can tell The PB13-Ultra is a very capable sub. For the price I could get a conquest, but it's friggin huge and I dont think I have the space to accommodate it. I just looked at the site and its also on backorder again :( So basically I wanted to know what you sierra owners with PB-13 Ultra think about the combo. I will probably pull the trigger within 2 weeks. I was advised the mfw-15's would blend great with the sierra's by a highly regarded member of this forum. I would have ordered them, but then I realized 1)they are made in Columbia, South America 2)Massive back order status, and I've seen a few people get pushed back that placed their orders ages ago. I have bought things built in foreign countries before and usually I don't mind, but at this point in time I would like to support American companies that build here in the USA due to the economic problems we have at home.

I think I would look at the used market.....with the Bel Canto S300i or S300iu in mind.

I am NOT an audiophile; But am all ears in regards to this Bel Canto suggestion. Can you please walk me though this; Do I need 2 S300's for stereo? I'm in need of a CD player too?

Amp/Pre-amp? - let me rephrase: I am looking for the boxes necessary to make my speakers go tweet tweet and woof woof to the rotation of my collection of - CD and (occasional) Vinyl discs. Spending 2k on separates is not out of the question. Just means I'll wait for a new cd player. Vinyl is not a priority and I can do without.

I only do this upgrade thing every 10 to 15 years. Which is why AVS is great. During the in-between time I just listen to music. I'm after something brief - less knobs - that sounds warm to my rocking ears of 50 years; ie I'm half deaf and hate bass; especially the muddy kind.

I won't go into the the WAF, living room, bookshelf speaker considerations. But, I will say these Sierra's have it all over my old Polk RT-7's, which detined for a kids avr. In case your interested, the wiff, who's been around longer then the RT-7's likes the Sierra's better too. Makes her feel young again. Hope the Sierra's don't develop wrinkles like she has...

Thank you all for your comments.

The Bel Canto S300i and S300iu are stereo integrated amps....you just need one to drive your pair of Sierras. You would need to add a phono stage to hookup your turntable.

NAD also has some good/cost effective integrated amps as well.

The Emotiva mentioned is interesting along with its matching pre/amp....but I do not have any experience with them.

Audio Advisor has a nice price on the Cambridge 840a right now.

Astropuppy search Emotiva. The prices alone is worth the effort.

Astropuppy search Emotiva. The prices alone is worth the effort.

Thanks, these look very interesting. Unfortunately the 2-channel amp won't be available until May. Guess I'll wait. Currently I have a very long list and need to come up with a plan.

So far, the Bel Canto attracts me the most; B/c I can not fathom the idea of complete silence from a digital amp.

Does anyone here have a PB13-Ultra mated with their sierra's? I was going to originally order 2 MFW-15's or an Epik Tower but as you probably know the backorder list is huge. One other thing to consider is that I wanted something made in the USA. I am basically getting tired of waiting for a sub and as far as I can tell The PB13-Ultra is a very capable sub. For the price I could get a conquest, but it's friggin huge and I dont think I have the space to accommodate it. I just looked at the site and its also on backorder again :( So basically I wanted to know what you sierra owners with PB-13 Ultra think about the combo. I will probably pull the trigger within 2 weeks. I was advised the mfw-15's would blend great with the sierra's by a highly regarded member of this forum. I would have ordered them, but then I realized 1)they are made in Columbia, South America 2)Massive back order status, and I've seen a few people get pushed back that placed their orders ages ago. I have bought things built in foreign countries before and usually I don't mind, but at this point in time I would like to support American companies that build here in the USA due to the economic problems we have at home.

FWIW, my 20-39 PC+ could over-run the output of the Sierra's in my VERY large room (and the Sierra's can get pretty loud). If your sub is placed well, just about any decent sub will "blend" properly with bookshelf speakers.

I love my SVS. :)

FWIW, my 20-39 PC+ could over-run the output of the Sierra's in my VERY large room (and the Sierra's can get pretty loud). If your sub is placed well, just about any decent sub will "blend" properly with bookshelf speakers.

I love my SVS. :)


I might just buy it in the morning here. Transfered the funds to the proper account today :) Just waiting for the funds to float there. I tend to mull over these kinds of decisions:rolleyes: I always look and read and look some more.

I don't think blending the two will be an issue. I would be more inclined to make sure the sound quality was a match.

I don't think blending the two will be an issue. I would be more inclined to make sure the sound quality was a match.

What are your feelings on the Ultra from SVS Curtis?

What is everyone using for surrounds with Sierras? (besides two Sierras) and how does it sound?
Thanks

Mike

What is everyone using for surrounds with Sierras? (besides two Sierras) and how does it sound?
Thanks

Mike

I, and I think many, use the HTM200e's. They make mounting flat on the wall easy (they're not ported); just hang them on a sturdy picture hook. They blend well with the other Ascends, are good speakers on their on (Dr. Hsu, e.g., has stated that he uses the 200's all around, with his subs), and are more than adequate as surrounds.

Now that Dr. Hsu has his own speaker line....I don't think he uses the classic HTM-200's anymore. :)

With my Sierras, I use the 170SE's and think it works great. I would rather use Sierras, but I am afraid to mount them. The HTM-200SE, which I have not heard yet, with its new tweeter and woofers, I think would be a great choice for sound and flexibility in mounting. The 170SE's are on sale right now, so that is another consideration.

Now that Dr. Hsu has his own speaker line....I don't think he uses the classic HTM-200's anymore. :)

I'm sure you're right, Curtis. My remark was based on a very old quote (maybe yours, in fact).

I'm sure you're right, Curtis. My remark was based on a very old quote (maybe yours, in fact).
Yeah...I know. Dr. Hsu did like the classic HTM-200 very much.

What are your feelings on the Ultra from SVS Curtis?

Not to speak for curtis, but I have the previous model Ultra with my sierras in my upstairs living room and they all blend excellent together. This sub is quite musical and i have heard that the new Ultra13 is even more so. The sierras don't really need a sub for 2 ch listening, but movies are another story.

For the other questions about what others are using for surrounds with sierras, I have the classic 170's which blend well. I just purchased a pair of HTM 200SE's for my bedroom and they are awesome. For their size and cost, if you don't need a ton of lower bass for surrounds, the 200SE's are probably one of the best surround speakers I have heard.

Take care,

Brandon

What are your feelings on the Ultra from SVS Curtis?
I have heard dual PB13-Ultras in a very nice Dynaudio setup. They sounded very good, and I think would sound good with the Sierras.

I think my Hsu VTF-3.3 does fine crossed over at 60hz.

The JLA F112 I think it a better match in sound quality than my Hsu or the SVS. I would also like to try a Rhythmic sub.

I have heard dual PB13-Ultras in a very nice Dynaudio setup. They sounded very good, and I think would sound good with the Sierras.

I think my Hsu VTF-3.3 does fine crossed over at 60hz.

The JLA F112 I think it a better match in sound quality than my Hsu or the SVS. I would also like to try a Rhythmic sub.

Yeah , I looked at the JLA F112/F113 and just cant swing it right now. I pulled the trigger this morning on the Ultra. I hope this thing kicks ass.

What is everyone using for surrounds with Sierras? (besides two Sierras) and how does it sound?
Thanks

Mike

I am running the the CBM-170 SE's in the rear. They sound awesome and match up great. I wanted to go all sierra's but I can still do that if I go 7.1 in the future.

Yeah , I looked at the JLA F112/F113 and just cant swing it right now. I pulled the trigger this morning on the Ultra. I hope this thing kicks ass.
I think you will be very happy with the PB13U. It has plenty of output, and unless you compare subs head to head, discerning differences is very difficult.

If you don't mind a kit, I would try a Rhythmik. I am seriously thinking about making that a project this summer.

I am running the the CBM-170 SE's in the rear. They sound awesome and match up great. I wanted to go all sierra's but I can still do that if I go 7.1 in the future.

I spoke to Dave at Ascend today. He said the 170's would be a better match so I bought a pair of them.

Dave, I have been learning about and contemplating different room treatments and a question occurred to me about the Sierra. Correct me if I'm wrong, but with the Sierra in particular and to a lesser extent with your other speakers, you've designed them to sound very good at many listening positions, not just ideal from one or two "sweet" spots.

If this is the case, would it be true that your speakers are then radiating mid & high frequencies off to the sides at least to some degree, perhaps more so than what's generally the case with most other mfg. speakers?

This question came to mind when I was reading an article by Ethan Winer which addresses the question of front wall reflections and 1" to 2" panel treatments, and the lack of a need for them in most cases. The gist of it being that these type of treatments aren't necessary given that few speakers radiate anything 500Hz or above off to the rear or sides of the speaker and that's the only thing addressable by such panels. Pertinent comments quoted below:

http://www.realtraps.com/art_front-wall.htm
Unfortunately, it's very difficult to find polar data for consumer loudspeakers - even very expensive models - probably because speaker manufacturers don't want you to know how directional their speakers really are at higher frequencies. They want you to believe you'll get lush, full sound with great imaging no matter where you are in the room.

Loudspeakers simply do not radiate much mid and high frequency energy toward that (front) wall.

Hi Cruel,

Happy to answer your questions!

Dave, I have been learning about and contemplating different room treatments and a question occurred to me about the Sierra. Correct me if I'm wrong, but with the Sierra in particular and to a lesser extent with your other speakers, you've designed them to sound very good at many listening positions, not just ideal from one or two "sweet" spots.

Off-axis performance is an important factor in the design of all of our loudspeakers. With the Sierra-1, the off-axis performance was actually given higher priority than the on-axis response…

If this is the case, would it be true that your speakers are then radiating mid & high frequencies off to the sides at least to some degree, perhaps more so than what's generally the case with most other mfg. speakers?

Loudspeakers radiate sound in all directions (to the front, sides and even rear), some more than others and the lower the frequency the less directional it becomes (wider dispersion), the key is in controlling the radiation (dispersion) to allow for a uniform in-room response. The Sierra-1 was designed from the ground up for symmetrical dispersion up to about 20-25 degrees off-axis. For example, the response 15 degrees to the right of the speakers matches closely to the response 15 degrees above (or below) the speaker. This is similar to the dispersion characteristics of a single point source (single full range driver or co-axial type full range driver) which our studies have found to deliver a more cohesive and accurate in-room response.

