Hey audiophiles, music lovers, and anyone who appreciates crystal-clear sound, let's dive headfirst into the world of Definitive Technology. For years, these guys have been crafting speakers that have wowed both critics and everyday listeners alike. This in-depth review will explore everything you need to know about Definitive Technology, from their history and core philosophy to the technologies they employ and, of course, the sound! We'll cover their most popular product lines, and even touch upon what to do if you ever need a Definitive Technology speaker repair. So, buckle up, grab your favorite tunes, and let's get started on this awesome journey to discover if Definitive Technology speakers are the perfect match for you and your listening preferences.

The Story Behind the Sound: Definitive Technology's Origins

Definitive Technology wasn't born overnight; the brand has a rich and compelling history. It all started in the early 1990s in Baltimore, Maryland, thanks to the vision of its founders, Sandy Gross, Don Keele, and Ed Bormann. Their shared passion for high-fidelity audio and a desire to bring exceptional sound quality to a wider audience fueled their journey. They set out to challenge the status quo, aiming to create speakers that were both sonically superior and aesthetically pleasing. They had a goal in mind: to make home audio a truly immersive and enjoyable experience. The company quickly gained traction, earning a reputation for innovation and quality. From the very beginning, Definitive Technology prioritized incorporating cutting-edge technologies into its designs, ensuring that their speakers would deliver an unparalleled listening experience. Sandy Gross, in particular, brought a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, having previously founded Polk Audio. This foundation of audio knowledge has been crucial to the company's success. The early days were marked by relentless experimentation and a commitment to refining their speaker designs, always with an ear for the perfect sound. Their dedication to using premium components and meticulous construction methods quickly set them apart from the competition. Definitive Technology wasn't just building speakers; they were crafting a legacy. They weren't afraid to push boundaries, leading to the development of unique and innovative features that are still hallmarks of the brand today. As the company grew, so did its product range, expanding from its initial focus on bookshelf and floor-standing speakers to include a comprehensive lineup of home theater systems, soundbars, and even outdoor speakers. Throughout it all, Definitive Technology has remained true to its core values: a relentless pursuit of sonic excellence, a dedication to quality craftsmanship, and a commitment to providing customers with an unparalleled listening experience. The commitment of this company to constantly improve their offerings is what has allowed Definitive Technology to stand the test of time, and is a great option for the audiophile and casual listeners alike.

Core Philosophy and Design Principles

Definitive Technology operates on a foundational philosophy that hinges on several key principles. The first, and perhaps most important, is the pursuit of uncompromising sound quality. They believe that music should be reproduced with the utmost accuracy and detail, allowing listeners to experience the full emotional impact of the performance. Another core principle is the integration of innovative technologies to enhance the listening experience. This means constantly exploring new materials, designs, and techniques to push the boundaries of what's possible in speaker design. They are not content with the status quo, always seeking ways to improve and refine their products. Design is another crucial component, as Definitive Technology understands that speakers are not just audio devices but also integral elements of a home's décor. Their speakers are engineered to be visually appealing, seamlessly integrating into any living space. The company's design aesthetic often combines sleek lines, premium materials, and a focus on both form and function. This careful balance ensures that their speakers not only sound amazing but also look fantastic. Definitive Technology also emphasizes the importance of user-friendliness. They design their speakers to be easy to set up, operate, and integrate with other audio components. They also have a very strong belief in customer satisfaction, with a dedicated team devoted to supporting customers and ensuring a positive ownership experience. The brand also focuses on providing value. They strive to offer high-quality speakers at various price points, making exceptional audio accessible to a wide range of consumers. The engineering teams at Definitive Technology are dedicated to creating products that deliver outstanding performance and represent a wise investment for audio enthusiasts. These design principles and philosophies contribute greatly to creating speakers that are not only amazing to hear but that are also easy to integrate into your home and lifestyle. These principles are the guiding lights for all their speakers.

Unpacking the Technology: Key Features and Innovations

Definitive Technology is known for several key technological innovations that set their speakers apart. Let's dig into some of their most notable features. One of the most important aspects is their use of Balanced Dual Surround System (BDSS) drivers. BDSS drivers are a signature technology, delivering a smooth, accurate, and wide soundstage. They use a unique surround design that minimizes distortion and allows for a more natural and balanced sound reproduction. Another key aspect is the use of built-in powered subwoofers. Many Definitive Technology speakers, especially their floor-standing models, integrate powered subwoofers. These subwoofers extend the low-frequency response, providing deep, impactful bass that enhances the overall listening experience. This is one of the features that make their home theater systems a popular choice. The use of aluminum dome tweeters is another signature. These tweeters are designed to deliver high-frequency detail and clarity, ensuring that even the most delicate musical nuances are accurately reproduced. Another notable feature is their acoustic suspension enclosures. These enclosures are engineered to minimize unwanted vibrations and resonances, contributing to a cleaner and more precise sound. Definitive Technology also employs a variety of crossover designs and technologies to ensure seamless integration between the drivers. Their engineers carefully tune the crossovers to optimize the frequency response and soundstage of their speakers. These crossovers are crucial for blending the sounds produced by different drivers seamlessly, resulting in a cohesive and immersive audio experience. The build quality of these speakers is another point of pride. They use premium materials and rigorous construction methods to ensure that their speakers are not only sonically superior but also built to last. From the cabinets to the internal components, every detail is carefully considered, resulting in speakers that are both durable and aesthetically pleasing. Definitive Technology is always looking for new ways to improve. They are always researching new materials and techniques to further enhance their speaker designs, ensuring that they remain at the forefront of audio innovation. These constant advancements are a testament to their dedication to producing high-quality sound.

