Other manufacturers’ top-of-the-line designs look slight and feeble compared to one of the most remarkable things ever to make a noise. But the Tannoy Westminster Royal is king. And This device, the monarch of Tannoy’s Prestige Range, is simply unique in every way. And this is Tannoy Westminster Royal Review for you interest.
Aside from its intimidating physical presence, Tannoy’s design philosophy is evident in its longevity. While fashions come and go, Westminster has stayed true to its roots. For example, in the 1970s and 1980s, everyone from KEF to Linn produced stupidly complex multi-driver systems that drained power. And to the point, where you required a direct line into the National Grid to get a squeak out them.
Tannoy Westminster Royal
Back then, the Westminster would have seemed like a pointless relic, a laughable anachronism, a throwback to a bygone era. But, Instead, tubes are back in style, efficiency is high, and the large Tannoy’s design appears to be common sense.
Although the styling harkens back to the early Baroque era, don’t expect it to sound ancient and sluggish. And, Tannoy is one of the most agile, musical speakers you’ll ever hear. Also, the massive Dual Concentric driver in Tannoy’s most prominent 15-inch (380mm) form, as well as the magnificent compound horn, filled 530-litre cabinet, are to thank for this. The result is a mind-blowing 99dB sensitivity level that, even if powered by a Discman, would most likely blow out your windows.
But, when you combine this with the driver’s premium spec double roll fabric surround, Alnico magnet system, and Tulip Waveguide. Yes, you’ve got something louder than a Motor-head concert with the PA set up to eleven!
Another reason to drop your jaw is the frequency response characteristics. The Westminster goes down to 18Hz (at 6dB), possibly the best-ever loudspeaker for Roni Size and LTJ Bukem. Yes, Drum N bass will never sound the same again. Regardless, the twin concentric tweeter delivers 18kHz (at –6dB), which is just about adequate for clean treble. And When you combine it with Tannoy’s Prestige SuperTweeter, you’ve got yourself a real winner. Tannoy Westminster Royal Review
Power handling
The Westminster can easily outperform most PA stacks thanks to its vast power handling. And incredible sensitivity, and subterranean bass qualities. But its air-moving powers aren’t the objective. Due to its transient lightning response (a drive unit with a magnet the size of China driving a featherweight paper cone is hardly going to be slow, is it?). And this speaker has a lot of musicality. Tannoy Westminster Royal Review
The Dual Concentric design also crosses over acoustically at 200Hz and electrically at 1kHz. And both far away from the most sensitive part of the ear. Also, when you consider Westminster’s virtually unusual feature of having an enclosure with a wavefront area that approaches that of real instruments. Yes, it’s easy to see why sound flows so freely from this behemoth. Tannoy Westminster Royal Review
Drawbacks
There are two drawbacks to Westminster. To begin with, don’t expect it to be as sophisticated, subtle, and detailed as an electrostatic. No, with that giant paper cone blowing around in the breeze. The second issue is where to put the blasted thing. You’ll need a large listening area to accommodate two 1,395x980x560mm boxes if you can afford a pair. Hire someone to put in the 276kg heavily damped and internally cross-braced solid walnut with 25 birch ply! Tannoy Westminster Royal Review
It’s a pity that these loudspeakers are disregarded mainly in their home market of the United Kingdom. Ironic, given that they’re practically fashionable for fans of valves and vinyl in Far Eastern markets. There are few better ways to appreciate jazz music without going to New Orleans than with a nice single-ended tube power amp and a well-preserved Garrard/ SME/ Decca combo. Even said, the latter approach may be more cost-effective in the long run – if you can find a pair of Westminster, prepare to pay at least a king’s ransom for them. And if you have enjoyed reading ‘Tannoy Westminster Royal Review’, please share with friends and colleagues.
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Dated: 10/07/2017
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