In the realm of audio equipment, full-range speakers hold a special place. They represent a purist approach to sound reproduction, aiming to cover the entire audible frequency spectrum with a single driver or a cleverly designed two-way system within a single enclosure. This contrasts with the more common multi-driver setups that use separate woofers, tweeters, and mid-range drivers. The Tannoy Legacy Cheviot stands out as a prime example of a modern full-range speaker, blending classic design elements with contemporary technology. This article explores what makes full-range speakers unique, focusing on the Cheviot’s innovative Dual Concentric driver technology and its impact on sound quality. We’ll also cover practical aspects like speaker placement, room acoustics, and amplifier matching to help you achieve the best possible sound from your full-range system. Join us as we uncover the intricacies of these fascinating speakers and discover why they’re a compelling choice for both music enthusiasts and home theater aficionados.
Key Takeaways
- Single-driver systems create a natural sound: Full-range speakers, often using just one driver, aim for a cohesive, integrated sound by avoiding the complexities of crossovers found in multi-driver setups.
- Tannoy Cheviot speakers offer a compelling blend of performance and design: With their Dual Concentric driver technology, these speakers deliver detailed sound and often eliminate the need for a separate subwoofer, all within a beautifully crafted cabinet.
- A well-matched amplifier enhances speaker performance: Pairing the right amplifier with your speakers is essential for optimal sound. Consider your speakers’ sensitivity and your room’s acoustics when choosing an amplifier.
What Are Full-Range Speakers?
Full-range speakers aim to reproduce the entire audible frequency range with a single driver, or sometimes two, in a single enclosure. Unlike systems with separate woofers for low frequencies, tweeters for highs, and mid-range drivers for the frequencies in between, a full-range speaker handles it all. This approach can offer a coherent and natural sound that some listeners find appealing. Think of it like a solo musician versus an orchestra; both create beautiful music, but the solo performance has a unique intimacy.
Defining Full-Range Speakers
The Tannoy Legacy Cheviot is a classic example of a two-way full-range speaker. This speaker uses a 12-inch Dual Concentric driver, a signature Tannoy design. The “two-way” designation might seem confusing, but here it refers to the two parts of the single Dual Concentric driver unit itself—not separate drivers like a typical two-way speaker system. The 12-inch Dual Concentric driver in the Tannoy Cheviots is considered a sweet spot for price, performance, and size. This single driver handles both lower and higher frequencies, aiming for a seamless blend across the audible spectrum.
Advantages of Full-Range Systems
One draw of full-range speakers is their potential for natural, cohesive sound. Because one driver handles the entire frequency range, there’s no need for a crossover, the electronic component that divides the audio signal between different drivers in multi-driver setups. Crossovers, while necessary in those setups, can sometimes introduce phase issues or other sonic artifacts. Full-range speakers bypass this potential problem, striving for a purer, more integrated sound.
While often preferred for music, full-range speakers can also perform well in home theater systems. The Tannoy Legacy Cheviot, for example, can deliver a satisfying home theater experience, often without a separate subwoofer. This simplifies setup and creates a cleaner aesthetic. These modern versions of classic Tannoy designs incorporate decades of speaker technology advancements while staying true to the original design philosophy, as noted in this Audio Appraisal review. Beyond performance, the Cheviot’s construction and proportions contribute to its impressive presence, despite its manageable size.
Tannoy Cheviot: A Deep Dive
Key Cheviot Features
The Tannoy Cheviot speakers make a statement. Not because of their size (they stand just under three feet tall), but because of their thoughtful proportions and solid construction. As a modern take on a classic Tannoy design, the Cheviot blends vintage appeal with contemporary speaker technology. This careful balance results in a speaker that honors Tannoy’s legacy while offering current audiophile-grade performance. The Cheviot, along with the Eaton and Arden, represent a revival of classic models, incorporating advancements in speaker design developed over the past four decades. This dedication to quality and innovation is apparent in every aspect of the Cheviot, from its distinctive Dual Concentric driver to its meticulously crafted cabinet.
