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PSB Image series
May 20, 2002
As a home theater consultants we are well acquainted with
PSB speakers . In one of our demonstration rooms, we have
a" Stratus Series" home theater system, that we believe
competes with the best speaker systems available.
As independent consultants we are not bound by brand
loyalties. Retailers are limited to recommending the
products they carry. We are simply searching for the best
performing products in their price range regardless of
brand name. It is with this principal in mind that speakers
from the PSB line are often our recommended choice.
The new PSB Image series of speakers has raised the bar in
the performance vs. cost ratio to a new level. The Image
series are based on a modular design, utilizing four basic
modules (1" tweeter, 5 ΒΌ or 6 1/2" mid range/woofer). There
are ten models in the series, ranging from book shelf
models (1B, 2B and 3LR) to floor standing models (4T, 5T,
6T ) and the flagship 7PT which utilizes a built in powered
sub woofer.
Sonically the Image series reflect similar qualities:
dynamic, open and detailed sound with a good tonal balance.
Reviews of the Image series have been universally positive
and for good reason. Their performance when compared to
speakers several times their price, is impressive. (See PSB
web site: www.psbspeakers.com for review summaries). These
qualities make them a particularly good choice for home
theater.
The center channel is the most critical speaker in the home
theater setup, as upwards of 80% of the recorded soundtrack
will be routed through this speaker. Dialogue must not only
be clear and crisp, but be able to play loud and deep. We
will expand on the importance of the center channel speaker
in the next article,"Building a Home Theater in Stages".
For now, we will turn our attention to the 9C and 8C center
channel models in the Image series. Our personal preference
is the 9C as it provides the anchor for a superb home
theater setup. The 9C provides all of the requirements for
a center channel with outstanding power handling
capabilities and great frequency response. It is dynamic,
and can convey all the excitement of action filled
soundtracks and the subleties of a whispered conversation.
If space or room size is a consideration, the 8C will
fulfill the objectives of the center channel admirably, but
with marginally less power handling capabilities and
frequency response.
The Image Series provides several choices for left and
right channels,but a word of advice. If you are trying to
cut costs by utilizing a bookshelf speaker as opposed to a
full range floor standing model,consider this: bookshelf
speakers require stands and they are not inexpensive. It is
better to apply that money to a full range floor standing
model, giving you better dynamics and bass performance. If
a sub woofer(the Sub Sonic 6 in Image Series) is
impractical or too expensive you can turn the LFE channel
on your receiver or processor off, and the low frequency
information will be re-routed to the other speakers. You
will be pleasantly surprised at the result. If a sub is
never going to be on the list for the future, the 9C and a
minimum of the 4T's are the best option for the front three
channels.(Obviously the higher you range5T,6T 7PT you will
increase the low frequency output of your system operating
without a sub).
Rear channels can be handled by the 10S, 1B or 2B from the
Image series. The 10S is my personal choice as it provides
a wonderful balance between direct radiating speakers and
bipolar diffusion of sound. They operate most effectively
on the side walls, slightly behind the listener and about 5
feet off the floor. The 10S 's are a lot more expensive
than the 1B or 2B's howevr the latter will work fine as a
rear, direct radiating sound source. The only caveat I
would apply to the use of the 1B's or 2B's is their
placement; too close to the listener and rear channel
effect can be overpowering. If you choose the 1B or 2B's be
prepared to experiment with speaker placement if possible.
The speakers in the Image series have a relatively high
sensitivity rating (91db to 93db). This means that they can
be powered with moderate power supplies. A good quality
receiver would be appropriate although separates will
provide a higher level of performance. My experience
indicates that the majority of DVD sound tracks can be
handled by a good quality receiver.
In the past people generally equated great home theater
performance with big budgets. The PSB Image series has
changed this. Superb design and cost effective production
have resulted in outstanding performance at an affordable
price that was unheard of just a few years ago. If you have
been tempted to explore the realm of home theater but have
been discouraged by its potential cost, fear no longer.
Roscommon Consulting
roscommon@shaw.ca
17May 2002
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