This in-depth review of the Revel F35 loudspeaker takes a unique approach, prioritizing immediate listening impressions before formal break-in and objective measurements. Unlike many reviews that emphasize the importance of speaker break-in, this analysis offers an unvarnished perspective of the F35's out-of-the-box sound quality, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses. The review then delves into objective measurements to validate the initial subjective findings, providing a comprehensive understanding of the speaker's performance characteristics.This holistic methodology combines subjective listening experiences with hard data, offering a balanced perspective that goes beyond personal preference. We explore the F35's frequency response, analyzing areas such as bass punch, midrange warmth, treble clarity, and potential issues like directivity mismatch. Ultimately, this review assesses the Revel F35's value proposition, comparing it to competitors in its price range and considering its suitability for various audio setups, providing readers with a thorough and informed opinion.
Pros And Cons
- On sale for $450 each (down from $880)
- Good overall response (based on CA2034 data set)
- Good harmonic and multi-tone distortion
- Pretty good burst decay (27dB down)
- Needs a subwoofer for low frequencies
- Slight dip in lower mid-range
- Dip around 2-3kHz
- Peak around 5kHz
- Some sibilance/edginess in the higher treble (4-6kHz)
- Directivity mismatch due to tweeter/mid-range separation (potentially equalizable)
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Addressing the Break-in Period
Many reviewers emphasize the importance of speaker break-in before evaluating sound quality. However, in this review, the speaker was tested without a formal break-in period. The manufacturer provided no break-in recommendations, a common practice for this brand. The initial review aimed to counteract criticisms of not listening before measurement, prioritizing immediate impressions.
This unconventional approach offered a glimpse into the reviewer's process. The speaker was unboxed and evaluated in real-time, providing an unvarnished perspective before formal testing.
Initial Subjective Listening Impressions
The initial listening test revealed some inconsistencies in the speaker's sound profile. The bass response, particularly in the 100-120 Hz range, lacked the expected punch. This was noticed while listening to kick drums. There was also perceived warmth in the midrange, around 300-500 Hz, noticeable in female vocals like Norah Jones's.
Furthermore, the upper midrange showed a deficiency in attack, detail, and clarity. Finally, a slight edginess or sibilance in the treble range, around 4-6 kHz, was noted. These initial impressions served as a baseline for comparison with objective measurements.
Objective Measurements and Analysis
The objective measurements confirmed some of the initial listening impressions. The frequency response showed a dip in the lower midrange and a peak around 5 kHz, aligning with the perceived warmth and treble edginess. However, the bass response, while showing a dip in the 100-120 Hz range, wasn't dramatically different from the surrounding frequencies as initially perceived.
The measurements also revealed a directivity mismatch caused by the tweeter-midrange separation. This could be addressed through equalization. Overall, the harmonic distortion and multi-tone distortion remained acceptable within the speaker's price range.
The horizontal contour plot revealed a 3kHz peak that could benefit from acoustic treatment. However, given the speaker's discounted price, it is likely that most buyers would not add absorption panels for this.
Subjective vs. Objective: The Importance of Both
The review highlights the limitations of relying solely on subjective listening. While personal preference is crucial, objective data provides a valuable context. In this case, the initial subjective impressions were mostly validated by the objective data, but with nuances. Room acoustics significantly influenced the perceived sound, demonstrating the importance of considering both aspects.
This review exemplifies a holistic approach, combining both subjective listening impressions and objective measurements to arrive at a well-rounded conclusion. This methodology allows for a more comprehensive and accurate evaluation of the speaker's performance.
Revel F35: Final Verdict
The Revel F35, especially at its discounted price of approximately $450 each, presents a compelling value proposition. Its four-driver design, including a 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter, a 5.25-inch midrange, and two 5.25-inch mid-bass drivers, delivers impressive performance. The 90dB sensitivity and 6-ohm impedance make it compatible with a range of amplifiers.
Compared to similar floor-standing speakers such as the ELAC DF63, which cost significantly more, the Revel F35 offers exceptional value. While a subwoofer is recommended for full-range reproduction, its midrange and treble response are generally well-balanced, minor adjustments considered. Overall, the Revel F35's strengths outweigh its minor shortcomings.