How Cheviot Delivers Bass Without a Subwoofer
While ideal for music, the Cheviot speakers also perform well in a home theater setup, often eliminating the need for a separate subwoofer. How do they achieve this full-range sound? The magic lies in the 12″ HPD (High Performance Dual) 315 driver, a key component of Tannoy’s Dual Concentric technology. This driver design allows the Cheviot to produce surprisingly deep and controlled bass. Reviews suggest giving the Cheviots some breathing room, especially in medium-sized rooms, to fully appreciate their bass response. Placement is key, and a little experimentation can significantly improve performance. The combination of the Dual Concentric driver and the carefully engineered cabinet design allows the Cheviot to deliver a rich, full-bodied sound that often makes a dedicated subwoofer unnecessary, making it a compelling choice for both music enthusiasts and home theater fans.
Exploring Dual Concentric Driver Technology
The Tannoy Cheviot’s claim to fame? Its Dual Concentric driver technology. This unique design sets it apart and contributes significantly to its full-range sound. Let’s explore what makes this technology work.
The Science Behind Point-Source Sound
Traditional speakers often use separate drivers for different frequencies—a tweeter for highs, a woofer for lows, and sometimes a mid-range driver. This can create phase issues where sound waves from different drivers don’t align perfectly, resulting in a slightly muddled or inaccurate sound. The Tannoy Cheviot’s Dual Concentric driver addresses this by placing the tweeter inside the woofer cone. This point-source design means all frequencies originate from a single point, creating a more coherent and time-aligned wavefront. Think of it like a pebble dropped in water—the ripples expand outwards in perfect circles. This unified wavefront minimizes interference and produces a cleaner, more natural sound, much like the Tannoy Legacy Cheviot.
Benefits for Sound Staging and Imaging
This point-source design has a significant impact on sound staging and imaging. With both high and low frequencies emanating from the same point, the Cheviot creates a remarkably accurate and focused soundscape. Sound staging refers to the perceived width, depth, and height of the audio presentation—essentially how instruments and vocals are laid out in front of you. The Cheviot excels here, offering a wide and immersive soundstage that makes you feel like you’re right there with the musicians. Imaging, on the other hand, is the precision with which individual sounds are placed within that soundstage. The Cheviot’s coherent wavefront allows for pinpoint accuracy in instrument placement, giving you a clear sense of where each sound is coming from. This precision adds a layer of realism and detail that’s often missing with traditional speaker designs, as noted in this Tannoy Cheviot review. You’ll hear nuances and subtle details in your music that you may have never noticed before.
Cabinet Design and Sound Impact
Why Quality Construction Matters
A speaker’s cabinet isn’t just a box; it’s a critical component that significantly influences sound quality. Think of it like the foundation of a house—a shaky foundation leads to problems throughout the structure. Similarly, a poorly constructed cabinet can negatively affect the speaker’s performance. Resonances and vibrations within the cabinet can muddy the sound, particularly in the bass frequencies. A well-built cabinet minimizes these unwanted vibrations, allowing the drivers to perform optimally and produce a cleaner, more accurate sound. The Tannoy Cheviot, for example, is praised for its exceptional craftsmanship, featuring a beautiful oak veneer. This attention to detail not only enhances the speaker’s aesthetic appeal but also contributes to its sonic performance. High-quality construction like this makes speakers like the Cheviot a worthwhile investment for those seeking lasting quality.
Bass Reflex Design in Full-Range Speakers
Many full-range speakers, including the Tannoy Cheviot, use a bass reflex design. This design incorporates a port or vent in the cabinet, allowing air to move in and out. This isn’t just a random hole; it’s carefully engineered to work in conjunction with the speaker driver and cabinet volume. The bass reflex design enhances the speaker’s low-frequency output, giving you deeper, more powerful bass. The Cheviot, with its 12″ HPD315 driver and thoughtfully designed bass reflex system, offers a compelling example of how this technology can deliver impressive bass performance in a reasonably sized speaker. This means you can enjoy a rich and full sound, even without a separate subwoofer, making it a great option for both music listening and home theater setups.