This question came to mind when I was reading an article by Ethan Winer which addresses the question of front wall reflections and 1" to 2" panel treatments, and the lack of a need for them in most cases. The gist of it being that these type of treatments aren't necessary given that few speakers radiate anything 500Hz or above off to the rear or sides of the speaker and that's the only thing addressable by such panels. Pertinent comments quoted below:

I agree with Ethan although I haven’t read the entire article. As I mentioned above, the lower the frequency, the less directional, conversely, the higher the frequency the more directional.. The 500Hz figure he mentions is just an average, the precise number depends on a few factors such as the baffle sizes of the speaker etc. While I am a fan of wall treatments behind speakers, 1” – 2” thick panels will have little effect. To effectively absorb/eliminate all reflections from 500Hz and up, you will need a panel about 12” in depth! A 2” panel mounted flush to a wall will effectively absorb all frequencies from about 3.5kHz and up and would be recommended highly for side-wall and ceiling reflections…

Unfortunately, it's very difficult to find polar data for consumer loudspeakers - even very expensive models - probably because speaker manufacturers don't want you to know how directional their speakers really are at higher frequencies. They want you to believe you'll get lush, full sound with great imaging no matter where you are in the room.

I only agree with the fact that it is hard to obtain polar response measurements from manufacturers. I don’t believe it is because manufacturers don’t want consumers to see them, more so that I am not so sure that many these days use them or have the necessary equipment to take them. To get truly accurate results, you really need to take the measurements on the finished product rather than model it using software. Taking this type of measurement is complex. It requires 72 measurements to cover all 360 degrees (5 degree increments). We use a fully automated system to take this measurement so all I need to do is set the speaker in position and hit “go” :) ---- 20 minutes later, I have all the data I need.


Loudspeakers simply do not radiate much mid and high frequency energy toward that (front) wall.

Agreed!

Hope this helps!

Dave, thanks very much for the detailed response. One pt. of clarification though, if you would please...

........... While I am a fan of wall treatments behind speakers, 1” – 2” thick panels will have little effect. To effectively absorb/eliminate all reflections from 500Hz and up, you will need a panel about 12” in depth! A 2” panel mounted flush to a wall will effectively absorb all frequencies from about 3.5kHz and up and would be recommended highly for side-wall and ceiling reflections…





Don't you mean "500Hz and down", not up?

Just an FYI to the readers of the thread. I'll be putting my pristine natural-finish Sierra 1's up for sale in the next couple of days along with the custom matching fillable stands that I built for them. I have all of the original materials, but just got rid of the boxes about a month and a half ago when we started finishing our basement. The Sierras probably have less than 150 total hours on them, as they have been used solely in a secondary system in our office which is adjacent to our family room where the main hi-fi setup is. We've since added a theater in the basement and I'll be moving the electronics in our office to the basement. I'm flexible on price and I'll double box both the speakers and the stands and ship via UPS. PM if interested with an offer and keep an eye out for the ad.

Jason

Don't you mean "500Hz and down", not up?
500hz and below would require material thicker than 12" to absorb all the frequencies.

Dave, thanks very much for the detailed response. One pt. of clarification though, if you would please...

Don't you mean "500Hz and down", not up?

Nope --- As frequency decreases, the longer the wavelength. The longer the wavelength, the thicker the acoustic material required to convert the full waveform into heat (effectively absorbing it thus nullifying the reflection).

500Hz and up :)

Hope this helps!

ok, I assume this is just some kind of nomenclature misunderstanding..

Curtis above seems to agree with the way I've worded it, i.e., lower frequencies below, say, 500Hz, require the much thicker (12" or what have you) absorption than the higher, above 500Hz frequencies, which can be fully absorbed by much thinner treatments.

Unless by "500Hz and up" you mean as in "up in length of the waves" which are associated with the lower than 500Hz frequencies?


I'm probably missing something really obvious here. :o

12" in panel depth would cover frequencies down to 500hz. Below 500hz, would require a thicker panel.

So, a 12" panel depth would cover frequencies higher than 500hz. I would think that is what Dave means by "500hz and up".

For those in the market, here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/vbclassified.php?do=ad&id=4159) is the ad...

Jason

12" in panel depth would cover frequencies down to 500hz. Below 500hz, would require a thicker panel.

So, a 12" panel depth would cover frequencies higher than 500hz. I would think that is what Dave means by "500hz and up".

Thanks, Curtis.

12", huh? wow! I would think a more practical depth to accomplish a substantial majority of absorption for frequencies above 500Hz would be more in the realm of 2" to 4".

anyway, I'll drop this as we've I've veered this thread off topic for too long.

Hey guys,

I've got a chance to Pick up a Piano Gloss pair of Sierras, used. Anything to look out for with Used Sierras?

I'm also buying these blind, so i might be looking to resell these. I'll let you know!

Hey guys,

I've got a chance to Pick up a Piano Gloss pair of Sierras, used. Anything to look out for with Used Sierras?

I'm also buying these blind, so i might be looking to resell these. I'll let you know!
Other than obvious shipping damage...you should be good to go. There have been some reports of the waveguide around the tweeter being jarred loose from shipping, but it is just a pressfit piece easier to put on than the grille.....so if that happens, just pop it back in.

Other than obvious shipping damage...you should be good to go. There have been some reports of the waveguide around the tweeter being jarred loose from shipping, but it is just a pressfit piece easier to put on than the grille.....so if that happens, just pop it back in.
I am still relatively new at the audio game, and I have five Sierras on order. How would I know if any waveguides were loose, what exactly would I hear and/or see?

I am still relatively new at the audio game, and I have five Sierras on order. How would I know if any waveguides were loose, what exactly would I hear and/or see?
http://www.ascendacoustics.com/images/products/speakers/SRM1/sr1pb_lft_1_ng_mr.jpg
You see that grey elliptical piece around the tweeter.....just make sure it is in place. Pretty simple, the fit snug...they are either in or not.

There is a thread about it here:
http://forum.ascendacoustics.com/showthread.php?p=27362#post27362

When did you order your Sierras?

I am still relatively new at the audio game, and I have five Sierras on order. How would I know if any waveguides were loose, what exactly would I hear and/or see?

I am pleased to say that this minor issue (if you can even call it that) has now been fully resolved. A specialized flexible adhesive that allows the unique elastomer waveguide to stay flexible has been approved. The waveguide inserts will now stay in place through the worst UPS has to offer :p

Updated ad (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/vbclassified.php?do=ad&id=4159) for those in the market for a mint pair of natural Sierras.

Jason

I usually wouldn't do this, but . . . I live an hour north of Philadelphia. Anybody own the Sierra's nearby that will let me have a listen??

Ascend has a very good 30-Day Policy (http://ascendacoustics.com/pages/support/30dayguar.html) that'll let you test drive the speakers in your own home and return them if you don't like them. You just have to cover shipping charges (which are very reasonable on their end...).

Good luck...if Cleveland and Philly were closer and mine weren't up for sale, I'd offer you a listen.

Jason

o0Lo0P0o - I have bought things built in foreign countries before and usually I don't mind, but at this point in time I would like to support American companies that build here in the USA due to the economic problems we have at home.


Holds especially true in Youngstown, OH where SVS is located!

http://money.cnn.com/2008/04/08/real_estate/radical_city_plan/index.htm?cnn=yes

I have a PB13 and am also curious (also posted on Ascend forums) if anyone is running that sub and the Sierra's...?

I am still relatively new at the audio game, and I have five Sierras on order. How would I know if any waveguides were loose, what exactly would I hear and/or see?

Good choice, I have tried to find a speaker that sounds better than the sierra for 950 and below. It was an impossible task. Enjoy!

o0Lo0P0o -


Holds especially true in Youngstown, OH where SVS is located!

http://money.cnn.com/2008/04/08/real_estate/radical_city_plan/index.htm?cnn=yes

I have a PB13 and am also curious (also posted on Ascend forums) if anyone is running that sub and the Sierra's...?

I have the PB13-Ultra with sierra's and the combination is awesome!

I am currently auditioning a pair of sierra's. I currently have 200 watt monoblocks, but I won't have them much longer, so here's my question. If I keep the Sierra's, do you think there is a $400 difference in SQ between these two set-ups:

Marantz sr8001 125wpc $800

0r

Emotiva XPA-5 210 wpc x 5, or 275 wpc x 2
paired with some sort of reveiver/ pre-pro for around $400. possibly a Marantz SR4002. $1200

I know the extra juice will help, as the Sierra's aren't the most efficient speakers in the world, but I can buy a subwoofer with the price difference.

Any thoughts??

The Marantz 8001 should be plenty for the Sierras. Put the money towards a sub like the HSU VTF-2 MK3.

I would agree. Save the money and buy a sub.

I use to run sierra with HK247 (50x7) and was happy with it. Now, I use it as pre-pro because I got an 200x7amp at exceptional value on Craigslist. If you ask me to take a blind test, I would not be able to differentiate when HK is driving Sierra vs an amp. I typically listen to Movies/Music between 75 to 80 DBs at 11 feet distance and my room has many large openings. HK had no problems driving Sierras and I expect Marantz to be in the same league.
PS - I do not run them full range. I cross them over at 60htz.

I concur with the last two posters. Take the savings and get a better sub that you couldn't otherwise afford (if you were to keep the monoblocks). That, and/or invest in room treatments instead. I'd prioritize either way ahead of the monoblock amps.

The Marantz 8001 should be plenty for the Sierras. Put the money towards a sub like the HSU VTF-2 MK3.

I would agree. Save the money and buy a sub.

I use to run sierra with HK247 (50x7) and was happy with it. Now, I use it as pre-pro because I got an 200x7amp at exceptional value on Craigslist. If you ask me to take a blind test, I would not be able to differentiate when HK is driving Sierra vs an amp. I typically listen to Movies/Music between 75 to 80 DBs at 11 feet distance and my room has many large openings. HK had no problems driving Sierras and I expect Marantz to be in the same league.
PS - I do not run them full range. I cross them over at 60htz.

I concur with the last two posters. Take the savings and get a better sub that you couldn't otherwise afford (if you were to keep the monoblocks). That, and/or invest in room treatments instead. I'd prioritize either way ahead of the monoblock amps.

thanks folks. sounds good to me. I guess I'll have to shop for a sub now . . . what a shame. :D

I thought I would share that I recently upgraded my center speaker from a 340SE to a Sierra-1 to match my left and right Sierra's.

I loved the 340SE but never quite felt it blended like I wanted it. Things sounded great and my wife thought everything sounded awesome but I seemed to be continually trying to adjust the center sound level. I had some bonus money to spend and took the advice of other Ascend owners and upgraded to the Sierra 1 center.

