Signature Series 41-SE as Surrounds and Rear Speakers
As Surrounds
Based on size and performance, we believe the 41-SE is a speaker that is versatile and well-suited for many applications. This is especially true when considering them for surrounds. Most DVD movie soundtracks do not contain much frequency extension down to the lowest octaves of the audio bandwidth in the rear channels . In fact, due to placement constraints in most listening rooms, most users opt for smaller speakers and utilize the bass management of their pre-pros/receivers to reroute the bass content to a dedicated subwoofer. T hus, in this application, typical frequencies produced from the surrounds in movies are more in line with mid-bass and higher. Since the 41SE's frequency response fits right in this range (with the ability to produce 60Hz to 20kHz +/-3dB), they are ideal for the role of surrounds. While installed as surrounds, we conducted our listening tests using the sound tracks from Jurassic Park III, The Lord of the Rings, and Shrek, in addition to Steely Dan's, "Gaucho" in DTS.
The Signature Series 41-SE's were installed in Reference System 2 as the main surrounds, while reverting back to the 1266-LSE for the mains, the 661-LSE for the center, and the 1010-SEP for the sub. Initially, I was concerned that the modified LSE's would outperform the 41SE's. When the listening test started, I found this wasn't the case. While the modified LSE's (with upgraded drivers and crossover) presented finer detail, the 41-SE's were more than able to hold their own as they did a fantastic job of creating the surround ambience of a true movie theater. With these speakers in place, the rears were life-like and believable with sufficient detail.
This was also the case even with music sound tracks. DTS, SACD's and DVD-A sound tracks typically offer full frequency music. Again, although the 41-SE's do not have much frequency extension down to the lowest octaves of human hearing, when crossed over and coupled with a sub, there was sufficient bass response for a seamless blend. What was great about using the 41-SE's for surrounds when listening to full frequency music, was their ability to produce even, uniform, uncolored sound with sufficient detail.
As Rear Surrounds
The final resting place for this pair of 41-SE's was in Reference System 2 as rear surround speakers. With most of the new processors and receivers offering 7.1 surround, Audioholics wanted to do our best to stay current. When considering the 41-SE's for the role of rear surrounds, it seemed almost wasteful when considering how musical they were. But for the serious home theater enthusiast who is seeking speakers that produce audiophile quality, the 41-SE's fit this role exquisitely, especially when coupled with a full RBH Signature Series speaker package.
We believe the need for 7.1 surround is debatable, especially when considering many people's Home Theaters are subjected to tight room constraints. With an updated Reference System 2, Audioholics will be writing articles that include this format. There are an increasing number of DVD soundtracks that offer a matrix sound track, but not always offered in DTS discrete. Fewer DVD soundtracks actually offer a discrete rear surround as 6.1; but there are none that offer two discrete rear surrounds as in a true 7.1 configuration. While the 7.1 effect is not as dramatic as a center channel is to the front speakers, it does warrant consideration for use in Home Theaters installed in larger rooms.
For the role of rear 7.1 surrounds, the 41-SE's fit the bill quite nicely. In the room hosting Reference System 2, the install was challenging given there was no true rear wall to install them. We wanted to minimize drilling into the speakers, especially from the front or sides, but we needed them to point downward due to the location. Adding to the difficulty was their size and 12-lb weight and the fact that they are located directly above the heads of anyone sitting on the main couch. The last thing we want is for them to fall on someone's head, especially mine.
A challenging Installation
To accomplish this installation, I used to two heavy L-Brackets, and one smaller L-Bracket per speaker along with a series of screws in addition to some intuition. The smaller L-Bracket located on the face of the speaker, as seen in the picture, is used to partially support the weight. This bracket was installed on the wall first. I predrilled the back of the speakers to install the two large L-Brackets. I then took the speaker and bracket assembly up on a ladder and used the previously installed smaller L-Bracket to balance the weight of the speaker. While supported by the smaller L-Bracket, I then used a pencil to mark the mounting holes on the wall where the larger L-Brackets would attach. I installed metal screw mollies where these wholes didn't line up to a beam. Once the mounting holes on the wall were ready, I once again, lifted the speaker and supported it on the smaller L-bracket. I then screwed the rear of the larger L-Brackets to the wall in four places. Although the larger L-Brackets alone would probably support the weight, I didn't want to chance them falling. By using the preloading smaller L-Brackets for the weight of the speaker, the larger L-Brackets are now specifically preventing torque, while offering redundancy weight support.
