***The Official Ascend Acoustics Sierra Thread*** [Text View] - Page 9

Grandarf

07-25-10, 11:39 AM

Hard to say, the Sierras have always been very good performers but they could end up a bit short vs some of top of the line speakers in terms of detail and resolution. They're still very good, especially at their price point, and even next to the very high end could still hold their own overall, but given their price it was excusable that they did not outperform higher price point speakers in all aspects...

So one thing I'm fairly sure, the new Sierras will at least close the gap a little more... A gap which wasn't huge to begin with... So if you value price/performance, might make them an even more attractive option.

But anyhow, those who have heard it have already commented... (see ascend forum...)

This Sierra-1 NrT should provide class-leading performance regardless of the price point. A bold statement indeed, but I welcome anyone to come have a listen for yourself. I hate discussing products that are still a few months away, this is new to us but at least with our demo room now open and the products ready to be heard, people can come and listen for themselves.
That being said, after 4 hours of direct A/B comparisons between the Sierra-1 NrT and Sierra-1, some of the major differences I noticed were:

* surprisingly large improvement in midrange clarity -- especially noticable with vocals and acoustic guitar. It does seem like another layer has been removed with the NrT and it is yet another step closer to the music. Mids are also fuller sounding, with more weight.

* I would say midrange is about 10 rows more forward sounding with slightly better center imaging. The NrT is a less laid back speaker.

* The upgraded tweeter is sharper and quicker, there is a noticeable imrprovement in attack and decay, such that instruments have more *snap* to them, a more concise impact. For example, with cymbals, the impact is clearly more defined with more delicacy and shimmer.

* Complex high-frequency detail is also more defined with noticeable improvements to instrument separation.

* I was concerned that poorly recorded material would sound worse on the NrT than standard Sierra-1 but to my surprise, I was wrong. Californication, while one of my all time fav CD's, is recorded very poorly. This CD sounds better on the NrT than Sierra-1 as the midrange sounds more lush, more weight to it and this seems draw one's attention away from the audible distortion in the source material. I attribute this to the more linear frequency response of the NrT, especially in the midrange such that the NrT is clearly better balanced throughout the speaker's bandwidth.

* Absolutely no change to bass extension, as expected.
Default Re: Information about new Sierra-1 and Towers?
The difference in the two Sierras is significant, and I am definitely upgrading. When we were listening, we had had one speaker as a reference which we compared to the old/new tweeter/crossover--and the difference was significant, much greater, I think, than the difference between the 340 and the Sierra.
The Sierra-NrT does have a more extended top end (which I think TJ hub wanted), the change (to me) is more significant in the midrange...cleaner and more revealing.

That is what surprised me the most since I love the midrange of the Sierra-1.
Originally Posted by edmondwolfman View Post
Curtis, so even though you were very happy with your Sierra-1s you think you might prefer the NrTs?

Not might, I do prefer them...for me, it's a better speaker, but also more expensive.

I am still very happy with my Sierra-1s, but I was amazed at what the new tweeter/crossover brought to the table.

As I mentioned earlier, the prototype tower was excellent, and I hope Dave can bring that to market, but the NrT surprised me even more.

Bill Mac

07-25-10, 12:58 PM

I wonder if it would be better for present Sierra owners to sell their Sierras and then buy new ones with the NtT tweeter/crossovers instead of doing the upgrade themselves? The upgrade will be $200.00 a speaker where Dave has said new NrT Sierras will go for 30% more over the stock Sierras. So using my fuzzy math 30% of $900.00 would be $270.00. Thats $130.00 less than doing the upgrade with the factory NrTs having a full warranty and also no work involved to do the upgrade. Of course any savings would go towards selling the present Sierras and that minimal loss of whatever price one could get.

Although I did just buy Salk SongTowers and will be selling my Sierras. I think I would still sell them and order the new Sierra NrTs if I had not bought the STs. Another thought is resale and I would think that an owner upgraded pair of Sierra NrTs would not have the resale of the factory built ones.

Bill

HOTDIGITY

07-25-10, 02:46 PM

Bill Mac

07-25-10, 03:36 PM

It's my understanding that the upgrade to the Sierra-1 will include a new, 7 year warranty on the upgraded speaker.

People will have to decide whether it will be worth the upgrade alone or selling and re-buying. I plan on upgrading.

There would be a warranty if Ascend does the upgrade for you. If you do it yourself there would be no warranty, I would assume. Having Ascend do the upgrade is an option I did not mention as I feel it is definitely better to sell your present Sierras then to pay shipping both ways as well as the labor for the upgrade. These costs would be on top of the $200.00 per speaker cost.

Bill

Grandarf

07-25-10, 05:01 PM

In other words, assuming the NrT upgrade comes in at $380 and a pair of Sierra-1 NrT are priced at a $300 premium.

Customers who purchase Sierra-1 now (since this announcement), will be able to add the NrT upgrade within 90-days for $300. After the 90-day period, the upgrade price would then be $380 ( or whatever it is at that time )

For the first 50 current Sierra-1 owners ordering the upgrade, we will split the difference such that the upgrade price would be $300 + (($380-$300)/2) = $340.

I wonder if it would be better for present Sierra owners to sell their Sierras and then buy new ones with the NtT tweeter/crossovers instead of doing the upgrade themselves? The upgrade will be $200.00 a speaker where Dave has said new NrT Sierras will go for 30% more over the stock Sierras. So using my fuzzy math 30% of $900.00 would be $270.00. Thats $130.00 less than doing the upgrade with the factory NrTs having a full warranty and also no work involved to do the upgrade. Of course any savings would go towards selling the present Sierras and that minimal loss of whatever price one could get.
I don't see how you would save $... Let's say you go with 850$ price tag for naturals. That's 1150$ for new NrTs... Say you price your Sierras at 600$ for a quick sale, an upgrade for new pair would be 550$ vs 340$ for upgrade... So more than 200$ extra for a new pair... Is that really worth it for the warranty?

What could happen? Let's say one of your woofer/tweeter/crossover fails in 4 years (end of 7 year warranty), a replacement for any of these will be less than 200$... Anyway, I guess you could, you might be able to get more than 600$ for a pair of nats, so who knows... For those in US, might be an option, otherwise the extra costs would probably make that option less viable.

Ascend

07-25-10, 05:17 PM

Hi Guys,

Just some quick comments here...

Question for Dave - if we do upgrade our Sierras with the new tweeter/crossover kits, what effect (if any) will that have on using each of the current optional port plugs?

The bass alignment and port tuning of the Sierra-1 will not change with the NrT upgrade. Q-Plug functionality will be identical between the Sierra-1 and Sierra-1 NrT

How easy will it be to replace the new tweeter/crossover on the Sierra-1 speakers? What tools are needed? I also wonder at its pricepoint (around $200 per kit, right?) if its going to be worth it given the upgraded performace you get with them. I guess I'll wait for some feedback (evaluations) before deciding to upgrade my front three Sierra-1 speakers to these new kits.

For the vast majority of Sierra-1 owners, performing the upgrade will be very easy. The only tools needed will be a Philips head screwdriver and either a pliers or hex driver. Soldering is not required.

Bill Mac

07-25-10, 05:45 PM

I don't see how you would save $... Let's say you go with 850$ price tag for naturals. That's 1150$ for new NrTs... Say you price your Sierras at 600$ for a quick sale, an upgrade for new pair would be 550$ vs 340$ for upgrade... So more than 200$ extra for a new pair... Is that really worth it for the warranty?

What could happen? Let's say one of your woofer/tweeter/crossover fails in 4 years (end of 7 year warranty), a replacement for any of these will be less than 200$... Anyway, I guess you could, you might be able to get more than 600$ for a pair of nats, so who knows... For those in US, might be an option, otherwise the extra costs would probably make that option less viable.

You are right in that you would not be saving money. You mention $340 for the upgrade, I thought it was $400 for two speakers. I guess my thoughts were more thinking of the time involved but as Dave said for most there is not much labor. Then I guess you could always sell the original tweeter and crossover:). Either way the upgrade is done the SQ should be excellent from some of the comments from those who have heard the NrT Sierras:).

Bill

JW6

07-26-10, 02:05 PM

Whats up guys. I would just like to say hello. I have recently acquired Sierras LCR for home theater and music with 340s for surround duty. My brother and I listened to a bunch of Paradigms including the studio line driven by Pioneer elite receivers. While the setting in which we listened to them wasn't like my treated basement, they didn't impress me value wise compared to the Sierras. It really is amazing what some absorption can do to a room. I also have a DTS-10 sub and I was initially worried how these speakers would keep up with that monstrosity. But to my ears and others it sounds really good, although I don't even use the sub with music with the awesome extension of the sierras. Dave and Ascend were a pleasure to deal with. I am currently am using a panasonic sa-xr55 and it sounds great to me.:) With these speakers and sub I would love to audition some high end receivers and or amps, I just can't imagine these sounding that much better.

Justin

HOTDIGITY

07-26-10, 03:37 PM

Justin,

The one thing you should know about Dave is that he would not offer an upgrade like this if it did not make a noticeable improvement. The time and resources spent on this upgrade by Ascend should be proof of that. Curtis, Whom owns one of the very first pairs of Sierra-1's, as do I, was surprised at how much of a difference there was. In an email conversation between Dave and I, he admitted that although he has been rather low key about this, as is his style, the performace of the upgrade was quite remarkable. Not an insignificant cost, but worth it to take them to the next level.(At least to ME it is!)

ediblestarfish

07-26-10, 04:20 PM

This upgrade, if significant, is a relative bargain--even among internet direct speakers if it really is as good as I think it is.

I crave that crisp detail of good speakers, but I can't stand that fatiguing nature many metal tweeters and some fabric ones carry with it. However, given the neutral, easy to listen nature of the Sierras, I trust Dave to keep it in-line. I have a set of much more expensive speakers that I know have that extra headroom, so there's certainly some upgrade space for the Sierras.

I'm waiting with as much patience as I can muster for the NrT upgrade.

spanish68

07-26-10, 07:26 PM

So far, very good comments on the NrT kits. Price to performance ratio on these kits seems to be spot on. Dave has a winner on his hands and by the looks of it, it's going to sell very well. I'm going to have to get in line to get this kit for my Sierra's.

JW6

07-26-10, 08:37 PM

For sure on the performance claims on this new tweeter and crossover. I was just speculating on the differences with with a different amp and or receiver in my setup. I would love to hear these new additions, though I have already spent way too much in the last few months with my budget:)

trev2401

08-04-10, 10:38 AM

Hi Trevor,

We ship internationally on a regular basis, especially Sierra-1. If you can be so kind to PM or email me your exact shipping address, I would be happy to provide you with an exact freight quote. Strangely enough, rates to Singapore through our UPS corporate account are MUCH better than by using the US Postal Service Priority mail.

Hi Dave,

sent you a PM regarding shipping to me address in Singapore.
Hope this works out!!! (especially with the NrTs.)

:)

best,
Trevor

Ascend

08-05-10, 05:19 PM

Hi Dave,

sent you a PM regarding shipping to me address in Singapore.
Hope this works out!!! (especially with the NrTs.)

:)

best,
Trevor

Answered -- please check your PM :)

cschang

08-16-10, 11:16 PM

Anybody in the SoCal area interested in hearing the Sierra NrT and the prototype tower?

We are planning a listening session for Sunday, August 29th at Ascend. Other speakers will be welcomed as well.

nickmo

08-17-10, 11:50 AM

duffda

08-17-10, 02:12 PM

stretch

08-17-10, 05:12 PM

Interested but will be outta town, or heading outta town. Hope to hear some good news on these. I have been eyeing/ waiting to hear these or read some reviews of the tower speaker. Current Paradigm Monitor series V.2 owner and ready to upgrade my 5.1 system. These (towers) if released soon, long with Salks are on the short list!

cschang

08-17-10, 06:07 PM

These (towers) if released soon, long with Salks are on the short list!
Then I would highly suggest you send someone in your place if you absolutely can not make it.

merrymaid520

08-17-10, 06:23 PM

Curtis & others who are fortunate enough(and closer) to attend the Ascend Tower listening event, please post your thoughts for the rest of us to read. I would have loved to attend, but cannot. If you are fortunate enough to attend, if you can bring some other speakers to compare them to would be awesome! A reference point would be very helpful for those looking to make the jump from bookshelfs or other towers to the Ascends. This will help eliminate some of the usual questions like "how does it compare to speaker A, or speaker B:)

We probably cannot start an "official" thread on the towers yet due to the rules on AVS for products not yet released but maybe posting impressions on the Ascend forum would be best?

Looking forward to reading everyone's thoughts after 8/29!

Thanks,
Brandon

spanish68

08-17-10, 08:30 PM

I will also be listening/attentive to the feedback coming from that event. I realize that the Ascend Tower will be a three way speaker but wonder if it will have a tweeter/mid/woofer combo or tweeter/mid/dual woofers combo.

Ascend

08-17-10, 08:35 PM

stretch

08-18-10, 09:39 AM

Then I would highly suggest you send someone in your place if you absolutely can not make it.