Almost immediately after hooking up the Sierra it was like, "So there it is". A perfect match. Although I had read it I was never totally sold that the front 3 need to match and I was surprised by the significant improvement I heard. Now I just listen to music and movies and enjoy!

Now I have this 340SE center laying around and was wondering, can I use it as a back surround to switch from a 5.1 to a 6.1 surround system? Has anyone tried this? Will I see any benefits or is it wasted effort? My back surrounds are 340SE's so the back three would match if that even matters.

Thoughts?

Michael

Now I have this 340SE center laying around and was wondering, can I use it as a back surround to switch from a 5.1 to a 6.1 surround system? Has anyone tried this? Will I see any benefits or is it wasted effort? My back surrounds are 340SE's so the back three would match if that even matters.

I think you should definitely try it, and bet it would work well.

I think you should definitely try it, and bet it would work well.

Curtis, you were right. It works great for my surround back! :D Watched a little War of the Worlds and it is much more enveloping with 6.1. There is a seen right before the son goes over the hill where jets go flying by and the surround was just awesome. I ended up with not only an upgrade to a Sierra Center but with 6.1 surround too!

Michael

Glad it worked out well.

Did you mounted it on a wall, or is it on a stand?

It is on end on a stand. It a big room and only use about half for my HT.

Michael

Just interested to know what receiver people are using with their Sierras. And if using seperates- which amp?

I'm using a Onkyo 805, and quite satisfied.

I like to listen loud at times. Would that be maxing out the 805?

How loud is loud? 90 db? 100 db? 110db?

The Onkyo 805 should drive these speakers to between 105 to 110 db in 2 channel mode depending upon your room and set-up.

That would be maxed out and I wouldn't take any receiver to max output. At that point you've reached the clipping point and run the risk of blowing out your speakers.

I am having difficulty deciding which one to get. I have looked at the specs. many times. I really don't wan't to spend more than what the 7002 costs at a great discount, but I am now considering the 8002 for an extra $400 over 7002 price, because of the inefficiency of the Sierras. I have 5 Sierras, that I have yet to use. They will be used at full range, at least for now. It appears more people in the Marantz thread go for the 8002, but I figured I would ask here, as well.

Differences I see on 8002:

-15W/ch.- negligible, isn't it?
-Toroidal-based PSU- Is it more reliable? Runs cooler?
-Anti-interference Copper Plated Chassis- Does this preven possible electrical hums?
-Upgraded Binding Posts (Dielectric Protected)- Does that mean if I hook it up incorrectly, it won't short?
-HD Radio- Are you guys using it? I would probably get some use out of it.

Personally, I'd opt for the 8002. For a mere $400 (consider what you spent on your Sierras!), you'll have extra power, extra protection, additional features, and peace of mind that you got the better receiver. Sell off an old piece of gear if you have to justify it, but $400 seems well worth the upgrade.

Jason

I would get the 7002 and then save for a nice 5 channel amp...

Unfortunately, $400 isn't going to get you anywhere near a nice 5-channel amp. Why not opt for the additional power right off the bat, not to mention the upgraded feature-set and hardware and inputs/outputs that the 8002 has to offer. It seems like a small pittance to get their top offering for $400 more than the next tier...

Jason

Besides, do you really think you need more than 125 wpc for the Sierras?

Jason

Unfortunately, $400 isn't going to get you anywhere near a nice 5-channel amp. Why not opt for the additional power right off the bat, not to mention the upgraded feature-set and hardware and inputs/outputs that the 8002 has to offer. It seems like a small pittance to get their top offering for $400 more than the next tier...

Jason

Did I say 400 dollars would get an amp? I said he could save for one if that's what he wanted to do. And that's my suggestion to him instead of a receiver that might be more money than what he wants to spend right now.

15wpc isn't much more at all. You can get a good used 5 channel amp for around $700

I think the dynamics of any good speaker benefit from more power...especially at higher volumes.

Besides, do you really think you need more than 125 wpc for the Sierras?

Jason

Everyones different, mine sounded great with a MCA 50 amp behind them (180X5). I like plenty of headroom but some people don't and that's ok too.

Tools like this are great:

http://www.crownaudio.com/apps_htm/designtools/elect-pwr-req.htm

I'm not suggesting that the Sierras won't benefit from adding an external amp...I would argue otherwise regardless of the speaker if only to alleviate some of the hard work from the AVR...if the budget permits and if you drive the speakers hard regularly. I use an MCA-20 and a Parasound Halo A21 for fronts in both of my rigs to power Paradigm Studio 100's and Dali Euphonia MS-4's respectively. However, if QZ1 can (as a starting point) get a slightly more robust AVR for now that would certainly suffice for the Sierras, that also had a better build quality and features, I would channel the $400 there. Down the road, he can add a respectable amp to power the Sierras if needed.

Jason

Screaming deal!

Re-certified Sierra-1's(natural bamboo) for $678/pr....with free shipping.....

News came via the mailing list this morning and posted here:

http://forum.ascendacoustics.com/showthread.php?t=3588

I bought a pair. Too good a deal to pass up! I'll report back upon receiving them.

I bought a pair. Too good a deal to pass up! I'll report back upon receiving them.
Cool Tony....Looking forward to your thoughts.

Screaming deal!

Re-certified Sierra-1's(natural bamboo) for $678/pr....with free shipping.....



That is a killer deal! That probably would've been enough of a price difference to sway me from the PB's I bought.

That is a killer deal! That probably would've been enough of a price difference to sway me from the PB's I bought.
Well...the piano black is pretty nice though....and you probably got them to fit the room's decor.

Well...the piano black is pretty nice though....and you probably got them to fit the room's decor.

Yep, the PB's are awesome and they definitely go with my room's decor better (and the Kuro ;)).

I really like the natural too though and if they would have fit the room aesthetically I would've gotten them.

The word "Kuro" makes me drool.

I am having difficulty deciding which one to get. I have looked at the specs. many times. I really don't wan't to spend more than what the 7002 costs at a great discount, but I am now considering the 8002 for an extra $400 over 7002 price, because of the inefficiency of the Sierras. I have 5 Sierras, that I have yet to use. They will be used at full range, at least for now. It appears more people in the Marantz thread go for the 8002, but I figured I would ask here, as well.

Differences I see on 8002:

-15W/ch.- negligible, isn't it?
-Toroidal-based PSU- Is it more reliable? Runs cooler?
-Anti-interference Copper Plated Chassis- Does this preven possible electrical hums?
-Upgraded Binding Posts (Dielectric Protected)- Does that mean if I hook it up incorrectly, it won't short?
-HD Radio- Are you guys using it? I would probably get some use out of it.

Hi QZ1,

With a sensitivity rating of approximately 86.5dB, I wouldn't call the Sierra-1 inefficient, they are about average for the category. Like all quality loudspeakers, they will benefit from having more reserve power on hand. However, 15 additional watts is not going to be audible. I would not use this minor increase in wattage as a basis in determining which receiver is right for you.

Hope this helps!

I got my Sierras on Monday and have been playing with them the past couple of days. I am truly amazed that one can purchase this level of quality for such short money. First off, the bass out of these babies is amazing. I pulled out my trusty Infinity Rabos test disk and measured +/-3db from 100hz down to 35 with no dips or peaks. Very impressive. Additionally, the quality of the bass is excellent, tight and controlled with no overhang. I attribute this to a couple of things: excellent bass tuning and an incredibly rigid cabinet. There truly is less "hash" to the sound than I have ever heard.

Tonally they are very neutral and exhibit excellent imaging and nice soundstaging. Central voices are dead center and the separation of instruments, the decoding of the sound is excellent. Again, I think the cabinet contributes greatly or should I say doesn't contribute to the sound. The drivers do their thing without much contribution from the cabinet. The sound is slightly dry with no false ambience which is a good thing, since when the recording has ambience you hear it in all its glory with no editorializing from the cabinet. Dave F is on to something with bamboo (and it's environmentally friendly to boot). Those are my initial impressions but I'm glad I got the email that the recerts were available as they pushed me over the edge to try these amazing speakers.

I got my Sierras on Monday and have been playing with them the past couple of days. I am truly amazed that one can purchase this level of quality for such short money. First off, the bass out of these babies is amazing. I pulled out my trusty Infinity Rabos test disk and measured +/-3db from 100hz down to 35 with no dips or peaks. Very impressive. Additionally, the quality of the bass is excellent, tight and controlled with no overhang. I attribute this to a couple of things: excellent bass tuning and an incredibly rigid cabinet. There truly is less "hash" to the sound than I have ever heard.

Tonally they are very neutral and exhibit excellent imaging and nice soundstaging. Central voices are dead center and the separation of instruments, the decoding of the sound is excellent. Again, I think the cabinet contributes greatly or should I say doesn't contribute to the sound. The drivers do their thing without much contribution from the cabinet. The sound is slightly dry with no false ambience which is a good thing, since when the recording has ambience you hear it in all its glory with no editorializing from the cabinet. Dave F is on to something with bamboo (and it's environmentally friendly to boot). Those are my initial impressions but I'm glad I got the email that the recerts were available as they pushed me over the edge to try these amazing speakers.

Nice read........
what kept you so long:)

dc

what kept you so long:)

HA...I wondered the same thing...but felt he would get around to it eventually. :)

I got my Sierras on Monday and have been playing with them the past couple of days. I am truly amazed that one can purchase this level of quality for such short money. First off, the bass out of these babies is amazing. I pulled out my trusty Infinity Rabos test disk and measured +/-3db from 100hz down to 35 with no dips or peaks. Very impressive. Additionally, the quality of the bass is excellent, tight and controlled with no overhang. I attribute this to a couple of things: excellent bass tuning and an incredibly rigid cabinet. There truly is less "hash" to the sound than I have ever heard.

Tonally they are very neutral and exhibit excellent imaging and nice soundstaging. Central voices are dead center and the separation of instruments, the decoding of the sound is excellent. Again, I think the cabinet contributes greatly or should I say doesn't contribute to the sound. The drivers do their thing without much contribution from the cabinet. The sound is slightly dry with no false ambience which is a good thing, since when the recording has ambience you hear it in all its glory with no editorializing from the cabinet. Dave F is on to something with bamboo (and it's environmentally friendly to boot). Those are my initial impressions but I'm glad I got the email that the recerts were available as they pushed me over the edge to try these amazing speakers.

