The passive loudspeakers of the Opticon series have been synonymous with DALI’s clear, distortion-free reproduction ever since their first version appeared five years ago. Nevertheless, it was time to not only develop the series visually, but also to enrich it with new ideas and technologies on the sound side. What remains unchanged, apart from masterful sound, is the exclusive production of the Opticon MK2 series and its components in Denmark.
Opticon MK2 Series’ Loudspeakers
The Opticon MK2 series sees itself as a mid-range product with high-end standards within the DALI family of passive loudspeakers. Instead of seven loudspeakers as before, it is now made up of a total of six models. First of all, there are the Opticon 1 MK2 compact loudspeakers and the Opticon 2 MK2, which is slightly larger with a 10-litre cabinet. Both are equipped with an SMC-based bass-midrange driver, which is a bit larger in the Opticon 2, and with the fabric dome tweeter, which is based on the Callisto series. Their dual-flare bass-reflex path enables an astonishing bass performance which is perfectly integrated into the midrange and treble reproduction. Their size and mounting options make them particularly suitable for use in small to medium-sized rooms.
The Opticon 6 MK2 and the Opticon 8 MK2 extend the product range with two brilliant floor-standing speakers. The 6 MK2 is slightly slimmer than the Opticon 8 MK2. The first model in the Opticon series is already equipped with the well-known DALI hybrid tweeter consisting of a fabric dome tweeter and a ribbon tweeter. As with the previous series, the combination of dome and ribbon tweeter has proved to be efficient in displaying particularly detailed and far-reaching treble. Two 6.5-inch wood-fibre cones with SMC-based magnet provide refined clarity in the mid-range and high bass performance. The Opticon 8 MK2 is aptly referred to by DALI as the “power plant”. As a three-way system, it has two woofers with SMC magnet and 8-inch wood-fibre cones, as well as a 6.5-inch midrange driver, which is also equipped with SMC magnet system and a wood-fibre cone. The Opticon 6 MK2 and the Opticon 8 MK2 allow, thanks to bi-wiring, an independent connection of the low-midrange (or bass and midrange) with the high-frequency module. In addition, the floorstanding speakers are supplied with cast aluminium base elements which can be extended with either black chrome-plated floor spikes or vibration-reducing damping pads.
The Opticon LCR MK2 combines the strengths of the Opticon MK2 technologies in a compact and above all flat housing, which has been optimised for wall mounting. Its design makes it particularly suitable for use as a left, right or centre channel within a multi-channel home cinema system.
The best choice for centre channel applications in multi-channel AV systems is probably the Opticon Vowel MK2. Thanks to its housing dimensions and the bass reflex port opening to the front, it can be installed without any problems, even in AV furniture closed at the rear.
Conclusion
With the exception of the Opticon 8 MK2, which is only available in ash satin black and tobacco oak, the other five models are also available in satin white. The passive loudspeakers of the Opticon MK2 series are guaranteed to fit into any household, thanks to their functional, timeless design. Apart from their external values, each second-generation model in the Opticon range offers outstanding sonic performance, making them a perfect introduction to the world of DALI sound.
