THE MODEL VSM-1

THE
OPTIMUM SURROUND SPEAKER
The Vandersteen VSM-1 is an advanced surface-mount
loudspeaker optimized for the unique requirements of the rear channel positions in a
multi-channel audio/video system. It was developed and refined by twenty years of
intensive research into loudspeaker design and multiple speaker integration. Its
innovative engineering, superior components and quality construction provide true
high-fidelity performance.
ALIGNED COAXIAL DESIGN
With stereo, imaging became part of home music reproduction. Today, modern
multi-channel systems can add the third dimension and create an expansive, realistic
soundfield. The way to do this in a large, purpose built studio is with four identical
full-range speakers and a center speaker. Most homes however, do not have the room to
place the rear speakers where their drivers can fully converge and properly align at the
listening positions. Without this critical alignment, the rear speakers will not match the
time, phase or amplitude of the front speakers. (i.e. timbre and voicing)
The VSM-1 is the optimum rear channel speaker for these
situations. Its coaxial woofer and tweeter share the same acoustical center so they are
always perfectly aligned and converge within inches. When wall mounted in a typical living
room, VSM-1s provide a superb timbre and voice match to Vandersteen center and floor
standing speakers. They maintain this essential match regardless of their placement or
proximity to the listeners. Their immunity to multi-driver interference insures consistent
performance through the listening environment.
APPLICATIONS
In addition to perfectly complementing Vandersteen front speakers in a matrixed
multi-channel system, the VSM-1 joins the VCC-1 center speaker in exceeding all the
requirements of the discrete multi-channel formats (AC-3, DTS, etc.) Its innovative
crossover circuitry insures that it can safely handle the high-power, low-frequency
information the discrete formats send to the rear speakers. Its front-firing, single
driver configuration provides a high dynamic range without the multi-driver interference
and distortions of bi-polar designs.
With its combination of convenience and performance, the VSM-1
can also be used as a high quality remote speaker in multi room installations. Mated with
the appropriate subwoofer, it is a superb full-range main speaker for domestic situations
where larger speakers are not practical. In any situation, the VSM-1's moderate size and
versatile placement options allow it to be successfully integrated into the decor of your
home.
COMPONENTS
The VSM-1 combines classic strength and durability with innovative design and
materials. Its coaxial driver uses a rigid, acoustically inert cast-metal basket to
improve cone movement accuracy and reduce sympathetic resonances. The 6 1/2 inch woofer's
filled polycone insures high internal stiffness while the 1-inch alloy dome tweeter is
ferrofluid cooled to increase power handling and critically damped for smooth response.
The transient-perfect, first-order crossover's computer-grade components, including high-quality film capacitors in the signal path, are hand soldered on a double-sided, plated-through circuit board for superior consistency and reliability. The input block is directly soldered onto the circuit board and the driver elements are connected with custom high-purity wire for maximum signal transfer.
The enclosure is constructed entirely of MDF, a pressure-formed
material that effectively resists vibration and controls cabinet resonances. The unique
mounting system uses the speaker's own mass to hold it tight against the wall for proper
coupling and stability.
DRIVER
Aligned coaxial design with a 6 1/2" die-cast basket polycone woofer and a
1" critically-damped, alloy dome tweeter.
SPECIFICATIONS
Even with advanced test equipment and complex computer analysis, loudspeaker
design remains an incomplete science. No measurements currently available can fully convey
the sound of a speaker or provide a meaningful comparison between differing designs. The
truth is in the listening.
Specifications and design are subject to change without notice due to our ongoing research and development program.
Please contact Vandersteen Audio for complete product information and performance graphs.
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Copyright 2004 Vandersteen Audio, Inc.