Two reviews of the 2's, specifically compared with my current speaks, the Definition Pros:
http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue33/zu_definitons.htmhttp://www.zuaudio.blogspot.com/I basically wound up with these speakers because I wanted full SET compatibility, the "single driver" sound, but big-time bass output too. I have electronica and hip hop in the collection and if the speaks don't have big-time throwdown potential, they won't work for me long term. These wrap all those goals into 1 square foot and look pretty darn modest, size-wise.
The new version promises a new filter network for the supertweeter which kicks in at 12 khz and a completely reworked cabinet. The new cab is now rigid plywood with lots of internal bracing and has two different chambers for the 4 - 10" sub drivers per side. The old version had a subenclosure for the main array, with the remainder of the volume committed to the sub drivers. Now, there are three separate air-spaces and the subwoofer enclosures are something like a 3:1 ratio.
This is to "tune" the bass output to different reaches, similar to what DeVore is doing with "The Nines" and their two separate reflex ports. I heard the smaller chamber might be tuned as high as 100 hz down to 50 and the larger goes from 65 hz down to 16 or so. This last part wasn't from Zu, so it may be incorrect.
I hope it is true though - my biggest complaint about them has been that the 40 hz transition between the mains and subs is too low. I currently use an in-line filter and the sub EQ to get the XO point to around 70 hz which works much better for me. I'm excited to check this feature out.
The other main highlight is a fusion of the 1.5 and Pro - there are bass amps built in that can drive the subs off the main speaker leads like the 1.5, or there are separate terminals for the mains and subs if the user wants to provide their own amp and EQ. Since I already have the amp and EQ I'll try it both ways and go with whatever works better. I hope the internal amp is perfect, getting the Crown and EQ out of my rack would be great.
Check out the photos of the rear panel - there's a lot of junk going on. There are three sets of speaker posts, an attenuator knob for the bass array, and an IEC input to power the onboard bass amp.
Zu claims some day soon there will be some computer/internet connection functionality that will allow the user to e-mail their room response to them, it can be tweaked at the factory, and sent back to tune the room. I have no idea how this will work but I'll be happy to try it when I get a chance.
OK, that's it. Sorry for rambling but I'm excited, canya tell?
