What Hi Fi Sound and Vision
11 MAR 2008
Epos M12i
The ‘i’ mods bring this classic standmounter back to the forefront at this price level
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The M12i is the latest version of what is arguably Epos’s most admired product. The ‘i’ mods include a slimmer, smarter cabinet and detailed improvements across the tweeter, mid/bass unit and crossover. None of the changes is massive, but together they make a significant difference to the speakers’ performance. This new version is notably clearer and better controlled than before.
What doesn’t change is the speakers’ character. The M12’s DNA has always been stamped with blistering speed, forceful dynamics and the kind of surefooted timing that makes all but the very best of the competition sound as precise as a drunk at a party.
Take a listen to Grinderman’s debut set and the speakers tear through the recording with breathtaking agility and a clarity of purpose that’s hard to beat at this price – or any price, come to that.
Be careful when matching
The M12is are also lean, direct and not at all forgiving. These traits mean a great deal of care has to be taken with the rest of the system. You’ll need electronics that mirror the M12i’s good points, particularly the dynamics and timing, yet are refined enough not to egg the speakers into unruliness with already aggressive recordings. You’ll also need some solid stands and a room big enough to let these stand-mounters breathe.
Do these things, and you’ll get an enormously satisfying sound. Yes, the M12is veer towards leanness and don’t have the harmonic richness, treble sweetness or tonal neutrality of some rivals, but, despite these shortcomings, they communicate the music’s message with a skill few rivals can match, let alone better. It’s for that reason they get, and richly deserve, the full five stars.
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