I'll be on the big boat in San Pedro waiting to set sail. None of my friends are audio guys so I will rely on the forums expertise when I return.
I see your local cschang, I work in The city next to you.
Does Ascend have an ETA on the towers, and a ball park range for the MSRP on the towers?

stretch

08-18-10, 09:45 AM

Stretch -- Our listening room is open to the public (by appointment only). You are welcome any time, just give us a head's up...

Cool, will have to make the 40 minute drive south in a couple of months to hear these things. That sounds like it would be fun.

cschang

08-18-10, 11:21 AM

I'll be on the big boat in San Pedro waiting to set sail. None of my friends are audio guys so I will rely on the forums expertise when I return.
I see your local cschang, I work in The city next to you.
Does Ascend have an ETA on the towers, and a ball park range for the MSRP on the towers?
Don't know the ETA....and you are welcome to hear my Sierra-1/Rythmik setup.

That's funny...I was on a cruise out of San Pedro a month ago. Probably the same one since it is the slow season for cruises to the Mexican Riviera. We had a great time!

Ascend

08-19-10, 04:12 PM

i am interested in the sierra 3 way tower. Cant find any info, can someone help?

I will also be listening/attentive to the feedback coming from that event. I realize that the Ascend Tower will be a three way speaker but wonder if it will have a tweeter/mid/woofer combo or tweeter/mid/dual woofers combo.

Does Ascend have an ETA on the towers, and a ball park range for the MSRP on the towers?

Hi guys -- I would be breaking AVS rules if I were to start discussing the specifics about the tower. I am happy to discuss technical details of the NrT upgrade as this should fall into forum guidelines, but please visit the discussion forum on our site with regard to the towers.

Thanks for understanding!

Mudslide

08-19-10, 04:39 PM

Hi guys -- I would be breaking AVS rules if I were to start discussing the specifics about the tower. I am happy to discuss technical details of the NrT upgrade as this should fall into forum guidelines, but please visit the discussion forum on our site with regard to the towers.

Thanks for understanding!

Dave,

Everyone here is mighty excited to be able to audition the Sierra-1 NrT's at our Great Northwest GTG next month.

Thanks much again for your support.

Ascend

08-19-10, 04:43 PM

Dave,

Everyone here is mighty excited to be able to audition the Sierra-1 NrT's at our Great Northwest GTG next month.

Thanks much again for your support.

We are trying our best to get the parts here on time... Just don't know at this point if the timing will work :(

Mudslide

08-21-10, 11:32 PM

We are trying our best to get the parts here on time... Just don't know at this point if the timing will work :(

We're hoping for the best. :)

cschang

08-23-10, 06:20 PM

Dave has posted an exploded view of the new tweeter in the Sierra-NrT:

http://forum.ascendacoustics.com/showpost.php?p=35059&postcount=105

CruelInventions

08-23-10, 07:24 PM

Gotta be a (Ascend) forum member to see the picture. Just thought I'd mention.

cschang

08-23-10, 07:59 PM

Gotta be a (Ascend) forum member to see the picture. Just thought I'd mention.
Oops...how about this?

gchanjam

08-23-10, 09:29 PM

I'm actually in San Diego and would love to attend the listening event on the 29th. Do I have to RSVP or can I just show up?

Grandarf

08-23-10, 09:46 PM

Oops...how about this?

So what are we looking at? Is there two sets of magnets? The ring and a cylinder magnet on the center? Or is the center not a magnet? Not quite familiar with tweeter structures...

The bottom part has the shape with the fins for cooling? Or to add mass? Or both?

It also looks like it has the rubberlike grey (think it was mentioned it would or could be black...), so maybe color aside, visually from the outside it'll look exactly like the current Sierra?

cschang

08-23-10, 10:25 PM

I'm actually in San Diego and would love to attend the listening event on the 29th. Do I have to RSVP or can I just show up?
I'm keeping an informal list. Just show up at 10am.

cschang

08-23-10, 10:28 PM

So what are we looking at? Is there two sets of magnets? The ring and a cylinder magnet on the center? Or is the center not a magnet? Not quite familiar with tweeter structures...

The bottom part has the shape with the fins for cooling? Or to add mass? Or both?

It also looks like it has the rubberlike grey (think it was mentioned it would or could be black...), so maybe color aside, visually from the outside it'll look exactly like the current Sierra?
There is only one ring magnet.

From the front/outside, it looks like the current tweeter, but I believe the waveguide will be darker.

wad06

08-27-10, 03:32 PM

I just picked up an Onkyo tx-nr807 to power my three Sierra-1's. Should I set it up for 4 ohm or 8 ohm speakers? Any other pieces of advice for my 3.1 setup?

Thanks,

Wad

stevensctt

08-27-10, 04:29 PM

I just picked up an Onkyo tx-nr807 to power my three Sierra-1's. Should I set it up for 4 ohm or 8 ohm speakers? Any other pieces of advice for my 3.1 setup?

Thanks,

Wad

The Sierras are 8 ohm speakers, so no need to adjust for lower impedance (page 51 of your manual).

Go through the entire set-up, page by page of the manual. Run Audyssey EQ. You'll learn quite a bit about your receiver and operation. After all is completed, you can go back and tweak to your preferences. Your Sierras will sound great driven by the very capable TX-NR807.

cschang

08-27-10, 06:15 PM

Dave posted some good news for wannabe Sierra owners:
http://forum.ascendacoustics.com/showthread.php?t=4421

spanish68

08-27-10, 08:22 PM

Those "wannabe" Sierra owners are also getting a great price for the NrT upgrade at $150 a piece if they buy the current Sierra-1 model. I believe the previous price being mentioned was more like $180 per NrT kit. I wonder for current Sierra owners like myself what the final NrT upgrade will be per speaker.

Tarpon

08-29-10, 07:38 PM

I'm actually in San Diego and would love to attend the listening event on the 29th. Do I have to RSVP or can I just show up?

Any impressions from those who attended?

Ascend

08-29-10, 09:03 PM

Any impressions from those who attended?

We just finished after nearly 8 hours (with a 90 minute lunch break). I am exhausted (my daughter kept me up most of last night) but it was great fun putting faces to forum names. I won't comment on listening impressions but I will say I was very impressed by the technical knowledge and listening skills of everyone.

Good music, a good lunch and great people - it doesn't get any better :D I hope we can do this again real soon, it is what makes this hobby so great!

Time for a nap... :o

cschang

08-29-10, 11:17 PM

Any impressions from those who attended?
I posted pictures of the towers over on the Ascend forum.

The towers sounded fabulous. Nice sized sweet spot and fantastic imaging to boot.

Ascend

08-30-10, 05:35 PM

I wonder for current Sierra owners like myself what the final NrT upgrade will be per speaker.

Standard pricing will come in at $190 per speaker. If you are among the first 50 to get on our upgrade list, price is reduced to $170 per speaker.

DPlettner

08-30-10, 08:18 PM

Standard pricing will come in at $190 per speaker. If you are among the first 50 to get on our upgrade list, price is reduced to $170 per speaker.

Dave,

Are you at 50 yet? I got my name in the queue late last week, and I am curious whether I made it.

Thanks,
Dave

sdurani

08-31-10, 11:01 AM

Any impressions from those who attended?In a word, the towers were stunning. They had a wide sweet spot and were forgiving of toe-in, which is important for home theatre and mulitple listeners. However, I thought they sounded even better the closer I got on-axis. For me, that meant having my ears right between tweeter & midrange height AND toe-ing in the cabinets so I couldn't see the sides. At that point, the towers really separated themselves from the Sierras.

I've been so used to hearing various 2-way speakers lately that I'd forgotten how tangible the advantages of a well designed 3-way are. To hear less of the room and more of the speakers themselves, I moved closer (almost nearfield). Probably unfair, since I don't know if they were intended to be point-sources (like my Kefs at home). But the sound didn't break apart and they retained their imaging and tonality (weird; almost like co-axials).

If anyone is expecting them to sound like the Sierras (just with more bass extension), be aware they don't. Rapid A-B switching made that clear. I guess adding a dedicated midrange, especially one that covers most of the female vocal range, really does change the equation. Which one is 'better' will come down to personal preference. For me, the choice would be obvious. And I don't even know if we were listening to the fully completed version.

cschang

08-31-10, 12:20 PM

(weird; almost like co-axials)
I beleive that has a lot to do with the crossover design that attempts to mimic a single point radiator. Dave has some information about it on the Sierra technology page. The trademarked term he uses is OPPIX.

And I don't even know if we were listening to the fully completed version.
I think Dave is done with the design, but he did say it will get "better" in a real cabinet with a real crossover.

I will also point out, Sanjay is speaking on the difference Sierra NrT and the tower. The difference between the Sierra-1 and the tower is even greater.

spanish68

08-31-10, 04:56 PM

Good feedback on the towers so far! What was their size? W x D x H. Was it just one woofer used on the tower? Same size woofer as the Sierra-1? Anybody knows the sensitivity of them? They'll probably be 8ohm, no? When the towers come out (looks like well into 2,011), I wonder if the new Sierra NrT center speaker will work for the center duty (I guess they will if the tweeters are the same) or there will be another speaker. I'm curious and interested in them, a great upgrade from my current Sierra-1 speakers, specially if the price comes in at under $2,000/pair.

cschang

08-31-10, 05:08 PM

HOTDIGITY

08-31-10, 07:24 PM

Curtis, based on what you heard, will you be upgrading your Sierra's or going for the towers?;)

spanish68

08-31-10, 07:58 PM

I just checked the Ascend Acoustics forum and the new Sierra Towers, very nice. They do use the same tweeter and woofer as the Sierra NrT, with a completely new mid. They are slim towers (good for those of us with space restrictions).

The Sierra NrT for the center with the Towers for the L + R looks to be a big upgrade from the stock Sierra-1 and the Sierra NrT across the front will also provide a nice upgrade from the regular Sierra-1. They mentioned a posibility of under $2,000 for the Towers, another positive. I'm sure the other Tower details will be coming out in due time, things such as its sensitivity, rated power, ohms (probably 8ohms), etc.

Dave mentioned a Mid-October delivery for the NrT's but it looks like the Towers won't be ready until about another six months (2011). I do hope I'm wrong on that one but nevertheless, I think I will wait for the Towers and just upgrade my Sierra center to the NrT kit, we'll see.

cschang

08-31-10, 10:43 PM

Curtis, based on what you heard, will you be upgrading your Sierra's or going for the towers?;)
Well, for me, it is a matter of what I can make work in my room.

The tower is a better speaker than the Sierra-NrT. No question. As Sanjay said, the addition of the midrange driver really raises the bar. If you have the money and space, it is a no brainer.

We all know how good the Sierra-1 is, and the Sierra-NrT really makes a difference as mentioned on the thread at the Ascend forum. So, in this, it is a matter of the pocketbook.

HOTDIGITY

09-01-10, 12:33 PM

To me, it looks as if the tower would take up roughly the same amount of floor space as a pair of Sierra-1's on stands. So for me the decision is driven by cost. If Dave is looking at mid 2011 for the tower then it might be worth selling my pair of Sierra-1's and putting the money towards a pair of towers while saving up the rest! Decisions, decisions!

Ascend

09-01-10, 08:27 PM

Dave,

Are you at 50 yet? I got my name in the queue late last week, and I am curious whether I made it.

Thanks,
Dave

If you are on the list then you are in that first 50 :) I am not sure how many spots are left at this point, but I know it is not many - if any.

DPlettner

09-01-10, 08:34 PM

If you are on the list then you are in that first 50 :) I am not sure how many spots are left at this point, but I know it is not many - if any.Thanks! I told Dina that I wanted five upgrades, so it adds up.

If you do a similar upgrade offer for Sierra owners when the towers are introduced, you might convince me to replace the L and R speakers with towers :).

-Dave

Triangles

09-08-10, 04:12 PM

**Edit: Sorry, I didn't know this thread was for the Sierra, but I'm late for work and I'm looking for a response so I'll leave it here if anyone has experience with the lower 170s. Sorry!

Hello all,

Here's a little brief on what my system looks like and looking for opinions because I'm caught with upgradetitis.

The speakers are going to be for a small bedroom computer use, 12x11. I used to have cheap computer speakers and then I got tired of those so I jumped the gun on some new speakers and I didn't do enough research on all speaker companies. This is what I ended up with in the past month:

Fronts: Energy CB-20s $349
Center: Energy CC-5 $150
Rears: Energy CB-5s $180
Subwoofer: HSU STF-1 $299

I just feel that I paid a little too much for what I am getting in return because of the middleman costs. The CB-20s are recent so I can still return that to get an Ascend maybe, but my Center and rears are stuck.

The only quality deal I believe I have is the HSU Sub. I wanted speakers so bad that I just went to my local Best Buy Magnolia (I know, not the best choice) and I liked the Energy's so I picked those up. I like my current set up, but I feel like I am missing something. The sound is feel like it's not as clear as it should be, and I missed the amazingly good deal on the discontinued Energy RC-10 line for $349.

So anyway, I do 75% Music and the rest is movies and video games and will be mostly near-field listening. Seems like most people with higher end speakers do classical, and rock type music, but mine is mostly hip-hop and rap.

I am thinking if the 170s will be a huge upgrade from the CB-20s in terms of sound quality. Since hip-hop is bass heavy, and not much high end I don't know if I should make the switch from CB-20s to 170s even though it's the same price. Will the 170s match well with my Energy CC-5? I am sort of on a budget so I don't know if I should just keep my CB-20s so all 3 fronts match or return my CB-20s to 170s.

