MCS1, SCS3 and SS2 Measurements and Analysis

We concluded our audition with measurements of the MCS1 and SCS3 speakers.  The results of the measurements are in correlation with our listening audition thereby allowing us to provide subjetive and objective feedback on the THIEL Audio Speaker System.

Measurements & Analysis of Thiel MCS1 Speakers

The MCS 1 had an overall uniform frequency response with a slight de-emphasis (-5dB from 3kHz to 7kHz) and a tad too much emphasis on the top end (+5dB above 13kHz ) with a -3dB roll off around 20kHz. The null at 89Hz is likely due to measurement/room interaction since this was not taken in an anechoic chamber. Off axis response was excellent and did help tame the top end a bit indicating that little to no toe in is preferred for a more flat frequency response. Usable bass energy was present to about 38Hz or so, but we still recommend crossing over these speakers much higher (say 80Hz) to increase system dynamic range and provide better bass integration with the subwoofer.

Notice the 89Hz null is gone at the listening position (3 meters) indicating it was likely do to measurement/room interaction rather than loudspeaker design deficiency.

This measurement was taken with the MCS1s set to full range with no subwoofer. The suckout at 50Hz is again likely a room node issue relative to speaker/listener placement. By crossing these speakers over and optimally placing the sub, much better bass integration and extension was achieved.

Measurements & Analysis of Thiel SCS3 Speakers

The SCS3 had an overall fairly flat response as well (similar to the MCS1) except the tweeter was again set too high (up to +7dB from 12kHz to 18kHz) with excellent extension past 20kHz. Again we see the same 89Hz suckout due to measurement/room interaction. The SCS3 had usable bass extension down to about 44Hz, but we again advise to cross this speaker over much higher to preserve dynamic range, especially since we found this speaker a bit lacking in this regard.