Overview
These are a pair of speakers that will bring great joy to the low power/high efficiency speaker category of audiophiles. We drove the Essence with a 20W tube integrated and a pair of 120W tube power amps (manufacturer does recommend up to 200W) with wonderful results. It had a beautiful soundstage that was stunning clean and clear in the highs (through its 2.5″ ribbon tweeter) and mids. Bass was well supplemented through its 10.3″ paper based woofer that was able to reach down to 30Hz with a tight and well controlled “thump”. Frequency range is from 30Hz to 40KHz with a sensitivity of 97dB and a nominal impedance of 12 ohms. They were very easy to drive and just needs a bit of experimentation with placement in your room to bring out the best from these speakers. Speakers are 49″ tall with a 12″ width and depth. So they really do not take up more footprint than a regular size monitor speaker on stands but can produce a substantially more involving soundstage than what you would typically get from a pair of monitor speakers that are under $2,000. They are definitely different sounding when compared to the Cain and Cain speakers (also high efficiency but with full range drivers)where the Essence had a richer and fuller sound.
Cosmetically, the speakers are in good shape. Some minor scuff marks here and there that are common with use and a glossy black finish but nothing major. We don’t have the original boxes but will securely pack them for safe shipping. They will be shipped in two boxes so factor in times two for the shipping.