Anyone here do hip-hop/rap on their 170s? I don't think there's anywhere I can audition them, and time is running out, I only have 2 weeks left before it's too late to return my CB-20s to Best Buy.

Ascend

09-21-10, 04:34 PM

Mudslide

09-21-10, 09:10 PM

I finally had the opportunity to audition the Sierra-1's at our Great Northwest GTG in Oregon. I must say, they are a very appealing speaker in many ways. Other auditioners seemed to agree. We will be posting summary results from the formal auditions in a few days.

While Dave tried to get a pair of Sierra-1 NrT's to us, the timing of our event was a little early for NrT availability. Nevertheless, the standard model acquitted itself quite well amongst some fantastic stand-mount speakers.

Nice job Dave and Ascend. And many thanks for your generous sponsorship and support.

SR_71

09-23-10, 02:33 PM

Any Sierra-1 owners in western Wisconsin or Minnesota who would be willing to offer a guy a listen?

These are on my short-list of speakers and I'd love to get an earful.

merrymaid520

09-23-10, 03:41 PM

Any Sierra-1 owners in western Wisconsin or Minnesota who would be willing to offer a guy a listen?

These are on my short-list of speakers and I'd love to get an earful.

Hello,
I live 30 miles west of Milwaukee and have Piano black sierras for sale as well? PM if interested for a listen.

Brandon

GTZ

09-24-10, 08:42 AM

Hello,
I live 30 miles west of Milwaukee and have Piano black sierras for sale as well? PM if interested for a listen.

Brandon

Wow, can't believe you're selling your Sierras. I saw them and your center on the 'gon'. I know from reading your posts here and on the Ascend forum that you really enjoy those speakers. Are you going to jump on the new Ascend towers when they are available or going in a whole new direction?

merrymaid520

09-24-10, 09:40 AM

Wow, can't believe you're selling your Sierras. I saw them and your center on the 'gon'. I know from reading your posts here and on the Ascend forum that you really enjoy those speakers. Are you going to jump on the new Ascend towers when they are available or going in a whole new direction?

You are correct. I do love my sierras, but I am in preparation for the ascend towers of course:) I have 8 sierra-1's at the moment and need to sell a few off:p I have no plans to abandon my ascend speakers all around!

Side note, if anyone wants a pair of used A stock sierras in mint condition, let me know via PM.

Thanks guys,
Brandon

Oldfart

09-24-10, 10:05 AM

mark russ

09-24-10, 11:51 AM

FWIW, there are port plugs available from Ascend for the Sierras for close wall proximity placement, and they're fairly cheap and highly effective.

cschang

09-24-10, 12:40 PM

I'm thinking about Sierra-1s vs. TCA Pro10s. Either will have to be fairly close to the wall. The front ported Pro10s are no problem in this regard, but the Sierra-1s, being rear ported may be. How close to the wall can I locate the Sierra-1s?
Two very different speakers with different design goals, with so many other speakers in between. How did you come to choose these two?

Oldfart

09-24-10, 01:45 PM

Maybe I'm missing something , but your comment confuses me. My mains are currently 20 year old Cambridge Soundworks Original Ensembles, with two Epik Sentinel subs. I intend to move the Ensembles to be rears in a 7.1 setup. Since I will crossover the Sentinels at 80Hz, I have no need for mains that go really low. My setup is such that I can't use floor standing speakers, so I'm looking for bookshelf size speakers. My comfort level budget for two mains and a center is about $1500. Suggestions would be appreciated.

cschang

09-24-10, 01:50 PM

Mudslide

09-25-10, 04:30 PM

The Great Northwest GTG summary report has been posted over on Audioholics. Congrats to Ascend for a great showing with the Sierra-1. Here's the link. http://forums.audioholics.com/forums/showthread.php?t=67150&page=10

Ascend

09-27-10, 01:21 AM

coolsax

10-22-10, 06:02 PM

Hey I was wondering if there was anyone in the Austin Texas area who had Sierras that I might be able to listen to and Audition.. I'm trying to narrow it down on my room for 2 channel and have already listened to PSB and Dynaudio and wanted to see how they compare thanks..

HOTDIGITY

11-03-10, 02:34 PM

ctbarker32

11-03-10, 04:45 PM

Just an F.Y.I.

Got my confirmation email from Ascend that the NrT upgrade kits are officially available for pre-order. Have 2 kits ordered, due to ship either Nov.24th, or right after the holiday.

Let the games begin!!:D
The upgrade order mentions a tool called a 1/2 hex driver. Does anyone have a picture or a link to an example of this tool? I'm not sure if I have this item in my toolbox?

Thanks.

-CB

stevensctt

11-03-10, 05:29 PM

The upgrade order mentions a tool called a 1/2 hex driver. Does anyone have a picture or a link to an example of this tool? I'm not sure if I have this item in my toolbox?

Thanks.

-CB

You may be more familiar with the term allen wrench, same as a hex wrench or driver.

HOTDIGITY

11-03-10, 07:23 PM

Hmm.....after googling a hex driver, stevensctt may be correct. I was assuming, since Dave mentions using that OR a pliers, that it was a female tool more like a hex socket driver. Now I'm not sure:confused:

I guess a call to Ascend, or Dave posting an answer here, is in order.

stevensctt

11-03-10, 07:42 PM

Ascend

11-03-10, 07:45 PM

Hi Guys,

Sorry for any confusion. A 1/2" Hex driver is short for a 1/2" Hex Nut Driver. This is basically a screwdriver with an attached 1/2" socket at the end. If you have a ratchet set at home with a 1/2" socket, you are in good shape.

Here is a link to what we use here in the shop:

http://www.globalindustrial.com/p/tools/Ratchets-Sockets/Ratchets-NutDriver/stanley-1-2-and-34-hex-driver

and a picture:

http://www.globalindustrial.com/site/images/n-picgroup/STB_61-811.jpg

These are available at any hardware store, but you probably already have one in your toolbox at home :p

HOTDIGITY

11-04-10, 10:33 AM

Ok, great! I have the tools needed. Now just need the parts!

Kind of nervous at the thought of doing surgery on my Sierra's, but I'm more excited about the performance gains.

mark russ

11-04-10, 12:36 PM

Kind of nervous at the thought of doing surgery on my Sierra's, but I'm more excited about the performance gains.

You could send them back to Ascend and let them do it. You would obviously have to eat the shipping charges, but at least you would know it was done right. Plus, you would in effect be getting a whole new warranty from day one as I understand it.

I'm also on the list, but right now, I'm debating whether to get my Sierra1s upgraded, or just to wait for the new forthcoming towers to come out and trade my Sierra1s in towards them. Decisions, decisions.

cschang

11-04-10, 12:45 PM

I'm also on the list, but right now, I'm debating whether to get my Sierra1s upgraded, or just to wait for the new forthcoming towers to come out and trade my sierra1s in towards them. Decisions, decisions.
Mark...do you live close, or willing to travel? Looking to put together another listening session at Ascend.

mark russ

11-04-10, 12:58 PM

^^^ Nah Curtis, I'd love to go, but I'm just too far away.

HOTDIGITY

11-04-10, 02:34 PM

You could send them back to Ascend and let them do it. You would obviously have to eat the shipping charges, but at least you would know it was done right. Plus, you would in effect be getting a whole new warranty from day one as I understand it.

I'm also on the list, but right now, I'm debating whether to get my Sierra1s upgraded, or just to wait for the new forthcoming towers to come out and trade my Sierra1s in towards them. Decisions, decisions.

I'd rather save the time/money and just do the upgrade myself. I understand the hesitation to upgrade when a tower is on the way, but I'd rather upgrade the Sierra-1's now, and enjoy them. When a trade in program becomes available, the NrT Sierra should be worth more towards that over the standard Sierra-1, so trading up should still be an option. And if not, I'm sure there will be interest on the used market for the NrT's;)

mark russ

11-04-10, 03:02 PM

^^^ As is certainly your prerogative. To each their own.

merrymaid520

11-04-10, 04:28 PM

I shall throw my opinion in the mix. I have decided (long time ago) to simply just upgrade my sierra center(for a timbre match) and just buy the towers. Resale value on the sierra's is not what it used to be several years back and the trade in program is well under what you can get on the used market, trust me I have looked into both and recently sold my sierras awaiting the towers:)

It all comes down to what you want and can spend. The towers will easily destroy the sierras on the low end, the highs should be very similar (same Nrt) and mids of course a step up on the Towers considering the midrange driver. Myself, I am after the best highs/mids I can get(from ascend), so the towers were a great choice.

Excellent options for those looking one way or another......cant wait to hear both!

mark russ

11-04-10, 04:38 PM

^^^ Are details out about the trade in program? If so, can you please provide a link. I couldn't find it. :o

TIA

merrymaid520

11-04-10, 06:31 PM

^^^ Are details out about the trade in program? If so, can you please provide a link. I couldn't find it. :o

TIA

You have mail;)

HOTDIGITY

11-04-10, 07:30 PM

I'd be interested in the trade in details also;)

merrymaid520

11-04-10, 07:45 PM

I'd be interested in the trade in details also;)

You also have mail!

bnrbeseth

11-04-10, 08:31 PM

If aftermarket sales are better than trade in value I might be interested. Just to throw it out there

Ascend

11-05-10, 01:01 AM

^^^ Are details out about the trade in program? If so, can you please provide a link. I couldn't find it. :o

TIA

Hi Guys,

We will indeed have some form of trade-in program. The final numbers for this will be determined when the towers are in full production and all costs / expenses have been determined.

The one thing that is certain is that the older the speaker, the less trade-in value there will be. This will probably be broken up by years, for example, older than 3yrs, older than 2yrs, older than 1yr and then 90 days or less etc.

Other than this info, nothing has been determined just yet.

Take care!

HOTDIGITY

11-05-10, 09:18 AM

If aftermarket sales are better than trade in value I might be interested. Just to throw it out there

Not sure what you mean by this? Would you be interested in putting your Sierra-1's on the used market, or looking to buy some used Sierra's?

bnrbeseth

11-05-10, 10:32 AM

I meant buy used

HOTDIGITY

11-05-10, 10:54 AM

I meant buy used

Gotcha. Ascends have typically held their value pretty well as Dave does not bring out a flavor-of-the-month each year or two. The SE models have been going strong for years with no changes to their design. I'm still impressed with my Sierra-1's. I was listening to some 2 channel music through my Marantz SR6003 AVR in Pure Direct, which bypasses all bass management and shuts down all non-essential circuitry so you get the purest signal. I had to put my hand on my 12" Rythmik sub to verify it was not playing.:cool:

bnrbeseth

11-05-10, 12:04 PM

I purchased 2 used htm 200se's and a Sierra 1 center a while back and am using them for my lcr. I have some onkyo htib speakers for my surrounds, so am needing to get two more sierras so I can move the 200's to surround duty and get rid of the cheap onkyos

HOTDIGITY

11-05-10, 01:13 PM

I'm sure you will see an increase in Sierra-1's appear on the used market as the Ascend towers get closer to their release.

Bill Mac

11-05-10, 06:24 PM

I agree that the used prices for the Sierras have gone down recently. My guess is that there are more used Sierras available now than there was a year or so ago. The other factor is Ascend recently had a great price on the Light Cherry Sierras which it appears this finish is no longer available. Also the recertified Sierra Naturals are available at a great price. So with all these factors it drives down the used value IMO.

I still have my Sierras as there was a lot of interest but no solid offers. I decided to keep them instead of selling them for a price I was not comfortable with. I might upgrade them to the NrT tweeter/crossover and compare them to my SongTowers;).

Bill

merrymaid520

11-05-10, 06:51 PM

You noticed the market "change" first hand as well:)

I was going to ask what you did with your sierras, now I know! Upgrading them and doing your own 'lil shootout sounds fun......when? and I'll bring the beer.

:D

I agree that the used prices for the Sierras have gone down recently. My guess is that there are more used Sierras available now than there was a year or so ago. The other factor is Ascend recently had a great price on the Light Cherry Sierras which it appears this finish is no longer available. Also the recertified Sierra Naturals are available at a great price. So with all these factors it drives down the used value IMO.

I still have my Sierras as there was a lot of interest but no solid offers. I decided to keep them instead of selling them for a price I was not comfortable with. I might upgrade them to the NrT tweeter/crossover and compare them to my SongTowers;).

Bill

Bill Mac

11-05-10, 07:10 PM

[QUOTE]You noticed the market "change" first hand as well:)

Hey Brandon,

Yes I did;). But I feel the Sierras still retain a good amount of their value.

I was going to ask what you did with your sierras, now I know! Upgrading them and doing your own 'lil shootout sounds fun......when? and I'll bring the beer. :D

Thats sounds good but it would be best in the summer so you can enjoy the beach without getting frostbite:eek:. Of course you would have to drag along the rest of the crew from WI to make it a complete GTG:D.

Bill

KramerTC

11-07-10, 08:21 PM

Warpdrv

11-07-10, 08:54 PM

[quote=merrymaid520;19443112]

Hey Brandon,

Yes I did;). But I feel the Sierras still retain a good amount of their value.