Hi Tony,

I am very pleased that you are enjoying the speakers, it means a lot to me :)

Hi David,

I am using BJC locking banana plugs; they are able to fully insert into the Denon AVR, but not quite into the Sierra; well, possibly, but I haven't used more than a bit of pressure.

Here they are, on Page 3 of the pdf, (you need to enlarge the page somewhat), and then look at the completed cable:

http://www.bluejeanscable.com/store/speaker/Speaker_cable_termination.pdf

If you notice, the banana part starts with a highly reflective area, it is angled and a bit wider than the rest of the banana; this part is not going into the Sierra terminals, nevertheless, the banana plugs are snug.

So, I wonder if I should use a bit of pressure, or they will run fine the way it is?

I apologize if this has been covered before in the thread, but is anyone using Sierras as nearfield monitors -- say in a desktop setup? If they were to be used in that configuration, at 1m or so, do you think they could be driven adequately with a handful of watts from a small tube setup? Thanks.

I apologize if this has been covered before in the thread, but is anyone using Sierras as nearfield monitors -- say in a desktop setup? If they were to be used in that configuration, at 1m or so, do you think they could be driven adequately with a handful of watts from a small tube setup? Thanks.

Your should likely call/e-mail Ascend and ask them. I don't know about nearfield but there are some threads on the Ascend forum about tubes but 15W is the smallest I recall seeing. http://forum.ascendacoustics.com/index.php

Hi David,

I am using BJC locking banana plugs; they are able to fully insert into the Denon AVR, but not quite into the Sierra; well, possibly, but I haven't used more than a bit of pressure.

Here they are, on Page 3 of the pdf, (you need to enlarge the page somewhat), and then look at the completed cable:

http://www.bluejeanscable.com/store/speaker/Speaker_cable_termination.pdf

If you notice, the banana part starts with a highly reflective area, it is angled and a bit wider than the rest of the banana; this part is not going into the Sierra terminals, nevertheless, the banana plugs are snug.

So, I wonder if I should use a bit of pressure, or they will run fine the way it is?

Hi QZ1,

The binding posts on the Sierra-1 are standard spec. I would try using a bit more pressure to push them in or take a pliers and gently sqeeze the BJC terminations so that they shrink or loosen up ever so slightly.

Have you contacted BJC?

I apologize if this has been covered before in the thread, but is anyone using Sierras as nearfield monitors -- say in a desktop setup? If they were to be used in that configuration, at 1m or so, do you think they could be driven adequately with a handful of watts from a small tube setup? Thanks.

Definitely not a problem within 1 meter distance. The Sierra-1 have a sensitivity of approximately 86dB at 1 watt at 1 meter. That means with 1 watt you will reach 86dB, two speakers = 89dB. 8 watts = 98dB which is far louder than I would recommend for listening ;)

Thank you, David. One last question, if I may. For the same money, would you pick the Sierras in this particular situation over a pair of 170-SEs plus a decent small sub?

I am using BJC locking banana plugs; they are able to fully insert into the Denon AVR, but not quite into the Sierra; well, possibly, but I haven't used more than a bit of pressure.

Do you have the locking collars all the way retracted? If they're forward even a little bit, they won't go in.

Kurt
Blue Jeans Cable (http://www.bluejeanscable.com/store/hdmi-cables/index.htm)

Thank you, David. One last question, if I may. For the same money, would you pick the Sierras in this particular situation over a pair of 170-SEs plus a decent small sub?

Yes --- I would definitely pick a pair of the Sierra-1 over a pair of CBM-170 SE and a small subwoofer. Many of our customers are using the Sierra-1 for music without a subwoofer as they prefer the cohesiveness and accurate transient response provided by the natural bass response of the Sierra-1. In addition, the most important aspects of music listening (the mids and highs) are cleaner and more refined with the Sierra-1.

Remember, you can -always- add a subwoofer at any time...

Hope this helps!

Do you have the locking collars all the way retracted? If they're forward even a little bit, they won't go in.

Yes, they are. I noticed that the collars prevent connections, when I was connecting one of the cables to the AVR. When the plug wouldn't move at all, I stopped, and compared it to the other plug on the cable, and noticed the difference.

Hi QZ1,

The binding posts on the Sierra-1 are standard spec. I would try using a bit more pressure to push them in or take a pliers and gently sqeeze the BJC terminations so that they shrink or loosen up ever so slightly.

Have you contacted BJC?

Well, the Denon AVR connections offer no resistance, whereas the Sierras do, so I guess there isn't a standard, or one of them is not adhering to it.:)

I tried again, this time using what I would subjectively call moderately light pressure, and on each speaker, one plug always connects. On the other terminals (not consistanly positive or negative), it won't insert even with moderate pressure, but, rather than applying more pressure, I re-connect it, and moderate pressure works.

It is baffling that there is a difference. But, it works out with relative ease, so it is ok.

Well, the Denon AVR connections offer no resistance, whereas the Sierras do, so I guess there isn't a standard, or one of them is not adhering to it.:)

I tried again, this time using what I would subjectively call moderately light pressure, and on each speaker, one plug always connects. On the other terminals (not consistanly positive or negative), it won't insert even with moderate pressure, but, rather than applying more pressure, I re-connect it, and moderate pressure works.

It is baffling that there is a difference. But, it works out with relative ease, so it is ok.

This is really quite puzzling but at least the locking banana plugs are now installed properly. Hope you are enjoying the speakers!

Yep, the PB's are awesome and they definitely go with my room's decor better (and the Kuro ;)).

I really like the natural too though and if they would have fit the room aesthetically I would've gotten them.Same here. That's a great deal but the natural bambo just wouldn't look good in my setting.

This is really quite puzzling but at least the locking banana plugs are now installed properly.!
Yes, and I am thinking, with the cables staying attached, that the banana plugs will get just a bit narrower, and be a bit easier to re-attach subsequently, probably uniformly so.
Hope you are enjoying the speakers!
Yes, very much so.:)

Will 150W per speaker from my TX-SR805 be good enough for the Sierras? It will be in the living room with the HDTV and listened at mild volume levels. Probably will add a fathom soon :D.

Will 150W per speaker from my TX-SR805 be good enough for the Sierras? It will be in the living room with the HDTV and listened at mild volume levels. Probably will add a fathom soon :D.
It should be more than fine.

Will 150W per speaker from my TX-SR805 be good enough for the Sierras? It will be in the living room with the HDTV and listened at mild volume levels. Probably will add a fathom soon :D.

I'm using just that combination and it works great.

Will 150W per speaker from my TX-SR805 be good enough for the Sierras? It will be in the living room with the HDTV and listened at mild volume levels. Probably will add a fathom soon :D.


Absolutely! This is more than enough power to deliver full performance from our Sierra-1. I am actually considering pickup up an 805 too, great price!

Please let me know if I can be of any assistance.

I'm using just that combination and it works great.

+1 They are a great match from my perspective!

Same for me.

I finally got my HT to the point last night where I could hook up the three Sierra-1 fronts and two CBM-170 SE surrounds to my Yamaha 663. I didn't have time to run YPAO, but couldn't resist firing it up anyway. I was truly amazed at the sound quality. This is my first home theater, so I don't really have anything to compare it to, but the sound was incredibly clear and full. For the first time in many years I didn't have any trouble at all understanding the dialog even at lower volumes. Music was even better, very pure and sweet. I can't wait to get home from work and listen to them again. I can't see them getting any better after break in as they are already perfect.

The finish on the Sierras was very beautiful. I was a bit worried about b-stock, but wasn't able to find a single flaw in any of them. The WAF was off the scale on these babies. I was also impressed with the individual speaker response graph for each of them.

I did have a small problem in that I could only insert my banana plugs about halfway into the binding posts of the 170 surrounds. The plugs bottomed out about a half inch in. I was tired and probably doing something wrong, but if not, I'll just cut the bananas off when I get home and connect the wires directly.

Thanks again Ascend, I love my speakers!

Are the CBM-170 SE's a good tonal match as rears for 340 SE fronts? or do the 200's fit better?

Are the 170's better matched with Sierras or with 340s?

thank you

Hi wonder,

Are the CBM-170 SE's a good tonal match as rears for 340 SE fronts? or do the 200's fit better?

Both the 170 SE and 200 SE are good tonal matches with our 340 SE. They all use the same tweeter domes and woofer cone materials. The 170 SE is a bit warmer and richer sounding than the 200 SE while the 200 SE offers a more compact size and easier / more versatile placement options.



Are the 170's better matched with Sierras or with 340s? thank you

Do you already own Sierra-1 or 340SE and looking for a set of rears? Or do you own 170 SE and looking to move these to the rears and add new fronts (either 340SE or Sierra-1)? If either of these are the case, please send me an email or PM and I would be happy to discuss which fronts would be more suitable to your listening habits.

Thanks in advance!

Nice award for the Sierras:

Best Of 2008 Blue Note Equipment Awards
(bottom of the page)
http://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/0908/bestof2008.htm

http://forum.ascendacoustics.com/showthread.php?t=3650

Think how much better they'd sound with those Bybee Magic Bullets. :D

Think how much better they'd sound with those Bybee Magic Bullets. :D

I couldn't help but laugh at that too. Oy vey.

Think how much better they'd sound with those Bybee Magic Bullets. :D
LOL!! :D

The reviewer posted this on the Ascend Forum in regards to other reviewed items in the publication:

People often make the mistake of saying "Stereophile said..." or "Enjoythemusic said..." or whatever, but the fact is it's the individual writers' opinions being published. The best editors (and Steve is one of the best in the business) know that it takes a wide variety of viewpoints to make the world go 'round, and allow for that in their publications.

I'm curious to know what stands people are using with their Sierras. Anyone tried the 340 stands?

I'm curious to know what stands people are using with their Sierras. Anyone tried the 340 stands?

That's whhat I use, and that's what Dave recommended for me to use.

Any chance of seeing some pictures of the Sierras on those stands? Does it seem kind of seamless or is there a noticeable transition from orange peel to piano black?

Hello, I am considering a complete 7 (or 8 as they come in pairs) of Sierra 1's as my wife likes the bamboo finish .She told me I have to get new speakers because the current Phase Tech Teatros in rosewood do not match the decor. I currently have 4 tower speakers so I will need stands ,they need to be metal and a brushed aluminum or nickel matte finish. How do these speakers compare to current online companies like SVS MBS-01 ? The price isn't to different but it seems the MBS-01 has a much better tweeter (Scanspeak AirCirc vs the Seas ) I believe the woofer is better in the Sierra despite being smaller than the Peerless driver used in the SVS , also does anyone have any experience with the DIY kits at PartsExpress ? I was also considering buying the DIY Usher (curved sides) or maybe just buying the cabinets and loading them myself with the Dynavox driver and a Jantzen tweeter but the crossover part is kind of difficult you have to get the perfect slope points and tolerances correct or you could have problems like SVS did with there Air Circ failing . any suggestions would be greatly appreciated, Thank you

Any chance of seeing some pictures of the Sierras on those stands? Does it seem kind of seamless or is there a noticeable transition from orange peel to piano black?


