The Audiovector QR3 acoustic systems feature a 2.5-band design. Among the two bass drivers, the lower driver is filtered at 800 Hz, while the upper driver operates until it merges with the tweeter at 3000 Hz. This configuration allows both drivers to function in parallel within the low-frequency range, which carries the most energy, while only one driver handles the more nuanced midrange frequencies. The 15-centimeter cones are constructed with a sandwich design, incorporating two thin aluminum layers and a central layer of porous polymer. This, combined with a concave hemispherical shape, results in a highly rigid structure capable of operating in piston mode even at elevated signal amplitudes. Low distortion levels are achieved through a dual magnetic system that maintains a consistent field in the voice coil’s movement area, along with robust suspensions.
The Audiovector QR3 acoustic systems feature AMT Gold Leaf tweeters, which are Hale emitters capable of functioning at frequencies up to 150 kHz. AMT, or Air Motion Transformer, refers to a technology that converts air movement into sound. While the term could apply to various types of emitters, it is particularly fitting for AMT, as it generates sound waves by compressing and expanding a thin fluoroplastic ribbon coated with aluminum, resembling an accordion. This ribbon weighs only 15 to 20 mg and has a radiation area comparable to that of an 8-inch driver. The folding mechanism of the ribbon excites the surrounding air five times more rapidly than a traditional ribbon emitter diaphragm, allowing for optimal signal front transmission. For listeners, the natural attack of sound is significantly more critical than ultrasonic frequencies, which are absent from CDs. Additionally, Hale emitters provide a broad directivity pattern across their entire frequency range, extending to the upper limits.
However, it is important to recognize that no design is without its flaws, and the AMT technology has a notable limitation: it tends to accentuate sibilant sounds. When recordings highlight hissing and whistling, the tweeter can amplify these effects. To mitigate this issue, Audiovector’s engineers have implemented a solution inspired by sound recording professionals: they have integrated an S-Stop filter in front of the tweeter. This filter consists of a fine yet dense gold-plated mesh that selectively absorbs certain frequencies. While the tweeter’s upper frequency limit is reduced from 150 kHz to 45 kHz, this range remains sufficient for all audio formats. The thick flange, featuring the Audiovector logo, is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum and anodized to resemble titanium.
The phase inverter port is designed as a narrow slit located at the bottom, allowing air to flow into the space between the cabinet and the lower platform. This design optimizes the system’s quality factor (Q), leading to its designation as a Q-port. The crossover filters in the QR3, consistent with all Audiovector products, are designed for simplicity, minimizing losses and phase shifts. Consequently, the design does not accommodate separate band connections, featuring only two input terminals. The systems are offered in a black lacquer finish, dark walnut veneer, and a matte white option. The grilles are magnetically attached, and the overall craftsmanship and finish are of exceptional quality. The stated sensitivity of these systems is 90 dB.
Discussing the lightness and transparency of the upper frequency range may seem unnecessary, as this is a typical characteristic of all planar emitters. However, AMT impresses with the remarkable authenticity of its cymbal sounds. The metallic quality is palpable, and each recording showcases variations in timbre and responsiveness to impact. Even gentle stick touches produce a rich soundscape filled with harmonics that gradually dissipate into the environment. This highlights my earlier point that response speed is more crucial for our auditory perception than ultrasound, despite their interconnection. The bass is robust and profound, with a pair of drivers effectively energizing a substantial space. The impact is sharp and forceful, with a noticeable infra-low component. Each note emerges with intensity, and placing your hand near the lower cabinet reveals sharp bursts of air. There are no discernible overtones, and the overall dynamics exceed expectations.
Thanks to its design, the QR3 adeptly handles a wide range of musical genres, from symphonic classics to hip-hop and progressive metal. In a living space with soft furnishings, high frequencies may be slightly subdued; in such cases, angling the speakers inward can help restore the high-frequency spectrum, even if it results in a narrower soundstage. This acoustic system certainly invites some experimentation.
Audiovector QR3 Specifications
- Configuration: 3 emitters, 2.5 bands
- Acoustic design: bass reflex
- Frequency range: 30 – 45000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 90 dB (2.83 V / 1 m)
- Nominal / minimum impedance: 8 / 4 Ohm
- Band crossover frequencies: 800, 3000 Hz
- Input power (max): 200 W
- Finish: black lacquer, dark walnut, white matte
- Dimensions with spikes: 190 x 942 x 232 mm
- Weight 1 pc.: 15.7 kg