Thats sounds good but it would be best in the summer so you can enjoy the beach without getting frostbite:eek:. Of course you would have to drag along the rest of the crew from WI to make it a complete GTG:D.

Bill

Count me in... !!!! I'm way overdue for a vacation this year...
Where you located Bill....? :)

I'm really interested in more info about these new towers.... is anyone going to post some pics here on AVS ?

Are there any pics people can post of this Nrt upgrade from what I'm reading... I never started an acct over at the Sierra Forum

Brandon, are you still unable to make it this weekend on SAT for the GTG.... This is a beer, food and friends GTG - FWIW

merrymaid520

11-07-10, 09:03 PM

Warpdrv

11-07-10, 09:07 PM

Patrick,

I believe there are pics of the towers on the ascend site, and I have some as well I can send you via email.

Erin and I are bummed we cannot make it. We have a mini family reunion near door county all weekend:(

Hopefully after the holidays I can host a gtg to see you, Brandon, and Terry again.

I would love it if you could email those to me buddy....

Sorry you won't be able to make the gtg, but either way - you and Erin are way overdue for us to host you guys for D&D....

Enjoy your weekend up in door county... so nice up there...

merrymaid520

11-07-10, 09:16 PM

Email sent:)

We may have to take you up on your offer just to see you all again!

Perfect time of year to head up there.

Thanks bud for the invites, we'll make the next one for sure.

B

cschang

11-07-10, 09:21 PM

Are those pictures of the latest prototype with the porting in the rear? I would like to see them!

merrymaid520

11-07-10, 09:25 PM

Are those pictures of the latest prototype with the porting in the rear? I would like to see them!

So would I;)

I sent patrick your photos from the last listening session:).

When are you planning the next listening session to hear the final version?

cschang

11-07-10, 09:29 PM

So would I;)

I sent patrick your photos from the last listening session:).

When are you planning the next listening session to hear the final version?
Too funny!

I discussed a date with some of the guys that went to the Hsu open house yesterday(some of them had heard the prototype) and sent it to Dave. One of the guys had heard/seen it on Wednesday and said it looked like a finished product...and said it sounded great, but he had not heard the previous prototype.

merrymaid520

11-07-10, 09:37 PM

Too funny!

I discussed a date with some of the guys that went to the Hsu open house yesterday(some of them had heard the prototype) and sent it to Dave. One of the guys had heard/seen it on Wednesday and said it looked like a finished product...and said it sounded great, but he had not heard the previous prototype.

Gotcha. Maybe Dave can snap a pic of the final version if the next session does not happen soon? All the feedback from the lucky few who have heard it have been positive, can't wait!

HOTDIGITY

11-08-10, 07:58 AM

Well, the charge for the NrT kits showed up on my CC. My Fiancee' was checking my online statement to see where I was with expenses, and called to me in the other room asking what I'd bought. Oops! I was going to tell her I had a little present for myself coming around the holiday and did not realize the charge would show up so quickly, so I had to explain it after she saw it.

At least I feel now it is a reality:D

Warpdrv

11-08-10, 08:35 AM

So would I;)

I sent patrick your photos from the last listening session:).

When are you planning the next listening session to hear the final version?

Yes thanks for sending those - they look pretty cool...

Curious - how much was the charge per speaker for the NrT upgrade if I may ask....

HOTDIGITY

11-08-10, 08:50 AM

I think Dave posted the cost somewhere, but this is a big thread. If you got on the list of the first 50 upgraders, the cost per speaker is $170 + $6 shipping per kit. Eack kit does 1 Sierra. I guess Ascend is going to process all orders now, including the charges to CC's, etc. so they can simply ship out the kits when parts shipments arrive at Ascend.

Now the waiting for the new toys!

Bill Mac

11-08-10, 05:38 PM

[quote=Bill Mac;19443179]

Count me in... !!!! I'm way overdue for a vacation this year...
Where you located Bill....? :)

Patrick,

I'm in So. Maine on the coast. It is a nice spot year round but the summer time is the best to enjoy the beaches. Thats where you will find me from June to September:D. You and the gang from WI are welcome anytime:).

Bill

Warpdrv

11-08-10, 05:48 PM

[quote=Warpdrv;19451700]

Patrick,

I'm in So. Maine on the coast. It is a nice spot year round but the summer time is the best to enjoy the beaches. Thats where you will find me from June to September:D. You and the gang from WI are welcome anytime:).

Bill

Cool..... I was out in Maine with my son a few years back - we hit up Portland, it was nice there.... we were on the run from the Hurricane that was headed up the coast line.... :)

It was a seafood food based road trip, in the car up through Niagra and then down through New York - when we were coming up on the fork in the road, I asked him is he wanted Clam Chowder or Lobster - we hit up the Boston area first, then he started gettin scared about the Hurricane, so we bolted and headed up that way around NYC/NY, I wasn't gunna chase his @$$ around that city....

It was truly a ton of fun... I'd love to hit the areas north of there sometime... Very much like upper Wi.... Beautiful...

Thanks for the invite... :)

Your always welcome here anytime your through this way - for Beer and
Brats... Milwaukee has a great musical festival every summer - SummerFest... http://www.summerfest.com/flash/#
Tons and tons of great artists play all day long at 11 different stages.
11 stages, 11 days - over 800 bands... as the front page states... Milwaukee is a really fantastic city...

HOTDIGITY

11-10-10, 08:03 AM

Just a thought.......

When people say they cannot go with a floorstander/tower speaker due to space, and have to stay with a bookshelf monitor, I assume the monitor is actually on a shelf of some sort. If someone has a bookshelf speaker sitting atop stands, that will occupy at least the same floor space as a tower, the argument of not having the needed space if invalid. For me, I could easily fit floorstanding towers in my setup. The real issue I have preventing me from going with the towers is the cost. I could put it on my CC, but I have a big enough balance on it already. With the holidays approaching, it will only get worse!

The NrT's will have to keep me happy for now!

cschang

11-11-10, 09:22 AM

Dave has posted pictures and some information about the NrT tweeter and crossover:
http://forum.ascendacoustics.com/showpost.php?p=35552&postcount=251

Also, for those interested, we are trying to plan a group listening session for the finalized tower and Sierra-1 NrT on Nov. 20th. Let me know if you are interested.

tparks

11-21-10, 05:08 AM

Side note, if anyone wants a pair of used A stock sierras in mint condition, let me know via PM.

Thanks guys,
Brandon[/QUOTE]

Not sure how to contact you via PM regarding your offer. Thanks.

Tony

Bill Mac

11-21-10, 09:39 AM

Not sure how to contact you via PM regarding your offer. Thanks.

Tony

Tony,

In order to PM another member you click on their user name then click "send a private message". I sent you a PM by the way:).

Bill

analogBalrog

11-21-10, 10:23 AM

Looking for some advice..

My current LCR is comprised of:

Energy - Reference Connoisseur - RC10 for L/R
Energy - Reference Connoisseur - RC Mini - CCR1 for Center

How much of an upgrade would (a) the CMT-340 LCR package be? and (b) the Sierra LCR package be from this setup?

mark russ

11-21-10, 10:34 AM

^^^ I can't speak for the 340s, but FWIW, I can tell you this much - I have direct A/B compared The previous generation Energy Connoisseur C-3s to Sierra1s, and it's not even close. The Ascends are in another league entirely altogether IMO.

coolsax

11-26-10, 08:37 AM

I just ordered a pair today, awesome deal on Dark Cherry B-stocks for black friday, Can't wait to get these and try them out.

coolsax

12-03-10, 06:52 AM

Got these in yesterday!... absolutely gorgeous to look at. My first listening session was pretty short, but I will say they were definitely more forward than i expected, yet not overly bright, and definitely engaging. everything seemed tonally very natural and detailed. can't wait to get some more longer sessions in. my other two channel speakers are Polk LS 50s and they are certainly not this forward so it will take some getting used to I think, but definitely happy at this point.

mark russ

12-03-10, 10:24 AM

Congrats! Surround system, or 2 channel?

coolsax

12-03-10, 02:10 PM

sdurani

12-03-10, 02:33 PM

I think my main concern for it is will it be too forward for me.. I thought snare drum especially was too forward compared to the rest of the music..Can't you turn the treble down a bit to make it less forward sounding?

jonnyozero3

12-03-10, 05:16 PM

Bill Mac

12-03-10, 05:42 PM

2 channel. Its definitely a different sound.. and its definitely engaging, but I have to listen to it more for sure before I make my final decision about it. I think my main concern for it is will it be too forward for me.. Not sure yet.. but I definitely like the tonality of the speakers all around, but there was a song or two last night when I thought snare drum especially was too forward compared to the rest of the music.. again it just may be a familiarity issue, but over all I really do like it, just trying to figure out if its a keeper.

Are you saying the Sierras seem bright or are more detailed than your previous speakers? I have the Sierras and I did not find that they were bright at all but were very detailed in the way they convey music. Could it be the placement of the Sierras or room issues (hard reflective surfaces)?

Bill

merrymaid520

12-03-10, 06:04 PM

2 channel. Its definitely a different sound.. and its definitely engaging, but I have to listen to it more for sure before I make my final decision about it. I think my main concern for it is will it be too forward for me.. Not sure yet.. but I definitely like the tonality of the speakers all around, but there was a song or two last night when I thought snare drum especially was too forward compared to the rest of the music.. again it just may be a familiarity issue, but over all I really do like it, just trying to figure out if its a keeper.

You could simply prefer warmer speakers or have not become accustom to the "sound" yet. Either way, you need to decide which sound is best for YOU. Being a sierra owner I am a bit biased but believe they are a pretty neutral speaker and actually tend to think they are a bit veiled hence the new NrT upgrade (new tweeter & Crossover) which adds to the top end detail even more. Some folks I know quite well who have heard the sierras also tend to agree the highs needed a little more "pizazz". Give them some more time and see what you think, dont let us make the decision for you though;)

Brandon

coolsax

12-04-10, 08:28 AM

Are you saying the Sierras seem bright or are more detailed than your previous speakers? I have the Sierras and I did not find that they were bright at all but were very detailed in the way they convey music. Could it be the placement of the Sierras or room issues (hard reflective surfaces)?

Bill

No Bill, I didn't find them bright at all, in fact I liked how the highs were nice and detailed and smooth, and definitely not fatiguing. The highs just seemed ..."forward" is the best word I can think.. i'm going to spend several hours with them today and I understand that is a familiarity thing as others have said. In all honesty, I want to try and A&B them with a pair of dynaudio excite 12s and pick the one I like more.. i'm hoping that the local dynaudio dealer will allow me to bring these in to compare, or allow me to demo the excites at home.., with the possibility of hard reflective surfaces.. I have the walls, and no current treatments, flooring is carpeted however, so there may be some reflections as a possibility.. I know that treatments will help, but I feel I need to pick a speaker then start treating the room.

Bill Mac

12-04-10, 08:43 AM

No Bill, I didn't find them bright at all, in fact I liked how the highs were nice and detailed and smooth, and definitely not fatiguing. The highs just seemed ..."forward" is the best word I can think.. i'm going to spend several hours with them today and I understand that is a familiarity thing as others have said. In all honesty, I want to try and A&B them with a pair of dynaudio excite 12s and pick the one I like more.. i'm hoping that the local dynaudio dealer will allow me to bring these in to compare, or allow me to demo the excites at home.., with the possibility of hard reflective surfaces.. I have the walls, and no current treatments, flooring is carpeted however, so there may be some reflections as a possibility.. I know that treatments will help, but I feel I need to pick a speaker then start treating the room.

coolsax,

I understand as I felt the same way about the Sierras although I never felt they were overly forward. But I guess that can depend on what speakers one owns before their new speakers. I have owned some speakers that were very fatiguing and it is not very enjoyable for extended music listening especially at louder volume levels.

I had Dynaudio Focus 140s and C1s before I bought the Sierras. I feel the Sierras compared quite well to the 140s with of course the C1s being a much better speaker overall. I will be interested to hear your thoughts on the comparison of the Sierra and the Excite 12. I have not heard the Excite 12s but have read they are a very good speaker. You have the right idea of trying to demo them in your room with the Sierras. If not bring the Sierras to the dealer to do a side by side demo. Good thinking:).

You have the right mindset in that your plans are to pick your speaker first then make corrections with your room. I have wood floors with a large area rug but no room treatments as of yet. I would like to add some wall panels but my system is in our livingroom so it would have to be something not overly intrusive.

Bill

coolsax

12-04-10, 09:04 AM

cschang

12-04-10, 09:52 AM

I auditioned the Excites back in october and really liked them, but of course its been close to 2 months so I can't for sure remember exactly what they sounded like, but i knew at the time that I wanted to audition the Sierras before i made that decision.. hopefully the dealer will be accommodating.
Make sure to level match when comparing. If you have to do it at the dealer, hopefully they will give you control over the experience.

coolsax

12-04-10, 04:14 PM

Well got another 3 hours with them today and I am now way less concerned about my thoughts of forwardness. It handled everything I threw at it today from Country and bluegrass to blues and jazz and a little Rock. It handled it so effortlessly, it just took the complicated guitar and piano licks and just threw them back out complete there and detailed. I was very impressed. I put in a CD for two bands that I have seen multiple times live (Dave Matthews Band and local band Asylum Street Spankers) and it presented the stage really close to what I normally hear when I hear them live I was very impressed. I think on some recordings that the snare can sometimes still be bit forward for my taste, but overall I'm really loving the speaker, and unless the Dynaudio completely wipes the wall with them(which i highly doubt, based on reviews and my recollection) I think i'll likely stay with the Sierra, b/c even if i think the Dynaudios win out by only a little, the value of the Sierras would likely not justify the price difference.

merrymaid520

12-11-10, 09:28 AM

Just posted this on the ascend forum as well......