Here's one I had put up in the Epik thread. I can take some more with better shots of the Sierra's and their stands this evening if you like.

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y224/kylemitchell/DSC01079s.jpg

Any chance of seeing some pictures of the Sierras on those stands? Does it seem kind of seamless or is there a noticeable transition from orange peel to piano black?

Orange peel? The thing is as far as I know the 340 stands do not come in Piano Black, they use a kind of black matte finish. And that's where it contrasts with the Piano black Sierras.

I use them with my PB sierras in my dedicated HT room, but tell you the truth I don't notice it. I listen to music with eyes closed, or movies with a projector in the dark. So for me looks really doesn't matter. It doesn't look too bad, but you can definitely see the contrast between stands and speakers.

I think the 340SE look absolutely great on the 340 stands, really look like a one piece floorstander. The Sierras look a bit worst to me. The stands are rather big, Sierras not that tall, the PB contrasts with the matte finish of the stands.

IMHO, the Sierras would look better with pillar type stands. Ex: HR/MR http://www.targethifi.co.uk/4598/4790.html. It would give a bit better the monitor look as stand should be thinner than speakers, also black matte might work better that way. But I guess that depends on the setting, in kemitchell's pic it looks nice, seems to match well with the TV furniture in the center and the sub. But where there would be 2 speakers in the room by themselves, more à la 2 channel, slimmer stands might work better.

The grills also change the equation, when looking from front, grill or no grill change the look. Grills + TP stand seem to fit better than no grill, since you see less the PB finish of Sierras from the front, and grill might fit better with stands...

I love the look of the 340 as well. The 340s on those stands is what originally drew my attention to Ascend. If the speakers don’t look good my wife will try to get rid of them. :) I think the Sierras are a better looking speaker but they don’t have the matching stands so it’s a tradeoff.

I’m thinking a pillar is the way to go with the Sierras. The Sanus BF31B and SF30B look interesting but I’m a little worried the Sierra will be too top heavy on the BF31B.

...I’m a little worried the Sierra will be too top heavy on the BF31B.

This is another reason why I went with the 340 stands. I have some big cats and I'd hate to come home and find that they knocked one of my Sierra's over on the floor. :eek:

It may not be any sturdier, but it sure looks that way and gave me a little piece of mind.

You can fill them with sand right? I’m sure their very stable. The BF31B doesn’t have anyway to add weight. The SF30B cost $100 more than the BF31B but I can add sand to weigh them down. I suppose I’ll have a better idea once I get my Sierras.

You can fill them with sand right?

Absolutely. I haven't filled mine yet, but they are pretty stable as is.

Here's a shot Sierra with TP-24 stands, 12 inch DIY sub in background (not used), strat reflection on right ;)

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b133/grandarf/sierra_stands.jpg

As you can see, there is some contrast between them. Bu the difference definitely varies with lighting, as PB & matte definitely reacts differently to ambient light. I was staring a bit at them, like for the first time, and they definitely don't look too bad together :)

...strat reflection on right ;)


Dude, one of my strats is identical to yours. :)

lol yours is sunburst too? Hard to tell from the PB reflection hehe


Aghh! Nope, I wish. One's burgundy w/ a maple fingerboard and one's burgundy (woodgrain) w/ a rosewood fingerboard. I can see the edge of the sunburst on yours know that you mention it.

Here's a shot Sierra with TP-24 stands, 12 inch DIY sub in background (not used), strat reflection on right ;)

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b133/grandarf/sierra_stands.jpg

As you can see, there is some contrast between them. Bu the difference definitely varies with lighting, as PB & matte definitely reacts differently to ambient light. I was staring a bit at them, like for the first time, and they definitely don't look too bad together :)
That piano black gloss finish is super sexy!

Anyone who hasn't heard the Sierra-1's that is looking for a pair of bookshelf speakers in the $1000/pair owes it to themselves to give them a listen. They are among the best bookshelf speakers I've heard, even besting the Dynaudio Contour S1.4's that I heard (price was factored into the decision). You are getting a lot of speaker for the price folks!

even besting the Dynaudio C 1.4's that I heard.....
Nuance is that the Dynaudio S1.4 or C1? You are confusing me! :)

Nuance is that the Dynaudio S1.4 or C1? You are confusing me! :)
Sorry for the confusion - they were the Contour S1.4's. The decision was a very close one, but when factoring in price it was a no brainer for me. I did prefer the tweeter of the Dyn's, but oddly enough the midrange wasn't as full and detailed as it was on the Sierra's. Perhaps this was because the bass was a little bloated and smeared the lower mids. Whatever it was, overall I preferred the Sierra's. ;)

Aghh! Nope, I wish. One's burgundy w/ a maple fingerboard and one's burgundy (woodgrain) w/ a rosewood fingerboard. I can see the edge of the sunburst on yours know that you mention it.

Cool :) I officially have too much time on my hands (http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b133/grandarf/fender_sierra.jpg) :p (meh, strat colors are way off, damn incandescent lighting, if I was not so lazy... Also perspective makes strat bigger than it is)

Cool :) I officially have too much time on my hands :p (meh, strat colors are way off, damn incandescent lighting, if I was not so lazy...)


Ha!!! Nice strat, and good job keeping the thread on topic! :D

Cool :) I officially have too much time on my hands (http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b133/grandarf/fender_sierra.jpg) :p (meh, strat colors are way off, damn incandescent lighting, if I was not so lazy... Also perspective makes strat bigger than it is)

Nice picture -- love it! (might have to borrow it :p )

I'm don't have much experience with bookshelf speakers and was wondering if a set of Sierra's could fill a 3500 cuft room that opens up to a kitchen if used with a good sub. Mainly for HT?

I'm don't have much experience with bookshelf speakers and was wondering if a set of Sierra's could fill a 3500 cuft room that opens up to a kitchen if used with a good sub. Mainly for HT?
Absolutely! But like with all speakers, you will need a receiver/amplifier that will get you to the listening levels you like.

The Sierras can play extemely loud with the proper amount of power.

What were you planning on powering them with?

Absolutely! But like with all speakers, you will need a receiver/amplifier that will get you to the listening levels you like.

The Sierras can play extemely loud with the proper amount of power.

What were you planning on powering them with?

I was thinking maybe a NAD T775 or one of the new emotiva amps.

I'm don't have much experience with bookshelf speakers and was wondering if a set of Sierra's could fill a 3500 cuft room that opens up to a kitchen if used with a good sub. Mainly for HT?

I am using a pair and a center in a room that is 30' wide and 18' deep, and is open to a kitchen that is about 15' x 10'. 9 foot ceilings. Total cubic volume is ~ 6000 cubic feet. These are being powered by 150 watt per channel power amp. I mostly listen to 2-channel music and my kids often ask to me "turn it up" when I play some old motown music :o I am running these full range (no sub) and they *easily* fill the entire space.

These speakers have surprising output capabilities...

Please feel free to contact me directly if I can be of any additional assistance!

Thanks Ascend :)

any recommendations for me? room is pretty small. 50" plasma mounted on right wall.

looking for 2 or 3 set up.

http://www.canalplacecondo.org/images/floorplan_b1.gif

12X20 is the room.. sorry pic is so small

any recommendations for me? room is pretty small. 50" plasma mounted on right wall.

looking for 2 or 3 set up.

http://www.canalplacecondo.org/images/floorplan_b1.gif

12X20 is the room.. sorry pic is so small

Hi Ojready,

Sierra-1 will work very nicely for you in that room! It is open enough to take full advantage of the speaker's superb imaging, but also not too large so that the bass response will be tight and full.

I would be happy to offer additional recommendations, including placement options. Please send me a PM or an email and include the diagram so we can mark it up for you.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sorry if this question has already been answered here... but can the rear port of the Sierras be plugged? If so, what will the benefits or drawbacks be?
Thanks!

Sorry if this question has already been answered here... but can the rear port of the Sierras be plugged? If so, what will the benefits or drawbacks be?
Thanks!

Hi Sbeveraggi,

Yes, the port can be plugged. This is something we are, in fact, working on right now. Please send me a direct email or PM and I would be happy to discuss with you.

Thanks in advance!

Hi Sbeveraggi,

Yes, the port can be plugged. This is something we are, in fact, working on right now. Please send me a direct email or PM and I would be happy to discuss with you.

Thanks in advance!

Thanks for your interest David. :)
Sent you a PM.

David (and sbeveraggi),

You mind piggy-backing (copying) that PM conversation over to me too? I've wondered about the plug question myself from time to time. There are circumstances in which it might come in handy for me, but I'm wondering about the practicality and degree of control allowed by using plugs. Some feedback would help clarify things for me.

*longtime Sierra web-windowshopper*

include me on that pm exchange as well, please... :)

include me on that pm exchange as well, please... :)
Why not post it here I wanna know about plugging the ports???

I too am interested!

Thanks for your interest David. :)
Sent you a PM.

Please share and educate all of us,

Thanks

Since David has mentioned that he was already working on it, I'm sure he will share the results with all of us when he is satisfied with his testing. I'm eagerly waiting for this as well..

yes, he will...

and knowing david, he's not going to release it until he's satisfied with it... which is a good thing... :)

Since David has mentioned that he was already working on it, I'm sure he will share the results with all of us when he is satisfied with his testing. I'm eagerly waiting for this as well..

2012 can't come soon enough! :p You know how it is with those perfectionist types, everything just has to be perfect...

Well at least Ascend speakers are easy on the wallet... Even if you buy every speaker/sub they release, that's what, a new product every 4 years? Much better that than 10 speakers per year (discontinued 2-3 years later)! Also focused on price/performance, so you know you're not paying for fluff or the flavor of the week!

(btw, 2012 isn't official at all...)

Thanks for your interest David. :)
Sent you a PM.

David (and sbeveraggi),

You mind piggy-backing (copying) that PM conversation over to me too? I've wondered about the plug question myself from time to time. There are circumstances in which it might come in handy for me, but I'm wondering about the practicality and degree of control allowed by using plugs. Some feedback would help clarify things for me.

