|
Equipment
The opus 20 towers are two-way full range models, standing a substantial 220 x 830 x 270 (WHD)
and weigh in at 16kg each. They feature angled side and front edges that make them appear less
boxy,
along with solid black bases for protection. Behind the soft fabric grille of each monitor is a
25mm soft dome fabric tweeter centrally mounted above a 150mm Aerogel mid/bass driver, with a
68mm forward-firing
bass reflex directly below it. The rear of each cabinet features a mounting panel with two pairs
of thick gold-plated screw binding posts for both standard and bi-wiring configurations. In keeping
with Whatmough’s astute design philosophy, the high-grade crossover networks inside feature
point-to-point hard wiring rather than using PCBs, high-grade Solens capacitors and soldered Australian
solid core copper wire rather than common push connections, promoting premium performance and ensuring
longevity. The Opus 20 has a rated frequency response of 45Hz to 20kHz, with a recommended amplification
of between 25-100 watts into each 8 ohm speaker.
Taking care of the rear channels are a pair of Opus FX Mini-Monitor speakers. These matching surround
speakers share the same 25mm soft dome tweeter as the floor standing monitors, but smaller 124mm
mid/bass drivers in sealed enclosures measuring 185 x 300 x 180mm (WHD) and weigh 6kg each. The
Opus FX feature rear mounting plates but only two gold-plated binding posts and are recommended
for 25-100
watts into 8 ohms.
The Opus 1 dedicated centre channel speaker is horizontally oriented with a sealed cabinet that
again features the same 25mm tweeter but this time dual 124mm mid/bass drivers. The wiring arrangement
and specifications are the same as the Opus FX, recommended at 25-100 watts into 8 ohms. All
the cabinets are strong and sturdy with high-quality finishes, and the rear of each also has
a model
plate with its own unique serial number for security.
Performance
The Opus system performed quite well without low frequency assistance. However, it took some
heavy positive bass adjustment on the amplifier to really help the full-range Opus 20 reproduce
low frequency
effect in DVD movies and bass notes on Audio CDs. The bass-reflex design of the Opus 20 helps
them achieve reasonable bass extension, that said the Opus system would be even better with
one of Whatmough’s
excellent powered subwoofers from the Typhoon or Tempest line.
Vocal frequencies from DVDs and CDs were captured and reproduced very favourably, with great
clarity and tonal accuracy. Indeed, the Opus speakers brought the dialogue to the fore with
DVDs with quiet
vocal soundtracks, and we never needed to change the volume for different scenes. The floorstanding
monitors created a very spacious and articulate soundstage that was enhanced by the consistency
of the drivers of the surround speakers. As a stereo pair, the Opus 20 were delightfully rich
and accurate,
impressing by delivering great breathiness and clarity, as well as tight precision in the midrange.
There were not gaps or holes in the audio spectrum besides the very deep sub bass, which can
be easily rectified by adding a subwoofer.
Conclusion
It’s only surprising that Whatmough’s new Opus surround speaker package performs remarkably
well when you consider the highly affordable price. The Opus series upholds Whatmough’s reputation
and represents undeniable value for money when you consider that it is a full-size, high-quality
speaker system, designed and made in Australia. Simply add a subwoofer for a superb home theatre
package.
|