Alright,
I finished up my sierra center Nrt upgrade and spent some time listening to it last night. First off, I had the old cabinet, so installation was a bear, but I managed

Setup...
I brought down the sierra Nrt into my theater room(lots of sound deadening paneling and a yamaha receiver) and setup one center on speaker A and the other on speaker B of my receivers input, both left channel. I then was able to use the remote to toggle between the two center channels to compare the differences.
Like pj, my first track on my own custom demo disc is Nils "Keith dont go". First thing I noticed was the extra top end sizzle, the guitar plucks and etc had more sizzle and energy. Then switching back to the original sierra, it sounded dull or veiled in comparison. I felt the guitar notes on the Nrt sounded much more realisitic regarding timbre accuracy compared to listening to a live guitar. I also noticed the male vocals sounded much more forward (more weight to them), where as the original sounded a bit boxy and hollow. As I listened to some other material (Jack Johnson, Dire Straits, Jesse Cook, and Fleetwood mac) I realized the imaging / soundstage was quite different among the two. I came to the conclusion that the Nrt produced material with an "airy" quality to all the notes, it made it seem like the soundstage grew and the imaging was more pronounced. Cymbal notes hung in the room longer while the original sierra seemed to play the note and it was gone. The sound of the Nrt was a large improvement in my mind. The extended high frequencies were very noticeable without any trace of sibilance. I can attest to Dave's measurements and how far the Nrt tweet extends on the top end!

Overall, I was most impressed I was surprised at the male vocal improvements as the midrange became more forward and fuller in my mind. The cymbals, hi hats, and guitar plucks all sounded so much more accurate, were more pronounced, and seemed to float in the air with better separation with the other notes being produced.

Congrats to Dave F and crew, the Nrt upgrade was well worth the price of admission Normally I am not one to notice subtle differences in the audio world(nor am I an expert) but the differences were very noticeable when comparing them side by side.

Equipment -
Yamaha Rx-v1600
Toshiba 4800 DVD player - source
Treated theater room, great for mids and highs, although I have no bass traps, so the bass is overly emphasized. Fine for movies

Tracks-
Nils Lofgren - Keith dont go, man in the moon
Daryl Stuermer (Genesis band player) - man on the corner, in too deep
Fleetwood mac - Go insane live, family man, and seven wonders
NIN - into the void
Santana - corazon espinado
Jack Johnson - rodeo clowns, upside down, breakdown
DIre Straits - ride across the river
Rob Thomas - all that I am
Jesse Cook - switchback, virtue, cafe mocha

Next on my list.....

Arrival of my Ascend Towers, name TBD

Thanks!
Brandon

ride525

12-12-10, 11:42 AM

kemitchell

12-12-10, 01:25 PM

Since I can't listen to the Sierra's in a store, just wondering if I could listen to something similar that might give me an idea of what I was getting into.

You should ask if there's any Sierra-1 owners near where you live, that would allow you to come by and demo them. You could ask over on the Ascend forum as well. I'm sure someone would help you out.

ride525

12-14-10, 05:24 PM

I'm considering adding the center channel to my Sierra-1.

I'm sorry if this has been discussed previously. The thread is huge.

Has anyone compared the center Sierra-1 (which I believe is simply the tweeter reoriented horizontally) with a regular Sierra-1 in it's vertical configuration as a center channel? I have the space so using a vertical configuration would work in my setup. Curious if there are any drawbacks to laying down a Sierra-1 horizontally.

Kramer asked this question over a month ago, and I did not see an answer. I think the excitement of the towers, it got missed. Just thought I would also see other's thoughts on vertical and horizontal use of the Sierra's and if any SQ difference is noticed.

cschang

12-14-10, 05:32 PM

Kramer asked this question over a month ago, and I did not see an answer. I think the excitement of the towers, it got missed. Just thought I would also see other's thoughts on vertical and horizontal use of the Sierra's and if any SQ difference is noticed.
I think it is posted somewhere on the Ascend forum, due to the design of the crossover which mimics a coaxial speaker, the difference is minimal, if any.

Easy enough to check, as all it takes is turning the tweeter 90 degrees.

Call/email Ascend and ask.

ride525

12-14-10, 06:45 PM

Well, the Sierra speakers are on their way.
(Well, maybe will be on their way tomorrow.)

Ordered three Sierra's with NrT. And two HTM-200 SE's.

ediblestarfish

12-14-10, 08:03 PM

Well, I am seriously thinking of buying LCR Sierra-1s. Don't laugh, but it would be a huge step up from my BIC DV62 pair and center. I have a Denon 3311, and Rythmik sub.

Since I can't listen to the Sierra's in a store, just wondering if I could listen to something similar that might give me an idea of what I was getting into.

Best Buy carries, the following, would any of them give me an idea of what I might expect from the Sierra's? I could listen to them in their Magnolia HT room.

• Bowers and Wilkins
• Definitive Technology
• Polk Audio
• Mirage
• Bose
• Energy
• Klipsch
• MartinLogan
• Insignia™
• Pioneer
• Yamaha

Hmm, they sound more neutral than the ones I've auditioned in that list. They are also much clearer and detailed than just about anything in the same price range. You might want to go audition some Dynaudio speakers since those match the closest to my ear.

I think after I first listened to them I thought,
"Oh, this is what normal is supposed to sound like!".

The bigger surprise I had was from the Rythmik sub. The sound is so clean and blends so seamlessly into the speakers, it's hard to tell it's playing.

Tallen234

12-20-10, 11:56 AM

Len B

12-23-10, 04:35 PM

I've been a loyal Ascend cu00stomer for 5 or 6 years since purchasing my CMB 170's and HTM-200's for a 5.1. system. I've been given permission to upgrade my HT. We have a entertainment unit coming from Crate and Barrel (wife's preference), so I will need to place my front speakers on the side books shelves and keep the center on a space directly underneath the TV. I have an Onkyo 876 (which may be upgraded when I get a 3D capable TV). So, I would like to put some new Sierra's with the NrT upgrade as my LCR. I am also thinking about getting the new HSU VTF-15 subwoofer. My room is pretty large probably 15' W x 35' L with a vaulted ceiling about 20' sloping down to 10 ft.
*-
So, should I use my existing 170's as rear surrounds, or should I keep my HTM-200's? Anything else I should consider?

Thanks!

Tallen,

I have a pretty large room as well (cathedral ceilings sloping, 20 x 13 x 16).
I use the Sierra NRTs as LCRs along with a VTF-15h. For my rears, I use the CBM-170s and the overall system sounds fantastic (especially for HT). If you had to go with just 5 speakers then I would think the CBM-170s should be your rears. What about having a 7.1 and keeping your HTMs as rear surrounds?

Kucimat

12-23-10, 05:07 PM

My 5.1 setup includes Sierra-NrT for LCR, Sierra-1 for my surrounds, and a SVS PB-12Plus for the sub. I have this in a large greatroom configuration with 18' vaulted ceilings in the living room where the TV/speakers are. This setup sounded great before the NrT upgrade and now is truely awesome! Can't wait to see what else Dave F. has up his sleeve in the future!

I've been a loyal Ascend cu00stomer for 5 or 6 years since purchasing my CMB 170's and HTM-200's for a 5.1. system. I've been given permission to upgrade my HT. We have a entertainment unit coming from Crate and Barrel (wife's preference), so I will need to place my front speakers on the side books shelves and keep the center on a space directly underneath the TV. I have an Onkyo 876 (which may be upgraded when I get a 3D capable TV). So, I would like to put some new Sierra's with the NrT upgrade as my LCR. I am also thinking about getting the new HSU VTF-15 subwoofer. My room is pretty large probably 15' W x 35' L with a vaulted ceiling about 20' sloping down to 10 ft.
*-
So, should I use my existing 170's as rear surrounds, or should I keep my HTM-200's? Anything else I should consider?

Thanks!

ride525

12-23-10, 05:13 PM

I have a question for you Sierra owners. (I just became a Sierra owner less than a week ago.)

Question actually comes from a current thread, about "$2k budget, Ascend, Totem, or other". Question is from sensitivity rating of Sierra's, 86.5. I don't really find them hard to drive with my Denon 3311, which the OP in the other thread also recently purchased. In fact, I really don't notice a difference from my previous speakers which had sensitivity rating of 90.

Any thoughts from Sierra owners about Sierra's being hard to drive? Compared to other speakers that is?

Thanks,

Jeff

merrymaid520

12-23-10, 05:18 PM

I have a question for you Sierra owners. (I just became a Sierra owner less than a week ago.)

Question actually comes from a current thread, about "$2k budget, Ascend, Totem, or other". Question is from sensitivity rating of Sierra's, 86.5. I don't really find them hard to drive with my Denon 3311, which the OP in the other thread also recently purchased. In fact, I really don't notice a difference from my previous speakers which had sensitivity rating of 90.

Any thoughts from Sierra owners about Sierra's being hard to drive?

Thanks,

Jeff

I just posted on that topic in the other thread:)

Len B

12-23-10, 07:49 PM

I have a question for you Sierra owners. (I just became a Sierra owner less than a week ago.)

Question actually comes from a current thread, about "$2k budget, Ascend, Totem, or other". Question is from sensitivity rating of Sierra's, 86.5. I don't really find them hard to drive with my Denon 3311, which the OP in the other thread also recently purchased. In fact, I really don't notice a difference from my previous speakers which had sensitivity rating of 90.

Any thoughts from Sierra owners about Sierra's being hard to drive?

Thanks,

Jeff

They are definitely not hard to drive. I'm using a Denon 3808 and the speakers are very responsive. I can't imagine their dynamics improving much with a separate amp.

ride525

12-23-10, 08:09 PM

They are definitely not hard to drive. I'm using a Denon 3808 and the speakers are very responsive. I can't imagine their dynamics improving much with a separate amp.

Thanks for yours and Brandon's responses. I edited my post. I just wanted to know if Sierra owners found the speakers especially hard to drive, given their 86.5 sensitivity rating, compared to other speakers.

Jeff

kbosch74

01-06-11, 10:47 AM

My Sierra-1's arrived yesterday! Wow. I replaced a pair of Infinity RS8 towers and CC1 center channel. I expected an improvement...I did not expect to be floored. My first thought when I plugged in The Beatles Love CD was..."I should have done this years ago". Best $1,400 I've spent in a long time.

I wanted the natural bamboo color, but was worried about the contrast to (a) the stands and (b) the dominant dark woods throughout my living room. But the contrast is beautiful...even my wife, who originally thought I was crazy not going with black, really likes the look.

Here are a few pictures. The last is icing on the cake...my kids were also in awe of the new sound in the living room. I put Roger Waters' In the Flesh Live DVD in and this was their instant reaction:

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m77/kbosch74/Sierras.jpg

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m77/kbosch74/Sierras3.jpg

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m77/kbosch74/Sierras4.jpg

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m77/kbosch74/Kids2.jpg

Sam1000

01-06-11, 11:44 AM

Beautiful setup..Did you get the new Sierra-NrT?

kbosch74

01-06-11, 12:13 PM

Beautiful setup..Did you get the new Sierra-NrT?

I did not. I figured the upgrade over my previous speakers would be sufficient enough to satisfy me. That said, I'll kep reading about it and maybe do it down the line. Kind of like buying a Ferrari and then skipping on the upgraded wheels. But you still have a Ferrari!

seemonkey

01-06-11, 08:06 PM

merrymaid520

01-06-11, 09:00 PM

Hi all-

I'm considering Ascends for a dedicated theater that I'm just putting the finishing touches on. I could use some opinions from Sierra owners. The room is 23x16 with a sloped 8-9 foot ceiling. I had it professionally acoustically treated. I'm guessing I'll use it for about %70 theater and %30 two-channel music. While my music usage won't account for as much time it's very important to me. I don't listen very loudly, rarely over 80db. I'm leaning toward either an Integra 80.2 with Emotiva amps with 9 channels or a Denon 4311 with 11 channels, (also Emotiva.) I have an Epik Empire that I'll probably use in the room. I'm leaning toward Sierra NRTs across the front but I'm not sure what to do with the rest of the room. Given my background what's the feel for what is necessary? Would I benefit much from going Sierras all around or would 340s or 170s suffice for the other channels? What about the towers? Would it be worth waiting? Also what are people's opinion about the components I'm considering?

I'm also considering going 5.1 with Salk HT2-TL's for the front and Song Surrounds for the rear and skipping external amplification, (for now.) I'd probably use my current Denon 4310 if I go this route. Has anyone heard both or have an opinion about the advantages or disadvantages between the two systems?

Lastly, has anyone had any trouble with communication from Ascend's sales department via email or PMs from their site? I haven't been able to get a response from them from some of my questions. It's only been a few days but in that time their competitors have been very responsive.

