Raidho Acoustics X1.6 review

In the realm of high-end audio, Raidho Acoustics has long been synonymous with exceptional engineering and stunning sound quality. The Danish manufacturer, founded in 2003 and now operating under Dantax Radio A/S, continues this tradition with the X1.6 standmount speakers. These speakers represent an intriguing proposition: delivering much of Raidho's renowned sound quality at a more approachable price point than their flagship models.

Design and Construction

The X1.6 showcases Raidho's commitment to precision engineering, beginning with its robust construction. The cabinet features a 20mm thick aluminum front baffle, available in either piano black or piano white finish. Each speaker weighs a substantial 11.5kg, reflecting the quality of materials and construction. The manufacturing process is notably meticulous, with each speaker assembled by a single craftsperson and carefully compared against a reference unit before leaving the factory.

Driver Technology

At the heart of the X1.6's performance are two exceptional drivers. The upper register is handled by Raidho's signature ribbon tweeter, a technological marvel featuring an ultra-thin 11-micrometer foil membrane weighing just 20 milligrams. This design allows for exceptional transient response and frequency extension up to 50kHz, far beyond the human hearing range but contributing to the overall airiness and natural presentation of the treble.

The 165mm Ceramix mid-bass driver represents another triumph of engineering. It employs an aluminum cone with aluminum-oxide ceramic bonding, created through a sophisticated plasma process under high voltage. The driver's motor system utilizes a push-pull configuration with dual rows of neodymium magnets, focused around an open architecture that provides ventilation and cooling for the titanium voice coil.

Performance

The X1.6 delivers remarkable sonic performance that belies its position in Raidho's lineup. The speakers present a detailed, precise soundstage with holographic imaging capabilities that create a convincing three-dimensional presentation of music. The ribbon tweeter provides exceptional detail and extension without ever becoming harsh or etched, a common pitfall in high-end speakers.

In the critical midrange, voices are rendered with outstanding clarity and natural tonality. The speakers excel at reproducing complex vocal performances, presenting singers with proper scale and presence while maintaining all the subtle nuances that make performances engaging. The integration between the ribbon tweeter and the Ceramix driver is seamless, avoiding the midrange-treble discontinuity that plagued some earlier Raidho models.

Bass performance is notably impressive for a standmount design. The X1.6 reaches down to 45Hz with authority, presenting bass notes with clarity and control rather than artificial enhancement. While they won't replace a well-integrated subwoofer for the deepest bass passages, the speakers deliver remarkable low-frequency performance for their size.

System Integration and Setup

One of the X1.6's most appealing characteristics is its relative ease of setup compared to more expensive Raidho models. While they reward careful placement and system matching, they're not as demanding as their upmarket siblings. The speakers perform well with modest electronics while maintaining the ability to scale up with more sophisticated equipment.

Room integration is straightforward, though some experimentation with positioning will yield optimal results. The speakers work well in the traditional stereo triangle configuration, positioned a couple of feet from walls. Fine-tuning of toe-in angle and distance from boundaries can be accomplished gradually, and the speakers' use of feet rather than aggressive spikes makes this process more manageable.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Two-way, rear-ported stand-mount loudspeaker
• Drivers: 1× Raidho Ribbon tweeter, 1× 165mm Raidho Ceramix mid-bass
• Crossover point: 3.5kHz
• Frequency Response: 45Hz–50kHz ±3dB
• Sensitivity: 87dB (2.83V/m)
• Nominal Impedance: > 6Ω
• Dimensions (W×H×D): 20 × 36 × 26.5cm
• Weight: 11.5kg

Conclusion

The Raidho Acoustics X1.6 represents an impressive achievement in loudspeaker design, offering much of the company's flagship technology and performance at a more accessible price point. While still a significant investment, these speakers deliver exceptional resolution, natural tonality, and impressive dynamics that compete with much more expensive designs. They manage to combine analytical precision with musical engagement, making them equally adept at critical listening and pure enjoyment.

For those seeking the renowned Raidho sound without the extreme demands on system matching and room setup of their top-tier models, the X1.6 presents a compelling option. They maintain the company's standards for build quality and sonic excellence while proving more forgiving in real-world applications. The result is a speaker that can serve as either an endpoint or a stepping stone in a high-end audio journey, delivering musical satisfaction at either station.