*longtime Sierra web-windowshopper*

include me on that pm exchange as well, please... :)

Why not post it here I wanna know about plugging the ports???

I too am interested!

Please share and educate all of us,

Thanks

Since David has mentioned that he was already working on it, I'm sure he will share the results with all of us when he is satisfied with his testing. I'm eagerly waiting for this as well..

Hi Guys,

AVS is not the place to announce this. It could be construed by some as "marketing".

I will be releasing information by way of our mailing list first, followed by a full discussion on our own forum.

How is the pair of Sierras shipped? 2 individual boxes or 1 box with both speakers inside? Are there any pictures of the shipping boxes?
I'm considering international shipping and fear my countries' postal workers won't handle my future speakers with all the care they deserve... do they come well protected from damage?
Thanks for your help!

one box...

they are double boxed, and well protected...

i suppose if you want pictures bad enough, i could be cajoled into digging the box out of my shed...

trust me, our shipping companies in the united states don't handle stuff with care either... marking something "fragile" on the outside merely is an invitation to throw it into the truck harder... :p

Hi Guys,

AVS is not the place to announce this. It could be construed by some as "marketing".

I will be releasing information by way of our mailing list first, followed by a full discussion on our own forum.

Are we really talking about plugging the ports? How could plugging the ports information be portrayed as marketing? :confused: Guess I too will wait for the announcement!

sbeveraggi: They're very well packed in one double box, but anyway if anything happens the package is insured. And always, when you receive a package, check the boxes... If there's some box damage or if it looks banged up, have the carrier clearly indicate it in detail on the shipping receipt, that could be handy later on in case something got damaged besides the box.

They come very well packaged. Pairs come double boxed in one outer box, centers come double boxed individually. Here's some pics I took when I got mine. Click on the thumbnails for larger pics.

http://img517.imageshack.us/img517/1416/dsc01045ku1.th.jpg (http://img517.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dsc01045ku1.jpg) http://img517.imageshack.us/img517/3706/dsc01046gu9.th.jpg (http://img517.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dsc01046gu9.jpg) http://img517.imageshack.us/img517/4844/dsc01047ou8.th.jpg (http://img517.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dsc01047ou8.jpg) http://img517.imageshack.us/img517/2445/dsc01048yb2.th.jpg (http://img517.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dsc01048yb2.jpg) http://img517.imageshack.us/img517/269/dsc01049hf4.th.jpg (http://img517.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dsc01049hf4.jpg) http://img517.imageshack.us/img517/6135/dsc01050xy8.th.jpg (http://img517.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dsc01050xy8.jpg)

one box...
they are double boxed, and well protected...
i suppose if you want pictures bad enough, i could be cajoled into digging the box out of my shed...
trust me, our shipping companies in the united states don't handle stuff with care either... marking something "fragile" on the outside merely is an invitation to throw it into the truck harder... :p

They're very well packed in one double box, but anyway if anything happens the package is insured. And always, when you receive a package, check the boxes... If there's some box damage or if it looks banged up, have the carrier clearly indicate it in detail on the shipping receipt, that could be handy later on in case something got damaged besides the box.

They come very well packaged. Pairs come double boxed in one outer box, centers come double boxed individually. Here's some pics I took when I got mine. Click on the thumbnails for larger pics.

Thank you all for your responses. They seem to be extremely well packed. Great pics kemitchell!
Just have to check international shipping costs and taxes... almost ready to order and join the Sierra Club.
Hope they sound as good as they look when they arrive!:cool:
I'm desperate to finally start hearing rich, full, enveloping music all around me.... not just the hollow, lifeless sound coming from inside the boxes of my current HITB speakers.:(

Hope they sound as good as they look when they arrive!:cool:


I honestly don't think you'll be dissapointed in the least. :)

nope, i don't think he will either... :)

I now have an Onkyo 904 HITB, consisting on a 110 watts per channel TX-SR505 receiver (will it be enough to power the Sierras until I can upgrade it in a couple of months?) and a 5.1 set of on-wall speakers. It does ok for movies and tv, but I find it lacking for music. My intention is to slowly build a decent setup for my living room.
First, I will replace my mains with Sierras for a 4.1 setup using phantom center.
Then, add a Sierra Center. Later, replace the Onkyo sub (terrible boomy bass) for something small and musical like an SVS SB12+, Rhythmik DS12 or the upcoming Ascend Subwoofer. And finally replace my receiver for a Denon 2809 or similar. I will be using my spare Onkyo speakers only for surround duties on movies.
Any suggestions for my "upgrade plan"?:)

Bump...
Will the Onkyo TX-SR505 receiver be enough to power the Sierras till I can afford something better? It is said to have +100 watts per channel...

Yes that is enough. My receiver is 90W x 7ch and it does fine.

Yes that is enough. My receiver is 90W x 7ch and it does fine.

Great! Thanks CobblestoneHank. :)

Absolutely loving my Sierras! I am surprised I haven't felt the need to buy a subwoofer with these babies. :D

I am surprised I haven't felt the need to buy a subwoofer with these babies. :D

I'm not. ;)

I'm still trying to figure out what sub I want. I want a musical sub but really the Sierras don't need a sub for music. So maybe I only have to worry about the HT aspect.

Cool. While typing this the UPS guy delivered my 200SEs. Time to play. :p

well, to offer a contrary opinion... ;)

imo, as good as the sierra's are for music without a sub, they are even better WITH a (well integrated) sub...

And what sub do you think pairs nice with the Sierras? Since I haven't been in a rush I'm kind of waiting to see how the Scamp 10 turns out.

not familiar with a "scamp 10", so can't comment on that one...

hmmm... there's probably a lot of "good" answers for that one... there's a lot of "good" subs out there... what's your budget?

imo, a "good" sub will pair with any speakers... you don't have to worry about timbre matching, etc. with a sub... it's more about actual integration (i.e. xover selection, level matching, positioning, etc.) than anything else...

I'm looking in the area of $300 - $400 and I have a medium size room. I don't want to go too big because I have rabbits in my living room. :rolleyes: They're my wife's pets and I don't want to kill them with bass. So anyway I hate boomy subs and I want something fast and clean. I kind of know the HSU vs SVS arguments. HSU has the edge for music and SVS for HT. I've been looking at the PB10, STF-2, Acculine ASub, and the yet to exist Scamp-10.

At first I thought the STF-2 would be what I'm looking for but since the Sierras already do so good with music maybe the PB10 is the way to go.

IMO Since your spoiled with the Sierra's :) Why not up your budget and get a sub that will match the same quality? At least a Hsu Vtf-2-3, Vtf3.3 Svs Pb12, Epik Knight or Valor?
The Pb10 is a good sub but you have Sierras :)

I think Ironmike has the right idea. For the Sierras, $300-400 is going to be a tough match.

To Mike's list I would add the 12" Rythmik sealed sub. It is double what you want to spend, but the sound quality is in the same league as the Sierras.

I think Ironmike has the right idea. For the Sierras, $300-400 is going to be a tough match.

To Mike's list I would add the 12" Rythmik sealed sub. It is double what you want to spend, but the sound quality is in the same league as the Sierras.
I was just going to get him started in the $5-600 range the watch him work his way up :) Those are Sierra's if your getting a sub up the budget save for a year if needed IME/IMO

i'd agree with both curtis and mike... your best option is to save a few more bucks at this time... i think that if i was looking for a new sub under 1k right now, the rythmik people would be getting my money... :)

to be frank, "$300-$400" and "good sub" can't go together in the same sentence...

lol I thought those were good subs. Is the PB12 really a better quality sub than the PB10? I figured it was just an increase in the volume output. The same question for the VTF-3. Is it just volume or quality? Quality is good but I don't play things very loud anymore. :)

I've already been looking at the Rythmik subs but with an enclosure they are a bit more than I want to spend. I have the tools to build one but not the experience to build furniture quality. It wouldn't look very good.

Those subs you mention are good for lower end. But you have bookshelves in a much better league. You will be happier is you get a sub closer to there performance. Research Epik Valor. If you want to keep the price low and still get decent HT. If your room isn't to large say under 2,000^3 it 's a good buy. Sound good for music @$620 shipped. If you have a bigger budget that opens a lot more subs. IMO anything less than a Valor won't do the Sierra justice. JMO
But if you want to keep the budget down a Pb10 is good for HT in a small room. But you don't want to end up like this.
http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f98/ironmike86/setup/DSC06111.jpg
http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f98/ironmike86/setup/DSC06121.jpg
Do it right I'm just trying to save you $$ My room is @2,000^3 I sit 6-7' away. Bass is addicting. When I get time I want to build Dual 18" in my space :)

Has anyone tried Sierras with the SVS SB12? Is it "musical" enough to keep up with them?
How do you think it compares with the Rythmik DS12?

Has anyone tried Sierras with the SVS SB12? Is it "musical" enough to keep up with them?
How do you think it compares with the Rythmik DS12?
Check out this thread on the Ascend forum if you haven't done so already.
http://forum.ascendacoustics.com/showthread.php?t=3561

Personally, I have not heard the SB12, but I would put my money of the Rythmik.

Check out this thread on the Ascend forum if you haven't done so already.
http://forum.ascendacoustics.com/showthread.php?t=3561

Personally, I have not heard the SB12, but I would put my money of the Rythmik.

Thanks Curtis, I already have.
In fact, I also posted my preferences regarding the upcoming Ascend Sub.

1) Sound Quality ("musical" and "tight" are my priorities)
2) Size (15x15x15 would be great)
3) Finish quality (Piano Black to match the beautiful Sierras)
4) Deep Bass (doesn't need to go lower than 20hz)
5) Output Capabilities (just add more subs if you want to get evicted!)

"Something that beats the performance of the SVS SB12+ or Rythmik DS12 in a similar package for <$1000 would be fantastic! "

Does Dave still do a trade in program, 340SE's L/C/R for Sierra's? I am looking at upgrading.

Thanks

Does Dave still do a trade in program, 340SE's L/C/R for Sierra's? I am looking at upgrading.

Thanks

I'd ask him. Probably the quickest way to get in touch with him is to PM him over in the Ascend community (http://forum.ascendacoustics.com/index.php). He's always been prompt in replying to me in the past.

Has anyone tried Sierras with the SVS SB12? Is it "musical" enough to keep up with them?

I have... :) I think the SB12 is a very good choice to go with our Sierra-1.

How do you think it compares with the Rythmik DS12?