Thanks very much for your input.

You have chosen two very good and well respected speaker brands. I have heard the Salk song tower RT's and own several ascend models including a Nrt center channel. If you can audition both, do so. The ascend towers will be a few months yet, I have a pair on order:). For you, I would get the best front pair you can swing, you can get by with lesser surrounds for HT duty. Both Salk and ascends lesser models would be more than adequate. If you can wait I will have my towers in a few weeks and will be comparing them to my buddy's song towers if you're looking for comparisons. The ascend towers will be about half the cost of the h2-tl's. The salks offer more custom options for finishes too. As for the equipment you mentioned, should be just fine. I feel putting more $ into the front three speakers is best.

Hope this helps....audition if you can and chose what "you" like.

Brandon

merrymaid520

01-06-11, 09:03 PM

One more thing, call ascend tomorrow and ask for Dave. I think he gets bombarded with emails, so phone might be best.

Bill Mac

01-06-11, 09:13 PM

Hi all-

I'm considering Ascends for a dedicated theater that I'm just putting the finishing touches on. I could use some opinions from Sierra owners. The room is 23x16 with a sloped 8-9 foot ceiling. I had it professionally acoustically treated. I'm guessing I'll use it for about %70 theater and %30 two-channel music. While my music usage won't account for as much time it's very important to me. I don't listen very loudly, rarely over 80db. I'm leaning toward either an Integra 80.2 with Emotiva amps with 9 channels or a Denon 4311 with 11 channels, (also Emotiva.) I have an Epik Empire that I'll probably use in the room. I'm leaning toward Sierra NRTs across the front but I'm not sure what to do with the rest of the room. Given my background what's the feel for what is necessary? Would I benefit much from going Sierras all around or would 340s or 170s suffice for the other channels? What about the towers? Would it be worth waiting? Also what are people's opinion about the components I'm considering?

I'm also considering going 5.1 with Salk HT2-TL's for the front and Song Surrounds for the rear and skipping external amplification, (for now.) I'd probably use my current Denon 4310 if I go this route. Has anyone heard both or have an opinion about the advantages or disadvantages between the two systems?

Lastly, has anyone had any trouble with communication from Ascend's sales department via email or PMs from their site? I haven't been able to get a response from them from some of my questions. It's only been a few days but in that time their competitors have been very responsive.

Thanks very much for your input.

seemonkey,

Welcome to AVS:). I own both the Sierras and Salk SongTowers. So I would also say you are choosing two very good speaker companies. Whether the Ascends would be a good choice in your large room would depend on the volumes you listen to IMO. Of course the HT2-TLs are an excellent speaker and quite a step up over the Sierras in quality and of course cost.

If I had the budget I would certainly go with the Salks but if cost is an issue then the Sierras would be a great choice as well:).

Bill

seemonkey

01-06-11, 11:43 PM

avsnoob10

01-07-11, 08:32 AM

merrymaid520

01-07-11, 10:38 AM

Thank you both for the replies. I'm unfortunately not located conveniently to be able to audition many speakers so I greatly appreciate and rely on the opinions offered by people such as you. So is the consensus that the trade off of fewer but better speakers and weaker components is better than superior components and and an 11.1 Audyssey DSX system with lower quality speakers? Does that hold up with primarily home theater use? What about mixing the Salks with Ascend 170s so I could still get to 9.1 within my budget? I know that's normally a no-no but I'm not sure how close of a timbre match the two brands are. Thank you again for your help.

SM,
No problem. The Salk H2 TL's are in a completely separate playing field than the Sierras, considering their size and cost. The Sierra Nrt's may compare more favorably with the top end improvements but in terms of sheer output, the salks are a much larger tower versus a bookshelf. The new ascend towers may level the palying field a bit, but still a large difference in cost, again your choice. As for where to spend your $, having the best speakers you can afford will offer you much better gains in performance than fancy seperates especially amps. A decent mid level receiver will be more than adequate unless you play material at ear bleeding volumes where the extra headroom would come in handy. You can always add the seperate amp down the road (such as a 2h one for the mains) and use the receiver to power the rest. I am not a fan of room correction softwares etc, I level everything using a SPL meter and take room measurements with REW for subwoofer integration. I do not want software "correcting" things for me. If your room was professioanlly treated, this should eliminate the need for any fancy Audyssey programs etc.

As for mixing brands for surround duty, I would say it depends if you listen to Multi channel music in which timbre matching would be critical or even newer blu ray movies with better surround reproduction. I generally prefer to match brands if at all possible. Both ascend and salk seem to target a neutral sound, so if it came down to it, I am sure they would blend just fine.

As for the number of speakers, thats a tough call, to me I have a theater room(small) with 7.1 and its more than enough. I cannot imagine having 9.1 or even 11.1 with a larger room, to me its overkill.

If you are unable to audition, try and gather some feedback from reading through the salk and ascend owners threads to get an idea of their "sound" and maybe it will help steer you one way or another. I am a bit biased being an ascend owner but two of my buddies own salks and they are some of the best speakers I have heard to date:) I wish I could comment more on the ascend towers, but I would only be going off of others opinions since I have not heard them personally. There are some listening impression listed under the ascend tower thread, even compared against the Song towers.

whew......that was long:p

Good luck,
B

Randy Bessinger

01-07-11, 10:50 AM

Hi all-

Lastly, has anyone had any trouble with communication from Ascend's sales department via email or PMs from their site? I haven't been able to get a response from them from some of my questions. It's only been a few days but in that time their competitors have been very responsive.

Thanks very much for your input.I believe DavidF is at the CES show talking to his vendors but I am sure he will respond. He has excellent customer service.

Lucas 89L98

01-07-11, 11:11 AM

I believe DavidF is at the CES show talking to his vendors but I am sure he will respond. He has excellent customer service.

Agreed, he is up at CES.
Customer service is always great with him before AND AFTER purchases

Ascend

01-07-11, 02:19 PM

Lastly, has anyone had any trouble with communication from Ascend's sales department via email or PMs from their site? I haven't been able to get a response from them from some of my questions. It's only been a few days but in that time their competitors have been very responsive.

Thanks very much for your input.

Hi seemonkey,

Hello from CES 2011! I sincerely apologize for our lack of responsiveness over the last few days. While our factory is open, our support staff is here in Las Vegas meeting with our vendors etc. We are a few days behind on emails right now :(

If your needs are urgent, please give us a call at 949-366-1455. The office phone lines have been transferred to our cell phones. If we don't pick up the phone immediately, please leave a message and we will get back to you quickly.

In the meantime, CES is looking good this year and there is definitely a very positive atmosphere with regard to the global economy and consumer electronics in general. This in stark contrast to the last few years.

seemonkey

01-07-11, 07:51 PM

SM,
No problem. The Salk H2 TL's are in a completely separate playing field than the Sierras, considering their size and cost. The Sierra Nrt's may compare more favorably with the top end improvements but in terms of sheer output, the salks are a much larger tower versus a bookshelf. The new ascend towers may level the palying field a bit, but still a large difference in cost, again your choice. As for where to spend your $, having the best speakers you can afford will offer you much better gains in performance than fancy seperates especially amps. A decent mid level receiver will be more than adequate unless you play material at ear bleeding volumes where the extra headroom would come in handy. You can always add the seperate amp down the road (such as a 2h one for the mains) and use the receiver to power the rest. I am not a fan of room correction softwares etc, I level everything using a SPL meter and take room measurements with REW for subwoofer integration. I do not want software "correcting" things for me. If your room was professioanlly treated, this should eliminate the need for any fancy Audyssey programs etc.

As for mixing brands for surround duty, I would say it depends if you listen to Multi channel music in which timbre matching would be critical or even newer blu ray movies with better surround reproduction. I generally prefer to match brands if at all possible. Both ascend and salk seem to target a neutral sound, so if it came down to it, I am sure they would blend just fine.

As for the number of speakers, thats a tough call, to me I have a theater room(small) with 7.1 and its more than enough. I cannot imagine having 9.1 or even 11.1 with a larger room, to me its overkill.

If you are unable to audition, try and gather some feedback from reading through the salk and ascend owners threads to get an idea of their "sound" and maybe it will help steer you one way or another. I am a bit biased being an ascend owner but two of my buddies own salks and they are some of the best speakers I have heard to date:) I wish I could comment more on the ascend towers, but I would only be going off of others opinions since I have not heard them personally. There are some listening impression listed under the ascend tower thread, even compared against the Song towers.

whew......that was long:p

Good luck,
B

Brandon,

Thanks a ton for your thoughtful reply. It gives me a lot to think about. I'll probably hold off a bit and see how the Ascend towers are received and then go from there.

seemonkey

01-07-11, 07:53 PM

Hi seemonkey,

Hello from CES 2011! I sincerely apologize for our lack of responsiveness over the last few days. While our factory is open, our support staff is here in Las Vegas meeting with our vendors etc. We are a few days behind on emails right now :(

If your needs are urgent, please give us a call at 949-366-1455. The office phone lines have been transferred to our cell phones. If we don't pick up the phone immediately, please leave a message and we will get back to you quickly.

In the meantime, CES is looking good this year and there is definitely a very positive atmosphere with regard to the global economy and consumer electronics in general. This in stark contrast to the last few years.

David,

Thank you for the response. As soon as someone mentioned CES I figured that would be the case. I look forward to speaking with you after the dust settles.

Chu Gai

01-07-11, 07:58 PM

I believe DavidF is at the CES show talking to his vendors but I am sure he will respond. He has excellent customer service.Excellent customer service is available at the nearby AVN Awards that are ongoing. An excellent place to meet with vendors. :D

nocrapman

01-07-11, 08:35 PM

Could folks who have heard/owned both the Stock Sierras as well as the NrT ones, comment on the difference in the sound... more detailed/brighter/different??
I am considering Seirras for a LCR config and am debating which tweeter to go to. For anyone who has Salk STs, which one would come closer to the Salk sound I am used to/like?

cschang

01-07-11, 09:40 PM

smurraybhm

01-07-11, 10:05 PM

Does any of you have any suggestions of matching a dipole surround speakers to Sierra-1s (or new towers when they become available)? Since Ascend does not make one was considering Axiom QS8 but don't know how well they would tonally match to Sierras. I like Dipole's diffusing effect for surrounds, primarily HT use.
I bought some 4bps from Aperion and have been very pleased with how they pair with my Sierras. I consider both Axioms as well but settled on Aperion because they offer great customer service like Ascend and the 4's also were the right size for the location. They aren't huge - but they sound great for both movies and music. Aperion is coming out with an updated version of the 5bp (which was switchable between dipole and bipole) so you may want to contact them to get additional details.

audiophilehi

01-07-11, 10:25 PM

nocrapman

01-08-11, 07:04 AM

The NrT is more comparable to the Salk ST's.

The non-NrT have a little less treble and are a little less forward midrange.

I find that I have to sometimes turn down the treble a wee bit on the Salks. So may be the non-Nrt version might fit the bill?
Thanks!

Nachmanowicz

01-08-11, 08:32 AM

Hello from Brazil.

I'm probably soon going to be one of the few brazilian Sierra-1 owners.

Bill Mac

01-08-11, 09:49 AM

I am looking for surrounds and a center to go with my 90 db sensitivity Von Schweikert VR-5 HSE speakers.

I was considering both the Sierra's and the Salk Veracity HT1 but now a little gun shy due to the low sensitivity of both.

I have Definitive Technology BP2x surrounds which I hope to change out to a direct radiating speaker in the near future. As much as the surrounds are not as crucial to match to the LCR speakers, matching the center to the R&L speakers is. I would not use anything other than a Von Schweikert speaker for your center speaker. Its really not a good idea to have mismatched speakers for your LCR.

Bill

audiophilehi

01-08-11, 10:46 AM

I have Definitive Technology BP2x surrounds which I hope to change out to a direct radiating speaker in the near future. As much as the surrounds are not as crucial to match to the LCR speakers, matching the center to the R&L speakers is. I would not use anything other than a Von Schweikert speaker for your center speaker. Its really not a good idea to have mismatched speakers for your LCR.

Bill

Thanks Bill!!

Nachmanowicz

01-08-11, 10:49 AM

Also I must point out that the highlight in kbosch's setup are his kids!

=) really cute!

merrymaid520

01-08-11, 11:20 AM

I find that I have to sometimes turn down the treble a wee bit on the Salks. So may be the non-Nrt version might fit the bill?
Thanks!

The Nrt version (I have one) definitely has more treble (top end) energy & sizzle. Whether you consider this to be too much or not is a tough call. Compared to the stock sierra, its quite noticeable. I consider the Nrt to be more detailed and the mids slightly clearer and more forward, all good improvements in my mind. If the Salks are to bright for you, the stock sierras may be perfect.

Nachmanowicz

01-08-11, 12:36 PM

Erm... one question, how much is the NrT upgrade?

krs

01-08-11, 01:00 PM

The Nrt version (I have one) definitely has more treble (top end) energy & sizzle. Whether you consider this to be too much or not is a tough call. Compared to the stock sierra, its quite noticeable. I consider the Nrt to be more detailed and the mids slightly clearer and more forward, all good improvements in my mind. If the Salks are to bright for you, the stock sierras may be perfect.

