This review delves into the DALI RUBIKON 8 floor-standing speakers, a high-end audio offering from Denmark. These speakers boast a unique 2.5-way design incorporating three 6.5-inch woofers, a 1-inch soft dome tweeter, and a 2-inch planar tweeter for a wide, detailed sound dispersion. The intricate crossover network, featuring Mundorf capacitors and air core inductors, and triple porting contribute to the speaker's exceptional performance characteristics. Detailed measurements and listening impressions are provided to assess the RUBIKON 8's capabilities.This in-depth analysis explores the speaker's frequency response, impedance, sensitivity, and soundstage creation. We'll examine its performance in a large listening room, noting the bass response, dynamic range, and overall sonic balance. A comparison with competing high-end speakers from brands like PSB, Wilson Audio, Revel, and Yamaha will help determine the DALI RUBIKON 8's place within the market, considering its $12,000 price point and weighing its strengths against its cost.
Pros And Cons
- Enveloping sound stage with wide dispersion
- Excellent imaging
- Wide dynamic range
- Punchy and dynamic
- Good tonal balance (when positioned correctly)
- Attractive appearance
- Real walnut finish (in walnut model)
- Handles power well
- Good bass response (deep and tight)
- Wide sweet spot
- Expensive ($12,000 a pair)
- On-axis tweeter can sound hot/bright if not positioned correctly per manufacturer's recommendation
- Competes in a crowded market with other good speakers in a similar price range
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DALI RUBIKON 8: Design and Specifications
The DALI RUBIKON 8 is a floor-standing speaker crafted in Denmark, boasting a unique 2.5-way design. This unconventional configuration features three 6.5-inch woofers, each with a specific frequency range, working in conjunction with a 1-inch soft dome tweeter and a 2-inch planar tweeter. This hybrid tweeter setup aims for broad dispersion across all frequencies.
The speaker's crossover network is complex, employing high-quality Mundorf capacitors and air core inductors. Triple porting, positioned directly behind each driver, is designed to minimize latency and mitigate port turbulence. The woofers use a treated wood-paper composite cone with a unique shape to manage cone breakup and extend high-frequency capabilities.
Measurement and Frequency Response
The speaker's measured frequency response extends from approximately 38 Hz to 34 kHz, indicating excellent high-frequency extension. Impedance is a relatively benign 4 ohms, meaning it's compatible with a wide range of amplifiers. Sensitivity is rated around 90dB, which is respectable considering the deep bass extension.
Measurements reveal a smooth, consistent frequency response both on and off-axis. The planar tweeter's contribution provides extended high-frequency detail and a wider soundstage than a traditional dome tweeter would offer. The slightly elevated treble on-axis is mitigated by the wide dispersion, resulting in a more neutral listening experience in a typical setup (where speakers aren't toed-in).
Sound Impressions and Listening Experience
The reviewer's listening experience at Audio Advice showcased the DALI RUBIKON 8's ability to create a spacious, enveloping soundstage. With wide dispersion and high-frequency detail, the speaker delivered a compelling and immersive soundscape, even in a large room without the need for a subwoofer.
The bass response was described as tight and deep, capable of filling a significant listening space. The speaker's dynamic range was praised for its punchiness and ability to handle high volume levels without strain. The reviewer notes that positioning the speakers according to the manufacturer's recommendations (not toed-in) yielded the most balanced and neutral tonal response.
Comparison with Competitors and Conclusion
The DALI RUBIKON 8 competes in a crowded high-end market. The reviewer mentions several competitors, including the PSB Synchrony T800s, Wilson Audio Alexia Series 2, Revel Performa3 F228Be, and the Yamaha NS-2000. All are high-quality speakers known for their exceptional performance.
The DALI RUBIKON 8's strengths lie in its wide dispersion, creating a massive soundstage, excellent imaging despite its wide dispersion, and punchy, dynamic sound. However, the high price point of $12,000 per pair is a significant factor, and potential buyers should consider the competition. While the overall performance is excellent, whether or not it justifies the price depends on individual priorities and budget.