Room Acoustics & Speaker Performance
How Room Size Affects Bass
Room size plays a significant role in how your speakers, especially full-range models like the Tannoy Cheviot, produce bass. The Cheviots, particularly the floor-standing versions, are designed to perform well in medium-sized rooms. In a space that’s too small, the bass can become boomy and overwhelming. Conversely, a room that’s too large might leave the sound feeling thin, lacking low-end impact. An Audio Appraisal review highlights this room size consideration, explaining how the Cheviots find a sweet spot in spaces that aren’t too big or too small. The impressive part? These speakers deliver satisfying bass without needing a separate subwoofer, a point mentioned in a Son-Vidéo.com review. This makes them a great choice for those who prefer a clean setup without extra equipment. The Cheviot’s quality construction contributes to this impressive bass performance, creating a rich, full sound.
Optimize Speaker Placement for Better Sound
Getting the best sound from your Tannoy Cheviots isn’t just about the speakers themselves; it’s also about their placement. Positioning can dramatically affect your listening experience. Ideally, place the speakers so the drivers are at ear level when you’re seated. A good starting point, as suggested in a StereoNet discussion, is to have the center of each speaker angled slightly inward, so their axes cross a bit in front of your usual listening spot. This helps create a focused soundstage. While the Cheviots generally have a neutral sound (sometimes described as a “flat presentation”), you can adjust their placement to account for the acoustics of your room. The Audio Appraisal review notes this flexibility, explaining that you can fine-tune the setup for a more vibrant sound if your room isn’t perfectly designed for audio. Experiment with different positions to find what sounds best in your listening space.
Amplification and Sensitivity Explained
Getting great sound from your speakers isn’t just about the speakers themselves—it’s also about the amplifier powering them. This section explores how amplification and speaker sensitivity work together. Think of it like a car: the engine (amplifier) needs to be the right size for the car (speaker) to perform well. A small engine in a large truck won’t provide enough power, just like a huge engine in a compact car is overkill. Similarly, pairing the wrong amplifier with your speakers can result in underwhelming sound or even damage your equipment.
Understanding Speaker Efficiency
Speaker efficiency, often called sensitivity, tells you how loud a speaker plays with a given amount of power. It’s measured in decibels (dB) with 1 watt of power, measured one meter away. A higher sensitivity rating means the speaker produces more sound with less power. For example, a speaker with a sensitivity of 90 dB will play louder with 1 watt than a speaker with 87 dB sensitivity. This doesn’t automatically mean higher sensitivity is better—it depends on your setup and listening habits. If you have a powerful amplifier, a lower sensitivity speaker might work well. If you have a lower-powered amp, you’ll likely want higher sensitivity speakers for decent volume. The Tannoy Legacy Cheviot, for example, performs best with some space around them, especially the floor-standing models, which are well-suited for medium-sized rooms. Their sensitivity and placement impacts their overall performance. Even high-quality speakers can have drawbacks. For instance, some vintage Tannoy speakers, particularly those with 12″ and 15″ HPD drivers, are known for foam surrounds that can deteriorate over time.
Matching Speakers and Amplifiers
Matching your speakers and amplifier is crucial for the best sound. A common misconception is that you need an extremely powerful amplifier. While sufficient power is important, a good match is more critical than sheer wattage. Consider the Tannoy Legacy Cheviot. These speakers, known for their warm sound, don’t demand exceptionally powerful amplification but sound noticeably better with a quality amp like the McIntosh MA252. This shows the importance of synergy between components. Experimenting with different amplifier and speaker pairings can significantly change the sound. One listener, while enjoying the Cheviot’s flat presentation, found they could adjust the speakers to suit their room better, demonstrating how speaker placement and room acoustics matter. The best amplifier for your speakers depends on factors like speaker sensitivity, room size, and your preferred listening volume. Research and, if possible, test different combinations to find what sounds best to you.
Evaluating Sound Quality
When choosing speakers, understanding sound quality goes beyond just loudness. It’s about how accurately and pleasantly the speakers reproduce the original audio. This involves aspects like tonal balance, midrange clarity, and the overall naturalness of the sound. Let’s break down what that means, especially for the Tannoy Cheviot.
Assessing Tonal Balance and Midrange
Tonal balance refers to the relative emphasis of different frequencies—bass, midrange, and treble. A well-balanced speaker presents these frequencies harmoniously, without one range overpowering the others. The midrange is especially crucial, as it’s where most instruments and vocals reside. A clear, detailed midrange makes music sound realistic and engaging. One review describes the Tannoy Legacy Cheviot as having a “warm and generous sound restitution,” suggesting a pleasant tonal balance. This points to a full and satisfying listening experience. Another review highlights how Tannoy blended classic design with modern speaker technology in the Cheviot, likely contributing to its balanced sound.
