Mordaunt Short 902i: Detailed Review & Specs

by Jhon Lennon 45 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the world of audio excellence with a detailed look at the Mordaunt Short 902i speakers. If you're an audiophile or just someone who appreciates great sound, you've probably heard of Mordaunt Short. They've been crafting top-notch speakers for years, and the 902i model is definitely one that stands out. Let's get into what makes these speakers so special, their technical specifications, and why they might be the perfect addition to your home audio setup.

Unveiling the Mordaunt Short 902i

The Mordaunt Short 902i speakers are renowned for their exceptional audio performance and sleek design. These bookshelf speakers are designed to deliver a balanced and detailed sound experience, making them suitable for a variety of music genres and listening environments. Whether you're into classical music, rock, or electronic beats, the 902i aims to reproduce audio with clarity and precision.

Design and Build Quality

First impressions matter, and the Mordaunt Short 902i doesn't disappoint. The design is both elegant and functional. The curved cabinet isn't just for looks; it helps to minimize internal reflections, contributing to a cleaner sound. The speakers are available in various finishes, allowing them to blend seamlessly into different room decors. The build quality is also impressive, with a solid feel that speaks to the durability and longevity of the product.

The cabinet is constructed from high-density particleboard, which provides a rigid and stable platform for the drivers. This reduces unwanted vibrations and resonances, ensuring that the sound remains pure and uncolored. The front baffle is carefully designed to optimize the dispersion of sound, creating a wide and immersive soundstage. The overall aesthetic is understated yet sophisticated, making these speakers a stylish addition to any listening space. Furthermore, the attention to detail in the construction ensures that these speakers not only sound great but also stand the test of time.

Technical Specifications

Understanding the technical specs of the Mordaunt Short 902i is crucial to appreciating its capabilities. These speakers feature a two-way design, incorporating a tweeter and a mid-bass driver. The tweeter is typically a 1-inch aluminum dome, known for its ability to reproduce high frequencies with accuracy and clarity. The mid-bass driver, usually around 5.25 inches, is responsible for delivering the lower and mid frequencies, providing a full and rich sound.

  • Configuration: 2-way
  • Tweeter: 1-inch aluminum dome
  • Mid-Bass Driver: 5.25-inch
  • Frequency Response: Typically ranges from 55 Hz to 22 kHz
  • Sensitivity: Around 89 dB
  • Impedance: 4-8 Ohms
  • Power Handling: 15 - 120 watts
  • Dimensions (H x W x D): Varies slightly depending on the model, but generally around 300 x 185 x 270 mm
  • Weight: Approximately 5 kg each

The frequency response indicates the range of frequencies that the speaker can reproduce. A wider frequency response generally means that the speaker can deliver a more complete and balanced sound. The sensitivity rating tells you how efficiently the speaker converts power into sound. A higher sensitivity rating means that the speaker can produce a louder sound with less power. The impedance rating is important for matching the speaker with your amplifier. Make sure that your amplifier is compatible with the speaker's impedance to ensure optimal performance. The power handling specification indicates the amount of power that the speaker can handle without being damaged. It's important to choose an amplifier that falls within the speaker's power handling range.

Sound Quality

When it comes to sound quality, the Mordaunt Short 902i truly shines. These speakers are known for their balanced and detailed sound signature. The highs are crisp and clear, without being harsh or fatiguing. The midrange is smooth and natural, providing excellent vocal reproduction. The bass is tight and well-defined, adding depth and richness to the overall sound. The 902i excels in creating a wide and immersive soundstage, allowing you to hear every instrument and vocal with clarity and precision.

The speakers are particularly adept at reproducing acoustic instruments and vocals. The clarity and detail in the midrange make them ideal for listening to genres such as jazz, classical, and folk. The tight and well-defined bass ensures that the low frequencies are reproduced accurately, without sounding muddy or boomy. The overall sound signature is balanced and neutral, making these speakers suitable for a wide range of music genres. Whether you're listening to your favorite album or watching a movie, the Mordaunt Short 902i delivers an engaging and immersive audio experience. The speakers also perform well at different volume levels, maintaining their clarity and detail even at lower volumes.