I definitely prefer the Rythmik 12 (servo, sealed) compared to the SB-12, however, the Rythmik 12 is a larger subwoofer.

According to Rythmik their enclosures are "15-3/4"(W) x 15-3/4"(H) x 16-1/2(D) without the grille. Grille adds 1-1/4" to the depth".
The SVS SB12+ size is approx. 15” deep x 14" wide x 14 " high.
Doesn't seem to be much of a difference considering the Rythmik is supposed to have better SQ. However, the SB12+ should be getting a driver upgrade to the new "plus 12.4" pretty soon.
There are also some rumors about an upcoming Ascend Sub... do you happen to know anything about it? ;)


I have... :) I think the SB12 is a very good choice to go with our Sierra-1.
I definitely prefer the Rythmik 12 (servo, sealed) compared to the SB-12, however, the Rythmik 12 is a larger subwoofer.

There are also some rumors about an upcoming Ascend Sub... do you happen to know anything about it? ;)

well, we know he's working on it...

of course, he's probably wasting time doing stuff like sleeping, eating, doing stuff with his family... slacker... :D

well, we know he's working on it...
of course, he's probably wasting time doing stuff like sleeping, eating, doing stuff with his family... slacker... :D

I know I'm not getting any sleep till I receive my new Sierras! :D
They have already been shipped!

A question. I have my 340SE mains mounted about 4-5 inches away from the wall on B-Tech BT-77 mounts. My center 340SE is on a shelf above my TV and its about 10 inches from the wall. My system is always run "small" crossed at 80hz. My room is about 16ft X 18ft wide open to a kitchen. The main seating area is about 14 feet away from the front 3 speakers. I used an Emotiva LPA-1 amplifier which is high current. Considering this set up, do you think I would benefit from getting Sierra's to replace the 340's? Will I be able to hit relatively high SPL's with the Sierra's? As far as my listening habits, I am about 60% movies 40% music.

Thanks

I know I'm not getting any sleep till I receive my new Sierras! :D
They have already been shipped!

sleep now, because you won't want to once they arrive... ;)

A question. I have my 340SE mains mounted about 4-5 inches away from the wall on B-Tech BT-77 mounts. My center 340SE is on a shelf above my TV and its about 10 inches from the wall. My system is always run "small" crossed at 80hz. My room is about 16ft X 18ft wide open to a kitchen. The main seating area is about 14 feet away from the front 3 speakers. I used an Emotiva LPA-1 amplifier which is high current. Considering this set up, do you think I would benefit from getting Sierra's to replace the 340's? Will I be able to hit relatively high SPL's with the Sierra's? As far as my listening habits, I am about 60% movies 40% music.

Thanks

Yes, If you listen to 40% music, you will benefit. I have a room with large openings as well. I drive the speakers using Outlaw 770, and do get the high SPL out of them with clean sound.

Yes, If you listen to 40% music, you will benefit. I have a room with large openings as well. I drive the speakers using Outlaw 770, and do get the high SPL out of them with clean sound.

Sam1000,
Did you go from 340SE to Sierras? If so, you are obviously happy with the Sierra's HT performance?

well, we know he's working on it...

of course, he's probably wasting time doing stuff like sleeping, eating, doing stuff with his family... slacker... :D


Sleep? How dare you remind me of something that was lost to me with the birth of my 2nd child, who is now 2 and *still* can't make it through one darn night :p

I know where George Romero got his inspiration from... those aren't zombies... they are actually dad's with 2 year old girls :cool:

Dang you, Ascend (David Fabicant)! With my Sierras L/C/R (upgraded from 340's), and 2 pair of HTM200e's as surrounds, I've had a SVS PB10 sub for 2 years that I've been quite content with. Now I hear that you are going to produce a sub, which means I'll probably get interested in it! Will upgradeitis never have a cure?

Dang you, Ascend (David Fabicant)! With my Sierras L/C/R (upgraded from 340's), and 2 pair of HTM200e's as surrounds, I've had a SVS PB10 sub for 2 years that I've been quite content with. Now I hear that you are going to produce a sub, which means I'll probably get interested in it! Will upgradeitis never have a cure?

That upgrade worth it to you? I am still considering it.

That upgrade worth it to you? I am still considering it.

That's a very good question. I think the answer is 'yes', though I was quite pleased with the 340's. With a large room (mine is only ~ 2200 cu ft) the 340's might even have been better, but in a medium/small room I think clarity of the Sierras is noticeable. But I'm definitely not an audiophile, so not the best person to make this evaluation. (Had I not been able to afford the upgrade, I would have be content to stay with the 340's. But I was able to sell them for ~ 75% of what I paid, so it was not a big outlay.)

Sam1000,
Did you go from 340SE to Sierras? If so, you are obviously happy with the Sierra's HT performance?

Yes on both, I did go from 340SE to Sierra and I'm very happy with them.

My new Sierras have just arrived! :D
I've been listening to them for the last 2 or 3 hours with my modest Onkyo TX-SR505 :o and cheap 16 gauge lamp cable :(
I think I'm in love! I can't imagine what these speakers can do with a proper amp...
So far I tried them full range, crossed over at 60 and 80 to my subpar Onkyo sub (Soon to be replaced with F12 SE).
I'll post some pics and a full "non-audiophile/average joe" review next week.
Now back to enjoying musical bliss...

My new Sierras have just arrived! :D


Congrats!

I'm not an expert, don't have golden ears, lack technical vocabulary and English is not my first language :o. Anyway, I will try to make this review as useful as I can. At least for newbies like myself.

Reason to Upgrade: My Onkyo setup was ok for HT, but Music was almost unlistenable most of the time. Made me stop buying and listening to CDs. Listening habits: 70% music, 30% HT.
Previous Experiences with Speakers: Not many. I own an Onkyo 5.1 HTIB model 904. I have heard a pair of B&W mid-nineties 6 series towers extensively at my parents house (like them very much, by the way). I have also auditioned (for very brief periods of time and in very poor listening conditions) PSB T45, T55 and T65, Monitor Audio RS6, RS8 and GS10, B&W 704 and 805, Energy RC60, KEF iQ5, iQ7 and iQ9. For one reason or another, none of them was exactly what I needed. Too expensive, too big, too ugly, too warm, too bright, etc.
Purchasing Experience: Superb. Mail support during the whole process, even from David Fabrikant himself. All questions answered promptly, all concerns taken care of.
Packaging: Double boxed, strong and thick styrofoam protection, thin cloth covering the speakers. You would have to hit the box with an axe to damage the speakers during shipping.
Physical Appearance: Beautiful piano black finish. Looks very durable and is almost mirrorlike. Heavy, very solid feel when handling them. They look and feel like premium speakers.
Current Setup: 4.1 living room setup, Sierra-1 RL, no center, Onkyo HTIB rear speakers, Onkyo TX-SR505 receiver, PS3. Room is roughly 25x12x8 feet with a 12x12x8 listenig area. No room treatments, no bass management. Front speakers are positioned on entertainment center (I'll post a pic later) and rears are on-wall.
Listening Impressions:
-As expected, night and day difference between the Sierras and the Onkyos. I know comparing them is extremely unfair, but let's just say improvement was HUGE and EVIDENT from the very first note.
-Instruments sounded alive and voices projected noticeably filling the room. Lots of detail and separation, I could hear instruments I never knew were in the recording in the first place.
-I always wondered what you guys referred to when talking about clarity and transparency. I now know. Sorry for the grouse analogy, but it's like the Sierras removed a ball of wax from my ears and they can now hear what they're supposed to hear.
-One of the speakers I auditioned before (won't say which one) was praised as being very "neutral" in many professional reviews. When I listened to it, I believed it to be hollow, flat and lifeless. Nothing in the music being played caught my attention... I was afraid the same thing could happen with the Sierras. I really don't know if the Sierras are "neutral" or not, but let me tell you they aren't flat and lifeless at all. To my ears they sound very lively and engaging all the time.
-Instruments and voices never seem to come out from inside the boxes. My center channel appears to be on, even though it's not. I sometimes hear drums coming from behind the speakers, guitars a couple of feet in front of them and cymbals near the ceiling. Don't think I'll be buying a center channel anytime soon ;).
-Bass is impressive considering their size, similar to small towers. It is also very tight and punchy. Sierras can hold their own on most music, but benefit from a sub on very bass heavy tracks. I found the Sierras to handle the 80-60hz region much better than my crappy Onkyo sub, so I decided cross them over at 60hz. IMO it will take a very good sub to beat the Sierras from 80 to 60hz.
-As you can see, I really love my new Sierras and will definitely keep them forever. However, one thing should be noted. They do require power to get loud. My poor little Onkyo receiver has to sweat a lot to get them to sing. The volume knob goes up to 75, and I have to set it to about 60 to listen loud. Before the Sierras, setting it to around 50 would get me similar results.

Summing up, I believe the Sierras offer high quality and full sound from a small and beautiful package. They make me enjoy listening to stereo music again. Probably more than ever. Even my wife loves them!:D
Combined with the new F-12 SE sub, they may be the perfect solution for medium living room setups.

so, you like them, huh? ;) :D

so, you like them, huh? ;) :D

I may be some kind of a pervert... but I think my new Sierras make me horny. :p

The thought of plugging its rear port has crossed my mind a few times... :D

I may be some kind of a pervert... but I think my new Sierras make me horny. :p

lol... after being married for a long time, i think i can relate... :D

fwiw, i too prefer using the sub with mine for music...

Any new word on a sealed version of the Sierra 1 coming out soon?

Dave has announced a raffle to benefit the fight against cancer.
http://forum.ascendacoustics.com/showthread.php?p=30216#post30216 (http://forum.ascendacoustics.com/showthread.php?p=30216#post30216)

Interesting introduction of port plugs (i.e. "sealed" Sierra): http://forum.ascendacoustics.com/showthread.php?t=3781

Very interesting! I wonder what the recommendation would be primarily for HT use; since the A plug integrates more easily with a sub, would this be the choice?

Cool, so not sold separately? (A & B)?

Cool, so not sold separately? (A & B)?
Looks like you can buy the types in seperate sets, or all together.

Looks like you can buy the types in seperate sets, or all together.

Pair Q-Plug kit (4 plugs, 2 of each) = $31.00, includes domestic shipping

Center Q-Plug kit (2 plugs, 1 of each) = $19.00, includes domestic shipping

Pair + Center kit (6 plugs in total, 3 of each) = $43.00, includes domestic shipping

It seems that they're always sold A+B, which is a bit weird considering that they can't be both used at the same time, and that they're fairly different from each other...

