What Hi Fi Sound and Vision
12 SEP 2005
Quad L-ite
Quad downsized its L Series loudspeakers, and the result of that shrinkage is the L-ite multichannel package, a sub/sat system in the traditional mould. The satellites use a conventional cabinet design, and their build is nigh-on identical to Quad’s Award-winning L Series.
The L-ite satellites use a 10cm version of the L Series bass driver, and an upgraded version of its tweeter. All the loudspeakers are magnetically shielded, biwirable, and are available in a choice of four piano-gloss finishes: black, rosewood, silver or cherry. The last two finishes are specific to this L-ite package, and unfortunately there are no plans extend the option to the rest of the L Series.
Extra satellites are available, and the excellent L-ite subwoofer is also available on its own, so, all the signs seem promising. But can the petite Quad system put in a ‘larger than lite’ performance?
Larger than L-ite
The subwoofer certainly can: it’s a sensational unit in its own right, capable of delivering bass with great weight and authority. And it also gives the required amount of punch, precision and tautness.
The subwoofer integrates fairly seamlessly with the rest of the system, creating a detailed and atmospheric sound. And after a thorough run-in, the Q-Lite speakers open up to reveal their fine dynamic ability and musical talent.
The centre channel produces expressive and natural dialogue during Oliver Stone’s Alexander, and though it doesn’t gel quite as effortlessly with the other satellites as it might, you’re still in for an immensely entertaining experience. Stereo and multichannel music sounds as solid and detailed as movies, too.
So, Quad might have downsized with the L-ite, but the company certainly hasn’t gone downmarket in terms of performance, which is good in this fiercely competitive market. If you’re after a traditional-looking, top-performing package, this could be the baby.
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