I'm glad to see this description, merrymaid, as I wondered if my ears are overly sensitive to shrill sounds. I know you to be a regular in this and the Ascend forums who seems to refrain from excessively promotional posts.

I bought a pair of Sierra-1's from B-stock recently and opted to have the NrT upgrade done before shipment because of the advantegeous pricing and the enthusiastic (KoolAid) postings. I felt it was inevitable that I'd want to upgrade so I saved the $90. by having it done before hearing the speakers either way.

Now I wish that I'd paid the extra cost of doing the upgrade myself or been able to hear the speakers without the new tweeter and crossover. I'm finding the highs to be piercingly sharp, even harsh and painful with certain selections that I've generally enjoyed previously.

It's beyond my Marantz amp's ability to adjust out and that amp is generally fairly warm sounding. I've gone to the trouble of adding a Yaqin tube buffer behind my CD player in case I was hearing a digital portion of my music previously never reproduced by any speaker I'd owned or a sound element introduced by the player itself (Marantz CD5004) but that didn't help much, if at all.

I have an email in to Dina asking if it's possible for me to buy a set of the original parts and hadn't thought of the show as reason for not hearing back.
I'm in my 30 day trial period and unless I can cut back this treble sound I'm afraid that these otherwise excellent speakers will have to go.

Now from your post it seems that I'm not (necessarily) a freak of nature and that perhaps it's only that I should have tried the Sierras in original form in the first place. The detail is certainly magnificent in all but the highest tones for me and I'd really hate to feel I had to return the speakers over this intolerance of the new configuration.

krs

01-08-11, 01:04 PM

Erm... one question, how much is the NrT upgrade?

The $90. amount mentioned in my above post is NOT the cost of the NrT upgrade. It is an approximation of the amount I saved from the total cost of an upgrade by having it done in factory as part of my original speaker purchase under current sale conditions.

I just felt it necessary to prevent any misunderstanding once I'd seen your query, nachmanowicz.

merrymaid520

01-08-11, 01:11 PM

I'm glad to see this description, merrymaid, as I wondered if my ears are overly sensitive to shrill sounds. I know you to be a regular in this and the Ascend forums who seems to refrain from excessively promotional posts.

I bought a pair of Sierra-1's from B-stock recently and opted to have the NrT upgrade done before shipment because of the advantegeous pricing and the enthusiastic (KoolAid) postings. I felt it was inevitable that I'd want to upgrade so I saved the $90. by having it done before hearing the speakers either way.

Now I wish that I'd paid the extra cost of doing the upgrade myself or been able to hear the speakers without the new tweeter and crossover. I'm finding the highs to be piercingly sharp, even harsh and painful with certain selections that I've generally enjoyed previously.

It's beyond my Marantz amp's ability to adjust out and that amp is generally fairly warm sounding. I've gone to the trouble of adding a Yaqin tube buffer behind my CD player in case I was hearing a digital portion of my music previously never reproduced by any speaker I'd owned or a sound element introduced by the player itself (Marantz CD5004) but that didn't help much, if at all.

I have an email in to Dina asking if it's possible for me to buy a set of the original parts and hadn't thought of the show as reason for not hearing back.
I'm in my 30 day trial period and unless I can cut back this treble sound I'm afraid that these otherwise excellent speakers will have to go.

Now from your post it seems that I'm not (necessarily) a freak of nature and that perhaps it's only that I should have tried the Sierras in original form in the first place. The detail is certainly magnificent in all but the highest tones for me and I'd really hate to feel I had to return the speakers over this intolerance of the new configuration.

No problem. Definitely try the stock sierras if you can. If you find they are still too bright for your tastes, no worries. Lots of good choices out there:) What speakers did you come from? Just trying to get an understanding of your taste. The sierras are a very revealing speaker especially with the Nrt upgrade. Depending on the material you listen to, it may be too much or you are not yet accustom to the sound. In the end, don't keep them if you don't like them. My next suggestion would be the Salks if internet direct is your preference.

Good luck and dont hesitate to ask more questions!

Brandon

merrymaid520

01-08-11, 01:12 PM

Erm... one question, how much is the NrT upgrade?

I think roughly $170 per speaker.

Nachmanowicz

01-08-11, 01:15 PM

I think roughly $170 per speaker.

I believe I'll be happy with my NON NrT Sierra-1's :D

cschang

01-08-11, 01:20 PM

....I'd really hate to feel I had to return the speakers over this intolerance of the new configuration.
krs, if you are within the trial period, you shouldn't feel bad about the return or exchange. That is what it is for.

krs

01-08-11, 02:29 PM

Thank you both, merrymaid and cschang, for responding.

I have a HT setup upstairs and decided to revamp my downstairs workshop/studio sound capability. I'd been using an old Pioneer receiver and a pair of gigantic Wharfedale W90D's that I'd bought in 1969 to listen to PBS classical and jazz/blues stations out of Portland, OR. My 2000+ collection of CD's were in a box in the garage, unused for years.

The Sierra's are part of the upgrade. I have a small leftover subwoofer and the Wharfedales are used as tables because one tweeter fried years ago and I'm pretty sure that the crossover in the other gave up a capacitor or something a long time ago. They mostly play resounding base notes only if hooked up and the only reason I haven't gotten rid of them is their use as tables for various junk and my downstairs coffeepot. :) They're not contenders, in other words.

I wanted a purity of sound, and the Sierras provide that to a remarkable and enjoyable degree. They were somewhat thin before the sub came into play but now reproduce sound better than any speaker I'd heard, for their small size. It's really only been the high element, and that mostly with blues music selections that has bothered me, which is why I said I'd hate to return them because of that - they're SO nice in other ways.

If I can arrange to de-update them I think it may be the answer for me, provided that there's time left in my trial period to get it done.

I'm walking impaired and live in the hills (far from the madding crowd :) ). Although there is a Best Buy about 30 miles away it's a difficult trip to go to listen, so I do almost all worldly interaction on the net.

Chu Gai

01-08-11, 03:02 PM

cschang

01-08-11, 05:26 PM

Curtis, what's the take on the perceived "brightness" on the upgrade from what you know? Has the overall FR changed or could it be due to greater horizontal dispersion suggesting more aggressive room treatments at the sides.
The FR of the NrT has certainly changed. It certainly has high extension and energy on the top end. Also, the midrange is flatter.

In krs's thoughts....I am sure they are MUCH brighter than his circa 1969 Wharfedales. A drastic difference.

farmingdad

01-09-11, 09:56 PM

I just did an Nrt upgrade to a pair of Sierras this wknd and didn't find them too bright at all. Previously, if anything I felt I was always bumping the treble a little as our room is fairly well treated, but the new Nrt was exactly what I was looking for. System we were listening on is: Parasound 2100 pre-amp, Adcom 5400 amp, Polk PS505 sub below 80 Hz, Yamaha CDP with dual Burr-Brown DACs/ oppo 83 SACD through analog outs, pro-ject expression III turntable, pangea stands. I changed one speaker at a time to facilitate the comparison. Both speakers were placed on their stands, side by side, well into the room, centered in the listening area. My 10 year old manually switched the balance control "on command" as numerous mono recordings were played. Our first three comparisons (again all in Mono) were the SACD of Nat King Cole's "The Very Thought of You", Beatles' "Rubber Soul", and Bob Dylan's "The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan". It was immediately apparent which speaker had the Nrt upgrade! As my daugter "panned" from the stock Sierra to the Nrt, it was if another of the proverbial "layers" had been removed. My wife and children (who were unaware of which speaker was which) were all able to identify the Nrt. Not only was the Nrt's music more detailed, it also felt more airy and open. Highs felt not only less stuffy and more articulate but also more natural. The neat part about running this configuration with a sub was the ability to anchor ones listening of the recording on the bass line, and judge the shift in highs/mids as my daughter panned the knobs. Each time the recording panned to the Nrt it was like the room opened up to a fuller soundstage and more realistic portrayal of the music. Needless to say Nrt is a keeper for me!

kbosch74

01-10-11, 08:18 AM

Also I must point out that the highlight in kbosch's setup are his kids!

=) really cute!

Thanks! I tend to agree, but I'm a bit biased in that respect.

f1restarter

01-13-11, 01:54 PM

I am e-Baying the Sierra-1 and am wondering if the 7 year warranty is transferable. Any idea? Thanks.

Chu Gai

01-13-11, 02:12 PM

I am e-Baying the Sierra-1 and am wondering if the 7 year warranty is transferable. Any idea? Thanks.

http://www.ascendacoustics.com/pages/support/warranty.html

King Titus

01-13-11, 07:21 PM

I have both. Stock Sierra's and upgraded version.
First day has me preferring the originals. (Actually love in a manly way)
The cymbal strikes me as almost a white noise on certain tracks.
It lingers on vs decaying off.
Just my taste/opinion.

Ron Alcasid

01-15-11, 02:01 PM

merrymaid520

01-15-11, 02:36 PM

I guess I'm in the minority with krs. I've had the Sierra Nrt's for about two weeks. It does reveal more detail than many speakers I've heard but I'm finding the overall presentation to be slightly on the aggressive side.

Good feedback. Dave did mention the Nrt upgrade would not be for everyone considering the extra top end energy and detail. At least prospective Sierra owners have two options:)

King Titus

01-16-11, 10:39 AM

Good feedback. Dave did mention the Nrt upgrade would not be for everyone considering the extra top end energy and detail. At least prospective Sierra owners have two options:)

Plus 1

HOTDIGITY

01-16-11, 01:56 PM

Those considering the upcoming towers should take note that they will have the NrT tweeters as well and may not like the extended top end. Maybe non-NrT version will be made available for those who don't like that.

Ron Alcasid

01-17-11, 10:38 AM

I guess I'm in the minority with krs. I've had the Sierra Nrt's for about two weeks. It does reveal more detail than many speakers I've heard but I'm finding the overall presentation to be slightly on the aggressive side.

I spent most of this weekend trying to get my Sierra NrT's sounding right. I ended up toeing them more than I ususally do and I also adjusted the positions of my acoustic panels. With each little adjustment I made, I reran the room correction setup, did some critical listening and repeated the cycle until I was happy with what I heard.

Now everything sounds just right. Previously the sibilance was harsh and sharp and now it's very crisp and nearly perfectly rendered. Cymbal crashes sound natural from the initial impact to the decay. It know it's cliche but I am hearing so many tiny details that my previous speakers glossed over.

If anyone is finding the NrT's too bright I recommend that you make the effort to experiment with your setup. In my case the Sierra's wide dispersion was putting out a lot more midrange energy into my room than my previous speakers causing voices to sound hard and edgy. But after some tweaking the Sierra NrT's sound fantastic.

cschang

01-17-11, 11:20 AM

Ron...which room correction system do you use?

Ron Alcasid

01-17-11, 11:27 AM

Ron...which room correction system do you use?

Anthem Room Correction

millerwill

01-17-11, 11:35 AM

I have the early Sierra-1's and started on my DIY tweeter upgrade, but ran into a problem with the crossover board: it doesn't look like 4 Phillips head screws that hold it in, but rather something with black 'knobs'. A Phillips screwdriver doesn't fit; almost looks like a Allen wrench would fit, but the ones I tried didn't. I'm about ready to cry 'surrender' and just send everything back to Ascend to be sure to get it right.

merrymaid520

01-17-11, 12:33 PM

millerwill

01-17-11, 01:49 PM

See here.....
http://forum.ascendacoustics.com/showpost.php?p=35995&postcount=32

Thanks much. At this point, though, I think I'm going to send them in to Ascend and let them do it, to make sure it's done well.

merrymaid520

01-17-11, 02:37 PM

Thanks much. At this point, though, I think I'm going to send them in to Ascend and let them do it, to make sure it's done well.

After having to upgrade just one center sierra (old cabinet vendor), I dont blame you plus you get the extra warranty. Good luck!

millerwill

01-17-11, 06:07 PM

After having to upgrade just one center sierra (old cabinet vendor), I dont blame you plus you get the extra warranty. Good luck!

Thanks much. Yes, this afternoon, I did pack up my L, R, and C Sierra's, along with the package of 3 nrt upgrade kits, and UPS'ed them all to Ascend.

In the meantime, I moved my 2 HTM-200 DSX Wides into the L and R position, and my back surround (I run a 8.1 setup) HTM-200 into the Center position. So I thus now have a 5.1 setup, with 5 HTM-200's plus a Seaton SubMersive HP--and MAN, does it sound nice! So for HT, in a modest sized room (mine's just over 2000 cu ft), it would be hard to beat this arrangement for the price. (I'm reminded of the report that Dr. Hsu preferred to use HTM-200's for all the satellite speakers to go with one of his subs.)

DreamCatcher

01-17-11, 08:21 PM

HOTDIGITY

01-18-11, 08:42 AM

merrymaid520

01-18-11, 09:34 AM

So all you Sierra-1 and now Nrt owners.......
what's the consensus?
Is the upgrade worth it?
Does it put the Sierra's into another league or
does it make them too bright?
I'm ready to pull the trigger on this upgrade but would love to get some
insight from those who have already compared them.
Thanks.......

