Reference

THE LEGEND MAKES A DEFINITIVE STATEMENT

Engineering, innovation and a deep-rooted love of music have been the soul of FRIED Products for over 30 years. Now, an accumulation of all we have learned is offered in a no compromise loudspeaker that is a definitive statement in the reproduction of music. The time-honored design principles that are the hallmark of all FRIED products are the genesis of the first Definitive Series loudspeaker: the Reference. Every detail is meticulously engineered with only the accurate reproduction of music the goal.

TRANSMISSION LINE INNOVATIONS
Transmission line loading is the only means to preserve the dynamic, transient nature of music. The acoustical output from the rear of the cone must be absorbed and never reflect back to disrupt subsequent cone excursions. A well engineered transmission line is the only cabinet system that executes this simple requirement. The Reference utilizes the latest evolution of our Free-Flow technology that encompasses damping and line design for both the midrange and bass. Technical advancements in cabinet design to improve free flow parameters and maintain constant taper yields the smoothest frequency and impedance curves ever achieved in a FRIED design. The damping system uses the latest acoustical foam technology with advanced geometric treatments and refined open cell structure. Acoustical grade heavy non-resonant material is used to isolate external cabinet walls, reducing cabinet resonance. Measurements of the acoustical output from these re-engineered transmission lines is dramatically smoother with a more rapid cut-off of unwanted frequencies. The result is greater midrange clarity, increased dynamic range, greater transients with natural decay, and timbre, with less cancellation effects.

DEFINITIVE DRIVERS
The drivers chosen for the Reference are modified versions of technically advanced Scan-Speak Revelators. The midrange and woofer drivers feature heavy cast free flow magnesium baskets, dynamic linear suspension, anti-resonance mounting system, along with vented spiders and pole pieces. The motor system is modified for lower Qts and increased sensitivity. The cone and dust cap material is an amalgamated pulp material with several additions that stiffen the cone while maintaining excellent internal damping. The cones and dust caps are sliced in a radial pattern and filled with flexible polymer compound to further damp sound waves propagating through the diaphragm. The surround is molded from low damping rubber. This combination of treatments virtually eliminates traditional cone resonance modes. The tweeter used in the Reference is the dual concentric ring radiator. This tweeter features a neodymium motor structure, copper cap, cast magnesium faceplate, and unique non-resonant rear chamber. The mass of the diaphragm is extremely low since only sound is emitted from the outer ring; therefore, the frequency response extends out to 40 kHz. A wave guide system improves high frequency dispersion and provides the ultimate in dynamics and clarity.

UNPARALLELED CROSSOVER
The Reference crossover is a phase coherent first order series network. Series networks have inherent advantages over parallel networks and/or higher order slopes. Series networks give greater transient clarity and dynamic impact. A series network is better balanced reactively which makes the load seen by the amplifier more resistive, thereby allowing greater power transfer at crucial dynamic moments. The drivers stay more in phase providing sharper leading edges to transient sounds. The active impedance of the drivers at the crossover frequency is stabilized so that power is shared more predictably between them increasing the Doppler Effect. First order crossovers are less reactive, meaning they store less energy and do not ring as this energy is dissipated. The parts used in the crossover are among the finest available, including potted heavy gauge air core inductors, audiophile grade capacitors and resistors. The binding posts are supplied by WBT and the internal wiring is heavy gauge silver-plated oxygen free copper.

DEFINITIVE CONSTRUCTION
Transmission line enclosures are inherently well braced and have low internal pressures. However, the Reference cabinet is constructed from the highest quality HDF and has additional bracing throughout in critical locations to increase rigidity. The driver mounting panel is machined from one-inch thick high density composite material that is coupled to the substructure producing an extremely rigid sounding board. The base is also machined from high density composite material and has a high quality spike system for resonance dissipation. Real wood veneers of exceptional quality are used to finish the Reference.

YOU ARE THERE
The Reference is designed to portray every nuance of a musical performance, delivering an astonishingly real quality with breathtaking dynamic performance. Voices and instruments appear in their true spatial positions, with accurate timbres. The reproduction of orchestral dynamics is exquisitely vivid revealing soft sounds as well as powerful peak levels without strain at any frequency. The FRIED Reference stands ready to transport you to the scene of the original performance. Be there.