The Importance of Natural Sound
Beyond specs, the true test of a speaker is how natural it sounds. Does the music sound like a live performance, or artificial and processed? The Tannoy Cheviot, focusing on accurate sound reproduction, aims for a natural listening experience. This review notes the Cheviot’s impressive build quality, suggesting its construction contributes to its sonic performance. Another review advises on speaker placement, recommending giving the Cheviots “breathing space,” especially in medium-sized rooms, for the most natural sound. This reinforces how speaker placement and room acoustics affect how natural a speaker sounds in your space. Consider your listening room and how the Cheviots might interact with it to create the best soundscape.
Tannoy Cheviot vs. Klipsch Heresy III
This section compares two popular speaker models: the Tannoy Legacy Cheviot and the Klipsch Heresy III. Both are well-regarded but have different strengths. Knowing these differences helps you choose the right speaker for your needs.
Sound Signature Differences
The Tannoy Cheviot and Klipsch Heresy III have distinct personalities. The Cheviot is known for its warm, generous sound. Reviewers describe the listening experience as smooth, relaxing, and full of emotion. One review called the Cheviot’s sound “delightful” and “filled with emotion.” This makes them a solid choice for listeners who enjoy a rich, laid-back presentation, especially with genres like jazz or classical music. Check out our beginner’s guide to speaker types for more info on various sound profiles.
The Klipsch Heresy III, on the other hand, is known for its punchy, efficient, and detailed sound. This lively presentation can be exciting, but also divisive. Some appreciate the Heresy III’s clarity and directness, while others find them a bit too bright or forward. Online discussions reveal this split, with some praising the “revealing clarity” and others describing them as “bass-shy” or “shouting.” If you like an energetic sound, especially for rock or electronic music, the Heresy III might be a good fit. Just be aware of their more assertive character.
Bass Performance and Subwoofer Needs
A key difference between these speakers is their bass performance. The Tannoy Cheviot, while designed with music in mind, also works well in home theater systems, often without a subwoofer. This review suggests the Cheviot delivers a “convincing home theater experience without an absolute need for a subwoofer.” This makes them a practical option for those who want a full sound without extra equipment. Our beginner’s guide to subwoofers can help you decide if adding a subwoofer is right for you.
The Klipsch Heresy III, with a frequency response down to 65Hz (source), offers decent bass for its size. However, some listeners find the low end benefits from extra support. Discussions online explore pairing the Heresy III with a subwoofer, with one commenter mentioning the improvement from “adding that extra 1/2 octave to the bottom end.” While the Heresy III works well on its own, a subwoofer might be a good addition if you want deeper bass. It all comes down to your preferences and what you listen to. If you’re setting up a home theater, our beginner’s guide to soundbars might offer some helpful information.
Choosing Your Full-Range Speaker
So, you’re thinking about a full-range system. Excellent choice! But with so many options, how do you pick the right speaker? This section walks you through two crucial considerations: your listening habits and the speaker’s physical characteristics.
Assess Your Listening Preferences and Room
First, think about what kind of music you enjoy and how you typically listen. Do you crave powerful bass for electronic music, or do you prefer a more balanced sound for acoustic genres? The Tannoy Legacy Cheviot is known for its warm, generous sound, making it a great choice for relaxed, emotionally resonant listening. However, if you primarily listen to high-energy music, you might want a speaker with a bit more punch. Check out our beginner’s guide to speaker types for more information on matching speakers to musical genres.
Your room also plays a significant role. Larger rooms generally require more powerful speakers, while smaller rooms can do well with more compact models. The Cheviot is well-suited for medium-sized rooms, needing a little breathing room to perform optimally. Consider your room’s dimensions and acoustics before making a decision. Our guide to subwoofers discusses room acoustics in more detail, which applies to full-range speakers as well.
Evaluate Build and Aesthetics
Beyond sound, consider the speaker’s physical presence. A speaker’s construction and appearance can significantly impact your overall enjoyment. The Tannoy Cheviot, with its stunning oak veneer, is a beautiful object that can enhance any room. Pay attention to materials, finishes, and overall design. Do they complement your existing decor?
