Measurements
Contents
We also measured the Final Model 5, of course. Now this is totally different with a dipole electrostat, because the radiating behavior is substantially different. For example, a panel has a natural bleed towards the high. However, the energy conservation is much better than with a dynamic speaker. In short: the experience on the couch is different than the measurements suggest. Keep that in mind.
We did do some measurements with different angles and also the panel completely straight and leaning backwards, as they are delivered. With the panel straight, it measures significantly different (better, because more high retention) than with the panel leaning backwards. This makes sense, given the effect on the microphone (phase) and also our ears. Although our brains can compensate a lot by combining left and right.
What is primarily noticeable from the measurements is that there is incredibly little distortion in the mids and high ranges. We see at the best point -66 dB (about 0.05%) and on average everything below -60 dB (0.1%). This is impressively good.
In the (dynamic) low range it is above that value, but also well below 1% on average which is good for a dynamic woofer. Conclusion: we would set the panel straight given the high frequency response. And technically, it’s a decent piece of work, which the distortion figures show well.
Conclusion
What a different review after all these dynamic speakers. Electrostats behave totally different. And that also makes it a love it or hate it speaker. Especially a model with a larger panel. We do get electrostats. It is incredibly fast, open and transparent. And that may take some getting used to.With the Final, we find that it plays better upright than leaning back. Also, the modification to the bass system did a lot of good in our room. Fortunately, Final takes feedback seriously and these things are taken into consideration.
We like the fact that Final is back on the market. Now we hope that it catches on and continues. They deserve it!