How long do we think it will be before we see reviews on this new line of speakers? I know they're only available in Japan at the moment. But are there reviewers over there who will provide "early look" reviews for readers in other markets?
I'm not sure why I'm so excited about this line. I already have five of the Studio 590 towers, and a pair of the Studio 530 bookshelf speakers. Mainly, I'm curious about those wall-mountable surrounds, as they could be a good pickup for me. I'd also be curious to hear if the 698 towers would be an upgrade from the 590's, though I wouldn't want to pay full price for them, so I'd be waiting (likely years) for them to go on a big sale.
For one thing, I think I might like the look of them. But the description of the Waveguide makes it sound like they COULD be an upgrade from the 590s. Plus, the 698s are a true 3-way, which could also be a step in the right direction.
It's a bummer they're going less sensitive versus the Studio 5 series. But in this price range, it's not surprising to get speakers that would benefit from external amplification beyond what comes in a receiver.