It seems that they're always sold A+B, which is a bit weird considering that they can't be both used at the same time, and that they're fairly different from each other...

I think that the price is so modest that it doesn't make much sense not just to put both together.

Looks like you can buy the types in seperate sets, or all together.

Curtis, your PM box is full! :)

Why do the CMT series use 5/8" MDF opposed to 3/4?

Curtis, your PM box is full! :)
Cleared out now.

Why do the CMT series use 5/8" MDF opposed to 3/4?
It has been mentioned before that with those speakers, the differences were negligible.

Why do the CMT series use 5/8" MDF opposed to 3/4?

Front baffle is 3/4", rears and sides are 5/8". The 340 is also well braced internally...

I know this is subjective, but I'd like to know what Sierra-1 owners would recommend for a receiver at 1K or under. I'm currently running my Sierra's on a Pioneer 1015TX, and though they sound great, I'd like to give them something better to really show off what they can do.

Thanks

I know this is subjective, but I'd like to know what Sierra-1 owners would recommend for a receiver at 1K or under. I'm currently running my Sierra's on a Pioneer 1015TX, and though they sound great, I'd like to give them something better to really show off what they can do.

Thanks

I had a Pio 1014 and liked it very much, but for a yr or so now have had a Onkyo 805. If you can still find one, I think it is a great choice (better than its 'replacement', the 806), esp if it has the latest FW. I think this has been a very popular AVR here on the Forum.

I know this is subjective, but I'd like to know what Sierra-1 owners would recommend for a receiver at 1K or under. I'm currently running my Sierra's on a Pioneer 1015TX, and though they sound great, I'd like to give them something better to really show off what they can do.
If you are happy with the the 1015TX(I'm not very familiar with it), I would think about looking at used amps for the for the L/R channel and using the receiver as a pre/pro.

I had a Pio 1014 and liked it very much, but for a yr or so now have had a Onkyo 805. If you can still find one, I think it is a great choice (better than its 'replacement', the 806), esp if it has the latest FW. I think this has been a very popular AVR here on the Forum.
I've been told that if you have a Circuit City near you that is going out of business, you might be lucky enough to find the 805 for less than $400!

I have my Sierra-1's running off of a $100 Onkyo TX-SR304b, they sound super to me.

I think that the price is so modest that it doesn't make much sense not just to put both together.
Well 'so modest' is debatable, but it's true that foam seems to be expensive... I remember shopping around to buy two foam ear pad replacements for my Grados and being given a 50$ price tag at local shops... Ex: http://www.musicdirect.com/product/73556 Although Amazon now seems to sell some for much less...

Anyhow, Dave stated that he needed to buy a lot to keep prices low, so I figure it was either buying a lot and selling in kits was better than buying fewer and selling individually for a little less... Buying a lot and selling individually probably wasn't a viable option...

But yeah, thinking about it, ~7.50$ per plug is pretty cheap. You do get four for thirty bucks...

It 'sounds' to me that the Plug A version would be a good idea for L/C/R Sierra's crossed at 80 Hz with a sub. Have I read Dave's writeup correctly?

I see that you've received an answer of sorts in the Ascend forum. I guess I didn't read the product description very carefully as I had thought the custom plugs were in lieu of applying crossover settings (instead of running "large"). Turns out that they work in concert with or independently of whatever crossover settings you choose to enable. Somebody correct me if I'm wrong.

I know this is subjective, but I'd like to know what Sierra-1 owners would recommend for a receiver at 1K or under. I'm currently running my Sierra's on a Pioneer 1015TX, and though they sound great, I'd like to give them something better to really show off what they can do.

Thanks

Reading some of Dave F.'s advice on this question over the years, I think he would say that many receiver/amp brands would complement his speakers. Choose the feature set and price point that works for you, and as long as you have enough amp power to drive the speakers at the volume you like to play them and in the size room you have, you will be good to go.

He doesn't seem to venture into the "this receiver sounds better/warmer/more detailed than this other one" advice-giving malarkey, which makes me respect him all the more. Conversely, there is another ID speaker guy that does overstep into some questionable territory, which has tarnished my respect for the (otherwise great) man a little bit.

So has anyone converted their tweeter to the metal dome? Third party tests show much lower high order distortion.

http://www.madisound.com/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=149&products_id=1702

So has anyone converted their tweeter to the metal dome? Third party tests show much lower high order distortion.

http://www.madisound.com/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=149&products_id=1702
auger, the tweeter in the Sierra is not a standard "off the shelf" Seas. Similar of course, but incorporates some changes specific to Ascend. Though definitely an interesting proposition.

I had a Pio 1014 and liked it very much, but for a yr or so now have had a Onkyo 805. If you can still find one, I think it is a great choice (better than its 'replacement', the 806), esp if it has the latest FW. I think this has been a very popular AVR here on the Forum.

I have the 805 and I have been very happy with it, I believe it is an excellent choice as well for the money. I was able to update the FW to the latest version which eliminates the audio delay issue.

Bill

Reading some of Dave F.'s advice on this question over the years, I think he would say that many receiver/amp brands would complement his speakers.

He doesn't seem to venture into the "this receiver sounds better/warmer/more detailed than this other one" advice-giving malarkey, which makes me respect him all the more.

What he has said before is that he likes ICE amps :D

So has anyone converted their tweeter to the metal dome? Third party tests show much lower high order distortion.

Hi Auger,

Definitely not recommended. The metal dome is not interchangeable with the soft dome in our speaker. The two domes have different frequency responses (the soft dome is more linear) and the metal dome has a break up mode at just above 20kHz which would require compensation in the crossover. In addition, our version of this tweeter is not the same as the stock (off-the-shelf) version...

I'm looking to replace a pair of 10 year old Definitive Tech BP30's and 2002 center channel sometime soon and really want to get it right. Generally a "give me your opinion" post gets a "listen for yourself" response, so I'm only going to ask a couple quick questions. My only real criteria in my next purchase is that I get something neutral (don't like brightness) that does well for both audio and HT. Soundstage is important, bass response is not, as they will be paired with a sub. I'm gearing towards bookshelf speakers, as (imo) they seem to be best for HT.

I'm very interested in the Sierra's, based on a lot of the rave reviews here on AVSForum. I am all about supporting the direct internet dealer and the guys that try to do it right for less money (I own a SVS PB13 Ultra). My only concern is purchasing speaker sound unheard. I know Ascend and Salk etc. have good return policies, but it still seems like a bit of a hassle.

1. Is there anyone in Columbus, OH that has them that would be willing to give me a listen?

2. Anyone listened to these things side by side with any more traditional manufacturers like Dynaudio, B&W, Paradigm or whatever or know of any reviews that have done so?

3. Kinda back to #2. is this a "best for the money speaker," or is it truly a "world class bookshelf?" I'm ok spending more. I'm more interested in quality than cost.

enjoy the music and ssav compared them to the Dynaudio Focus 140 and 110.

http://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/0907/ascend_acoustic_sierra_1.htm

http://www.audiovideonews.com/onhifi/20070901.htm

Stereophile also had a quib about the Paradigm Sig one or two... Hmm.. ok not stereophile soundstage: http://forum.ascendacoustics.com/showthread.php?t=3136

If price does not matter, then imho you should spend more. The Sierras are absolutely great at their price point, but, spending more money gets you more speaker. For example, I really liked the Dynaudio Saphire, or the Dynaudio Confidence, I'd recommend them. JMLabs Utopias... etc. There's a lot of great speakers, and if you're swimming and money and it's coming out of your ears, then definitely do not get 1000$ speakers. Just spend the 5000$, 10000$, or whatever.

IMHO, B&Ms don't really compare well to Ascend speakers. Cost quite a bit more and/or have inferior performance. I'm not a B&W fan so IMHO 600 and CM line really aren't close... Dynaudio, again, costs you quite a bit more to get similar performance and imho it's really hard to justify the difference in price/performance... Paradigm, again, similar. But hey, when quality/performance matters more than cost, then the equation changes, and going up the lines you will (well should...) get to speakers which outperforms the Sierras, they'll cost quite a bit more, but if that doesn't matter...

Another example, last local hifi show, very few speakers impressed me (probably close to hundred systems). Kef Muon was there for example, anyhow. Maybe I'm spoiled with Ascend, but few systems impressed me. It's easy to have 'great' sound with >25000$ of gear, but it's really not that impressive when compared to what the 900$ Sierras give you... "Pay 5x or 10x more and only get this?!". Even if they cost significantly more, most wouldn't even blow away the Sierras... Marginally better, yes, but often, they did some things better and some things worst, which is quite ridiculous if you ask me, since the speakers were really in different price categories... Some didn't even sound better then my 2000$ rig at home... :rolleyes: (but the show rooms probably didn't help...)

But one other speaker which I liked and wasn't obscenely price, 'winner' if you could call it that, were the ProAcs Response D Two. They sounded good, but at a 'reasonable' price... Being 3000$... Which was one of the cheapest speakers there :rolleyes: And honestly, they somewhat reminded me of the Sierras. Ascend Sierras at < 1000$ offers really fantastic performance. I really wouldn't see myself popping 2000$ or 3000$ for another speaker... The price/performance increase ratio wouldn't be very good... But... If you shop around, say 3000-5000$, go audition a bunch, find the better/worst, and the best of the class should definitely sound better than the Sierras. 1000-2000$ though I wouldn't wager that many B&M speakers would 'win' vs Sierras... And if you did find some, then it might be hard to justify spending 50% or 100% more... Ascend bang for the buck is really hard to beat...

Just installed the new Sierra's tonight, and I have to say I am thoroughly impressed. (Thanks to cschang for letting me demo them at his house last night!)

Short story, I picked up the Onkyo 805, the Sierra 1's at LR and C, and a HSU VTF2MK3 sub. When I finally got everything wired up, I brought my girlfriend into the living room and played some music. She said it was awesome, but maybe we should turn the sub down a bit in case it is disturbing our new neighbors. The catch is that the sub wasn't even on! The midbass kick on these little boxes is pretty special. I'm really happy and they are the perfect size and look for our living room (black and unobtrusive). The living room is pretty sparse and terrible acoustically. Once we're finished decorating and get the new rug, furniture, and wall decor going I am hopeful that the system will sound even better -- we just moved in a few weeks ago.

Glad you are enjoying them!!

But now what are you going to do when the sub is on? :D Start making friends with the neighbors....maybe invite them over for a movie.