Also, consider the speaker’s build quality. A well-constructed speaker not only sounds better but also lasts longer. The Cheviot, drawing on 40 years of Tannoy’s design expertise, offers a blend of classic design and modern engineering. Look for speakers built with quality components and solid construction to ensure long-term performance. You can learn more about construction quality in our guide to studio monitors, which often emphasizes robust build for accurate sound reproduction.
Maximize Your Full-Range Speaker Setup
Fine-Tune Your System
Getting the best sound from your full-range speakers, especially models like the Tannoy Legacy Cheviot, involves more than just plugging them in. Think of it like preparing a delicious meal—the ingredients are important, but the cooking process makes all the difference. One reviewer describes the Cheviot’s sound as “warm and generous…delightful, relaxing, and filled with emotion.” That immersive audio experience comes from careful speaker placement and attention to your room’s acoustics. While the Cheviots aren’t overly demanding about placement, they do need some “breathing space,” especially the floor-standing models. Experiment with positioning to find what sounds best in your listening room. Consider the size of your room, too. Reviews suggest these speakers are well-suited for medium-sized spaces. If your room is particularly large or small, you might need to adjust your expectations or consider different speakers altogether. Don’t be afraid to tweak things—even small changes can make a big difference.
Achieve Long-Term Satisfaction with Full-Range Speakers
The Tannoy Cheviot speakers aren’t just about immediate sonic pleasure; they’re designed for long-term listening enjoyment. These speakers are a modern take on classic Tannoy designs, blending traditional craftsmanship with updated technology. This approach means you get a speaker that respects the sonic qualities of the past while benefiting from decades of advancements in speaker design. Reviewers rave about the Cheviot’s build quality, describing it as “impressive” and highlighting its “high level of craftsmanship.” This attention to detail not only contributes to the speaker’s performance but also ensures it will stand the test of time. Investing in well-made speakers like the Cheviot means you’re not just buying a piece of audio equipment; you’re investing in years of listening pleasure. You’ll appreciate the quality every time you listen.
Related Articles
- Beginner’s Guide To Speaker Types – Supermarketsound.com
- Speakers – Supermarketsound.com
- Beginner’s Guide To Wireless Multi-Room Audio Systems – Supermarketsound.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Do full-range speakers need a subwoofer?
Not always. Full-range speakers aim to cover the entire audible frequency spectrum, so they often deliver satisfying bass on their own. However, adding a subwoofer can enhance the low-end for those who crave truly deep bass, especially in larger rooms or for home theater setups. It depends on the specific speaker, the room, and your personal preferences. The Tannoy Cheviot, for example, often performs well without a subwoofer, but some listeners might still choose to add one for extra oomph.
What’s the difference between a two-way speaker and a full-range speaker?
A standard two-way speaker uses two separate drivers – a tweeter for high frequencies and a woofer for low frequencies. A full-range speaker, while sometimes having two parts to a single driver unit (like the Tannoy Cheviot’s Dual Concentric driver), aims to reproduce the entire frequency range with that single unit. This eliminates the need for a crossover, which can sometimes introduce sonic imperfections.
What’s so special about the Tannoy Dual Concentric driver?
The Dual Concentric driver puts the tweeter inside the woofer cone. This “point-source” design means all frequencies originate from the same location, creating a more coherent and time-aligned sound wave. This can lead to a more natural, realistic soundstage and precise imaging, as opposed to traditional setups where separate drivers can create slight timing discrepancies.
How does cabinet design affect the sound of a full-range speaker?
The cabinet isn’t just a container; it significantly impacts sound quality. A well-constructed cabinet minimizes unwanted resonances and vibrations, allowing the driver to perform at its best. Features like the bass reflex port, found in the Tannoy Cheviot, are carefully engineered to enhance bass response. Poor cabinet design can muddy the sound, especially in the lower frequencies.
How do I choose the right full-range speaker for me?
Consider your listening habits, room size, and aesthetic preferences. What kind of music do you enjoy? How big is your listening space? Do you prefer a warm, laid-back sound, or something more energetic? Also, think about the speaker’s appearance. Does it fit your style? Research different models, read reviews, and if possible, listen to them in person to find the perfect match for your needs and taste.