DreamCatcher

DC,
I concurr with HD's post below. I always felt (among some other folks I know who have heard them) that the original sierras were a bit too laid back and lacked that bit of detail and air on the top end. The Nrt upgrade was easily worth the cost of admission giving me the extra high FQ detail, air, better imaging, and a more forward midrange. Again, these attributes may not suit you or others out there, its a personal preference. The sierras on their own are a fantastic speaker for the price, the upgrade just increases performance to another level;)

Bagel187

01-18-11, 11:37 AM

Whelp I've been living with my Sierras for about 5 days now and I can't say enough good things about them. They reveal things in songs I don't even hear with my Genelecs at work. They're so good the wife and I have been re-listening to all our favorite music. It's fun to hear a familiar track like it's the first time again.

I didn't even buy them for music. I spend most of my time with HT and gaming and they are kicking some serious butt in that arena too. Besides the crystal clear imaging and clarity the most noticeable improvement is how they blend in with my sub (Outlaw LFM-1EX). The bass never feels thin near my 80hz crossover. In fact the speakers kind of disappear altogether and if you close your eyes it seems like there is a cloud of sound instead of 3 boxes radiating noise at me like before.

Finally, the Dark Cherry Gloss finish is gorgeous. I got them B-Stock and I can't find a single thing wrong with them. Even lined up together in direct sunlight. Pictures do not do these speakers justice.

DreamCatcher

01-18-11, 02:05 PM

Good stuff guys, THANKS!
Since I'm on, hopefully, the pre-order list for the Towers,
I'll probably be using one of my Sierra's for Center speaker duty, at least until the proposed "Monster Center" becomes available.
And my other two Sierra's for DSX Wide speaker duty:)
So the Nrt upgrade is something I should probably do before the Towers arrive, which could be months away yet.
At least that's the plan..........

DreamCatcher

Grandarf

01-18-11, 05:03 PM

I bought one of the first run pairs of the Sierra-1's back in 2007, so I have lived with them for some time.

The originals always sounded excellent to me. Upgrading was just a natural process for me. After doing the upgrade the differences were very apparant to me. Other than the improved high frequency detail/air/dynamics, I noticed improved imaging and midrange detail. The bass is pretty much the same, meaning very good. Another veil, or two, has been lifted.

So, if you prefer an extremely accurate, revealing sound that is a bit more forward than laid back, this could be for you.

DC,
I concurr with HD's post below. I always felt (among some other folks I know who have heard them) that the original sierras were a bit too laid back and lacked that bit of detail and air on the top end. The Nrt upgrade was easily worth the cost of admission giving me the extra high FQ detail, air, better imaging, and a more forward midrange. Again, these attributes may not suit you or others out there, its a personal preference. The sierras on their own are a fantastic speaker for the price, the upgrade just increases performance to another level;)

++

Was listening to them again yesterday and have no issue with brightness, I'd say they're actually more neutral than the stock sierras but would definitely hesitate in calling them forward. The Sierras are a touch laid back, and if the NrTs are indeed forward sounding as opposed to neutral, then at worst they would be slightly forward... But at this point, I'd feel much safer to call them neutral than forward. But they're definitely more forward than the stock sierras, so YMMV.

When going for 340SE to Sierra, I did note that the Sierras weren't as neutral as the 340SE. But, there was a definite improvement in bass and imaging, and to a slighter extent also in detail/resolution. Imho, the improvements of Sierras were worth the cost. Presentation, neutral vs slightly laid back, the 340SE had the edge, but detail, imaging, resolution, etc, all taken into consideration, the presentation difference just wasn't a big deal.

The Sierras NrT are a closer match to the 340SE in terms of treble and presentation I think, which is a good thing imho. Like the Sierras did to the 340SE, they pretty much improve on everything vs stock... IMHO, NrTs win hands down, the presentation is better, they can project a more lifelike image, high end definitely more detailed imho, better imaging, mids, more efficient... For 350$ or whatever it costs for upgrading a pair, I'd definitely recommend it, unless you really like the 'top' end of the Sierras and wouldn't want to change a thing... I think the actual detail/resolution improvement is greater in stock vs NrT than it was with 340SE vs Sierras... Definite two thumbs up from me! :D Now if I ever got to finish up that pair of Statement Monitors that could be a fun comparison...

edit: For the efficiency, I think the bigger difference might be presentation, as (some) mids and treble are more into the room, that might be why they seem more sensitive... Bit more forward presentation might seem to give more output... Anyhow, imho, the NrTs have a better bass/mid/balance than the stock... Even if it was just that improvement, I'd prefer NrTs. But for Sierras vs 340SE, if you could have improved bass/imaging/resolution/etc. of 340SE to match Sierras without sounding a bit laid back, I'd have preferred that. Still, that said, stock Sierras presentation is definitely not all bad, can definitely crank them loud without ever being bothered by the high end, maybe more forgiving of bright recordings...

King Titus

01-19-11, 11:07 PM

malaplace

01-20-11, 12:14 AM

Sam1000

01-20-11, 02:34 AM

This sounds like room issues. I had a similar problem until I treated some problem areas of my room.

What room treatment did you use? How many panels and locations to get rid of the reflection issue?

Ascend

01-20-11, 02:58 AM

NrT are bright and can be tinny. (Reports the wife and myself) I use them for 2 channel sacd music only.
No room corection.

Some songs are unplayable unless you like the ice Pick effect.

I love the originals that do everything right!NrT's are almost 2 different voices in one cabnet.
synergy is off on certain recordings.
Low to high is not smooth, but exagerated highs that screech and linger..
I spent the money, but do not care for the Nrt's yet.

Hi King,

The difference from the original Sierra-1 to the Sierra-1 NrT is noticeable, but subtle. This has been confirmed by several listening sessions at our facility and from feedback from the field. I believe we have now sold out of all of our NrT parts and including yourself, we are running at an incredible 96% satisfaction rate. That is actually much higher than I originally anticipated.

I have stated from the beginning that the upgrade is not going to be for everyone. Having said that, from your posts it is almost as if you are describing a completely different loudspeaker from the Sierra-1, of which the NrT is certainly not. Yes, there is definitely greater high frequency extension and about 2dB more energy in the 3kHz range (which flattens out a dip in the response of the standard Sierra-1) but these changes will not be nearly as dramatic as what you are describing here.

I should also mention that the new tweeter is capable of far greater dynamic reproduction due to the now 100% underhung voice coil. At loud listening levels and dynamic peaks, this tweeter will reproduce them while many other tweeters will exhibit compression due to windings of the voice coil coming out of the magnetic gap, which will actually soften these dynamic peaks considerably.

However, I am starting to wonder if something is not quite right... Did you do the upgrade yourself or did we do it for you? Please send me a PM with the serial numbers of both speakers so I can check the speaker response curves, both before and after the upgrade.

Also, please don't try and force yourself to like the upgrade. You can most certainly de-upgrade (is that a word?) and go back to the standard Sierra-1 and we would be happy to do this for you.

Either way, I don't know who you are by your forum name and I can't help you unless you contact me... So please, send me an email or PM when it is convenient for you.

Thanks in advance!

King Titus

01-20-11, 07:49 AM

Hi King,

The difference from the original Sierra-1 to the Sierra-1 NrT is noticeable, but subtle. This has been confirmed by several listening sessions at our facility and from feedback from the field. I believe we have now sold out of all of our NrT parts and including yourself, we are running at an incredible 96% satisfaction rate. That is actually much higher than I originally anticipated.

I have stated from the beginning that the upgrade is not going to be for everyone. Having said that, from your posts it is almost as if you are describing a completely different loudspeaker from the Sierra-1, of which the NrT is certainly not. Yes, there is definitely greater high frequency extension and about 2dB more energy in the 3kHz range (which flattens out a dip in the response of the standard Sierra-1) but these changes will not be nearly as dramatic as what you are describing here.

I should also mention that the new tweeter is capable of far greater dynamic reproduction due to the now 100% underhung voice coil. At loud listening levels and dynamic peaks, this tweeter will reproduce them while many other tweeters will exhibit compression due to windings of the voice coil coming out of the magnetic gap, which will actually soften these dynamic peaks considerably.

However, I am starting to wonder if something is not quite right... Did you do the upgrade yourself or did we do it for you? Please send me a PM with the serial numbers of both speakers so I can check the speaker response curves, both before and after the upgrade.

Also, please don't try and force yourself to like the upgrade. You can most certainly de-upgrade (is that a word?) and go back to the standard Sierra-1 and we would be happy to do this for you.

Either way, I don't know who you are by your forum name and I can't help you unless you contact me... So please, send me an email or PM when it is convenient for you.

Thanks in advance!

No, you did the work and they are fine.
Just not for everyone as you have always said.
They play the Sax on Take 5 great!
They do a lot of things great. But lose me on certain notes instruments. (Mainly Cymbals)
I am keeping them, as I have the originals and its a new sound that I hope to get use to completely.
Its not the room.
(Sound like 3db to 6db plus more energy from a neophytes ear) Cymbals take over every song where they are played steady and out front.(Volume loud)
I will send the serial numbers in for the double check.

krs

01-20-11, 10:22 AM

David's working early today. :)

Dave, lest there be any confusion because of the timing of King Titus's posts and my intended return of Sierra's, I'm the returnee.

I should say that I fault my own judgement and do not fault the speakers at all. As 2 way speakers of their size they really are magnificent. I AM surprised at the sensitivity of my old ears to very high pitch sounds though I guess I should have known as I once divorced a woman who could shriek like a harpy until I couldn't take any more at any cost. It seems true that time smooths out even the harshest life events, and lets you forget.

It's only my intended use that has brought me to decide that I need larger, hopefully 3-way, speakers to allow for a full range sound down here. This room is all workbenches, tools, shelves, and an old desk. I've even got an 8 meter air pistol range setup in this 35'x16' room. Not a great place for critical listening - more of a Cerwin-Vega kind of place. Do you know what I mean?

I thought that if I bought the best small speakers I could find they'd compensate for a lack of subwoofer or room treatment and I was wrong.

Considering the continual interest in vintage loudspeakers and some of the activities on the do-it-yourself speaker forum in this site I'd think that some enterprising and skillful speaker-maker might see a market for new technology but old-fashioned three-way bookshelf speakers of the sort once built by AR, JBL, CV, and others. ........ that's not too obvious a hint, is it?:

TORO3

01-21-11, 11:23 PM

After all the great reviews, here and on other forums, I decided to shoot for the Sierras. They get here on Monday and will be paired with a Conrad Johnson MF, Parasound P3, and Sunfire HRS8.

Prior to the Sierras I had a pair of Polk RTi4s, and then the Sunfire CRM2s. Last night I was able to sleep, but from reading this thread this evening...it might be a long night from all the great things I've been reading.

I'm gonna be realistic and neutral when I set them up next week, but I'm sure I'll be happy.

Great thread you guys got going on here!

jaeelarr

01-23-11, 04:55 PM

SO, can you actually purchase the Sierra-1 with the NrT already installed? I didn't get a clear answer when I asked someone at Ascend.

merrymaid520

01-23-11, 05:41 PM

SO, can you actually purchase the Sierra-1 with the NrT already installed? I didn't get a clear answer when I asked someone at Ascend.

Yes they can be bought with the Nrt from ascend but I believe dave posted recently that the Nrt parts are sold out for a bit.

kma100

01-23-11, 05:42 PM

Yes you can.

Ron Alcasid

01-23-11, 06:05 PM

SO, can you actually purchase the Sierra-1 with the NrT already installed? I didn't get a clear answer when I asked someone at Ascend.

That's what I did but there isn't a way to do it when you order them from the website. I had to e-mail Dave with my order number and ask for the upgrade.

TORO3

02-02-11, 10:48 PM

I've been able to spend a little time (2 weeks or so) with these speakers and I've come to love them.

If I were to go into a review, I'd be regurgitating what's already been said -- they're simply fantastic, especially for the price.

Perhaps the one thing I enjoy most about this speaker is its ability to play for hours without any fatigue.

Nice job Ascend, thoroughly impressed!

csgamer

02-14-11, 10:11 AM

Anybody know why the specs for the in-room sensitivity on the sierra-1 only gets a 0.5db bump from anechoic and the cmt-340se/cbm-170se/htm-200 gets a 2db bump??

cschang

02-14-11, 11:55 AM

Ascend

02-15-11, 02:21 AM

Anybody know why the specs for the in-room sensitivity on the sierra-1 only gets a 0.5db bump from anechoic and the cmt-340se/cbm-170se/htm-200 gets a 2db bump??

I am betting it is a typo. Hopefully Dave will be around to shed some light on it, if not, try sending Ascend an email.

csgamer, I will have to double check this to be sure. There are two possible reasons off the top of my head...

I believe we tested in-room sensitivity with the Sierra-1 at the recommended 18" distance from the rear wall compared to the recommended 6" - 12" distance for the 200SE/170SE and 340SE. This would account for less bass reinforcement. Another possibility is that the Sierra-1 is more directional than our other products due to the overall design and waveguided tweeter (which translates to less overall room gain.)

Regardless, any loudspeaker's sensitivity is going to vary considerably depending on the specific room and placement. Our in-room sensitivity spec should really be considered as the "minimum expected in-room sensitivity".

Hope this makes some sense and I will double check the numbers again.