Setting Up Your Mordaunt Short 902i

Proper setup is crucial to getting the best performance out of your Mordaunt Short 902i speakers. Here are a few tips to ensure optimal sound quality:

Placement

Speaker placement can significantly impact the sound quality. Position the speakers at ear level when you're seated in your listening position. This will ensure that the sound reaches your ears directly, without being obstructed by furniture or other objects. Experiment with different placements to find the sweet spot where the soundstage is widest and the imaging is most precise. Generally, placing the speakers about 6-8 feet apart and angling them slightly towards your listening position can produce excellent results. Keep the speakers away from walls and corners to avoid excessive bass buildup.

Amplification

Choosing the right amplifier is essential for driving the Mordaunt Short 902i speakers. Make sure that the amplifier's power output is within the speaker's power handling range. An amplifier with too little power may result in a weak and lifeless sound, while an amplifier with too much power can damage the speakers. Look for an amplifier that is known for its clean and neutral sound signature. This will allow the speakers to perform at their best, without adding any unwanted coloration to the sound. Consider integrated amplifiers or separate pre-amplifiers and power amplifiers, depending on your budget and preferences. Brands like Cambridge Audio, Rotel, and Marantz are known for producing high-quality amplifiers that pair well with Mordaunt Short speakers.

Room Acoustics

The acoustics of your listening room can also affect the sound quality. Hard surfaces, such as walls and floors, can reflect sound waves, causing echoes and reverberations. This can muddy the sound and reduce clarity. Soft surfaces, such as carpets, curtains, and acoustic panels, can absorb sound waves, reducing reflections and improving clarity. Consider adding acoustic treatments to your room to optimize the sound quality. Bass traps can be placed in the corners of the room to absorb low-frequency sound waves. Acoustic panels can be mounted on the walls to absorb mid and high-frequency sound waves. Experiment with different acoustic treatments to find the combination that works best for your room.

Pros and Cons of the Mordaunt Short 902i

Like any product, the Mordaunt Short 902i has its strengths and weaknesses. Here's a quick overview of the pros and cons:

Pros

  • Exceptional Sound Quality: Delivers a balanced and detailed sound signature, suitable for a variety of music genres.
  • Sleek Design: Features a modern and elegant design that complements any room decor.
  • Solid Build Quality: Constructed from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity.
  • Wide Soundstage: Creates an immersive and engaging listening experience.
  • Versatile: Suitable for both music listening and home theater applications.

Cons

  • Bass Response: May not be sufficient for those who prefer a very deep and powerful bass.
  • Power Requirements: Requires a decent amplifier to perform at its best.
  • Availability: May be difficult to find, as it is an older model.

Alternatives to the Mordaunt Short 902i

If you're considering other options, here are a few alternatives to the Mordaunt Short 902i:

  • Wharfedale Diamond 12.1: Known for their smooth and refined sound, the Wharfedale Diamond 12.1 speakers are a great alternative for those who prefer a more laid-back listening experience.
  • Q Acoustics 3020i: The Q Acoustics 3020i speakers offer excellent value for money, delivering a balanced and detailed sound at an affordable price.
  • Monitor Audio Bronze 2: The Monitor Audio Bronze 2 speakers are known for their lively and engaging sound, making them a great choice for rock and pop music.
  • KEF Q150: The KEF Q150 speakers feature KEF's signature Uni-Q driver, delivering a precise and immersive soundstage.

Final Verdict

The Mordaunt Short 902i speakers are a fantastic choice for anyone looking for high-quality audio performance and a sleek design. While they may be an older model, they still hold their own against many modern speakers. Their balanced sound signature, solid build quality, and wide soundstage make them a versatile option for music listening and home theater applications. Just remember to pair them with a decent amplifier and optimize your room acoustics to get the best possible sound. If you can find a pair in good condition, the Mordaunt Short 902i speakers are definitely worth considering. Happy listening, audiophiles!