The world of high-end audio is a fascinating one, filled with intricate details and passionate enthusiasts. And when a company like Acoustic Energy releases an updated version of its flagship product, it's a big deal. The AE Active, an upgraded version of the AE1 Active, is a testament to the company's commitment to innovation and quality. But what does this update really mean for audiophiles and music lovers? Let's take a closer look.
A Sixth-Generation Driver
One of the most notable changes in the AE Active is the mid-bass driver. It's a sixth-generation 5" ceramic hard-anodised spun aluminium pure-piston driver, which is quite the mouthful. But what does this mean for the sound? Well, in my opinion, it's a big deal. The construction of this driver eliminates cone flex and avoids the break-up nodes common to paper and plastic designs. This means a more accurate and detailed sound, which is a huge plus for audiophiles. Personally, I think this is a significant improvement over the original AE1 Active, and it's a testament to Acoustic Energy's commitment to sound quality.
Improved Cabinet and Crossover
The cabinet of the AE Active has also been subtly reshaped and fitted with a silicone-finished driver trim. This not only improves the aesthetics but also enhances the sound. Additionally, the crossover point has been adjusted to 3.1kHz (2nd order), with a quoted bandwidth of 42Hz to 28kHz. This means a more balanced and accurate sound across the entire frequency range, which is a huge plus for music lovers.
Amplification and Connectivity
Each driver in the AE Active gets its own dedicated 50-watt Class A/B amplifier, which is fed by a linear power supply. The signal path remains fully analogue throughout, with no DSP or digital processing. This means a more natural and organic sound, which is a huge plus for audiophiles. Furthermore, the power amplifiers have been refined for greater dynamic capability, and the analogue crossover filters have been reworked to reduce phase loss. This means a more accurate and detailed sound, which is a huge plus for music lovers.
A Step Back and Think About It
If you take a step back and think about it, the AE Active is a significant update to the original AE1 Active. It's a testament to Acoustic Energy's commitment to innovation and quality, and it's a huge plus for audiophiles and music lovers. But what does this really suggest? Well, in my opinion, it suggests that the company is listening to its customers and making improvements where it matters most. It also suggests that the company is committed to pushing the boundaries of high-end audio, and that's a good thing for everyone involved.
Broader Implications
The AE Active also raises a deeper question: what does it mean for the future of high-end audio? Well, in my opinion, it means that the company is committed to innovation and quality, and that's a good thing for the industry as a whole. It also means that audiophiles and music lovers have more options than ever before, and that's a good thing for everyone involved. The AE Active is a significant update to the original AE1 Active, and it's a testament to the company's commitment to innovation and quality.
Takeaway
In conclusion, the AE Active is a significant update to the original AE1 Active, and it's a testament to Acoustic Energy's commitment to innovation and quality. It's a huge plus for audiophiles and music lovers, and it's a good thing for the industry as a whole. So, if you're in the market for a high-end audio system, the AE Active is definitely worth considering. Personally, I think it's a great step forward for the company and a fantastic option for anyone looking for a high-quality audio experience.
