Dave Boyd
- Sunday, February 10, 2013
Price/Performance Breakthrough
Mosaic's ATF (Advanced Thin Film) drivers deliver near-electrostatic sound quality at lower cost and from smaller panels. Indeed, we've never before heard the kind of pinpoint yet three-dimensional stereo imaging they produce from anything other than our electrostats. Combining these extraordinary drivers with the award-winning Clarity's cabinet technology, an 8-inch aluminum-cone woofer, and a high-performance Vojtko crossover yields a great-sounding, stylish loudspeaker at a very affordable price.
Price when discontinued:
$1,795.00
|
Frequency Response |
46–20,000 Hz ±3dB |
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Recommended Amplifier Power |
20‒350 watts per channel |
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Sensitivity |
90 dB/2.83 volts/meter |
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Impedance |
5 Ohms. Compatible with 4, 6, or 8 Ohm rated amplifiers. |
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Crossover Frequency |
450, 3000 Hz |
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High Frequency Transducer |
1.5" × 2.25" (3.8 × 5.7 cm) ATF™ Transducer |
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Mid Frequency Transducer |
1.5" × 6" (3.8 × 15.2 cm) ATF™ Transducer |
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Low Frequency Transducer |
8" (20.3cm) high excursion, high rigidity aluminum cone with extended throw drive assembly, non-resonance asymmetrical chamber format; bass reflex |
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Components |
Air core coils, metal film and low dissipation electrolytic capacitors |
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Inputs |
Custom 5-way binding posts |
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Weight |
30 lbs. (13.6 kg) |
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Dimensions |
40" × 9.44" × 11.69" |
Can't do much better for the money
If you're looking for the perfect middle ground between the advantages of an electrostatic and a box speaker, then look no further. Mosaics are great dipole thin-film speakers that have extremely ample bass without requiring higher end amps that would be required for an ESL application. In addition, while proper placement is still required to realize the full benefit, they are not nearly as particular as ESLs.
I have 4 Mosaics + a Fresco center channel + a Dynamo sub in a large, open multi-purpose room that is less than ideal for home theater or for critical listening. All powered by a single capable consumer AV receiver/amp headend. Yet, this seems to be exactly the strength of the Mosaic. There is certainly an element of personal taste involved, but the dipole design provides incredible depth from just two speakers. For rock and pop music, they are simply good (possibly even a bit harsh for some). But flip over to classical or acoustic, or anything with strings, piano, or vocals, and these speakers become magical. Warning: You may be ruined for traditional box speakers.
When switched to 5.1, the speakers blend well and the result is that you never even think about the speakers. Getting everything positioned can be a challenge, but again, less so than with pure ESLs. Given that the room is large, these speakers do a great job filling it and the result is good throughout the space.
This kind of versatility is hard to find. The price is a little steeper than some simple box speakers, but less than higher end B&W or any ESLs, particularly when considering the total system price. To even be able to compete with the likes of these is impressive.
My only remaining challenge is getting the bass just right (at times it can be overwhelming), but that's not the fault of the Mosaics so much as trying to deal with the hard surfaces, resonances, and other typical challenges. It does speak to the dynamic ability of these speakers.
I realize at this time my setup is completely retired from ML's product line, but if you can find these gently used and give them a try in your home, you may just love it!
They were a steal when I bought them new!!
I love these speakers!! With the right amp and speaker cables, they sing like you would not believe. They are clear, crisp, and textured. Also at 5 ohms they are not difficult to drive.The soundstage is Amazing too. Try them.