Detailed Look at Driver Technologies

Definitive Technology speakers feature a range of driver technologies, each playing a crucial role in delivering their signature sound. The BDSS drivers are a cornerstone of their design philosophy. These drivers, with their unique surround design, minimize distortion and allow for a more natural sound reproduction. They are engineered to deliver a balanced and accurate sound across the frequency spectrum, ensuring that music and movie soundtracks sound as intended. The use of aluminum dome tweeters is another hallmark of the brand. These tweeters are known for their ability to reproduce high frequencies with exceptional clarity and detail. The lightweight and rigid nature of aluminum allows these tweeters to respond quickly to transient signals, resulting in crisp and precise high-frequency reproduction. The integration of powered subwoofers is another key feature, especially in their floor-standing models. These subwoofers extend the low-frequency response, providing deep and impactful bass. They are carefully tuned to integrate seamlessly with the other drivers, ensuring a cohesive and immersive listening experience. Mid-range drivers also play a key role in the overall sound quality. These drivers are designed to reproduce the crucial mid-range frequencies where much of the music and dialogue reside. Definitive Technology engineers their mid-range drivers to deliver accurate and natural-sounding vocals and instruments. The materials used in the drivers vary depending on the model, but they typically include high-quality components designed for optimal performance. The company’s engineers have found the perfect balance between different drivers to get the best audio experience. The combination of all of these advanced driver technologies ensures that Definitive Technology speakers deliver a comprehensive and immersive listening experience.

Diving into the Product Lines: A Model Breakdown

Definitive Technology offers several product lines, each catering to different needs and budgets. The Demand Series is the flagship line, featuring high-performance floor-standing speakers, bookshelf speakers, and center-channel speakers. The Demand Series speakers are known for their exceptional sound quality, elegant design, and advanced technologies. They are designed for serious audiophiles who demand the best possible audio experience. Another popular line is the BP Series, which includes bipolar speakers that deliver a unique, immersive sound. These speakers feature drivers on both the front and rear of the cabinet, creating a wider soundstage and filling the room with sound. These are a great option for people who love home theater experiences. The ProCinema Series is a more affordable option, offering compact and versatile home theater systems. These systems are easy to set up and deliver excellent sound quality for their size and price. They are a great choice for those who are just starting out in home theater or have limited space. The Mythos Series focuses on sleek, aesthetically pleasing speakers that integrate seamlessly into any living space. These speakers combine high-performance audio with a stylish design, making them a great choice for those who want both great sound and a beautiful look. The Studio Series features compact bookshelf speakers and subwoofers, designed for smaller rooms or as part of a multi-room audio system. These speakers offer excellent sound quality in a compact package, making them ideal for apartments or smaller living spaces. The Outdoor Series offers weather-resistant speakers designed to withstand the elements, perfect for enjoying music on your patio or in your backyard. The selection of various speakers from Definitive Technology allows customers to pick speakers that fit their needs.

Exploring Specific Models and Their Features

Let's take a closer look at some specific Definitive Technology models and their standout features. The Demand Series D11 is a high-performance floor-standing speaker known for its exceptional sound quality and elegant design. It features a BDSS mid-range driver, an aluminum dome tweeter, and a built-in powered subwoofer, delivering a full and immersive soundstage. The Demand Series D9 is a bookshelf speaker that offers exceptional sound quality in a compact package. It features a BDSS mid-range driver, an aluminum dome tweeter, and a passive radiator, providing a surprisingly deep and rich sound for its size. The BP9080x is a flagship model from the BP Series, featuring a bipolar design with drivers on both the front and rear of the cabinet. This design creates a wide and immersive soundstage, ideal for home theater applications. The ProCinema 600 is a compact home theater system that delivers excellent sound quality for its size and price. It includes satellite speakers, a center-channel speaker, and a subwoofer, providing a complete home theater experience. The Mythos XTR-SSA is a sleek soundbar that combines high-performance audio with a stylish design. It features a slim profile and delivers a wide soundstage, making it a great choice for those who want a simple yet effective home theater solution. The Studio 3D is a compact bookshelf speaker that offers excellent sound quality in a small package. It's ideal for smaller rooms or as part of a multi-room audio system. The AW6500 is an outdoor speaker that delivers weather-resistant sound for your patio or backyard. It features a durable design and provides excellent sound quality even in harsh outdoor conditions. These are just some examples of the many models offered by Definitive Technology, each with its own unique features and strengths. When choosing a model, consider your space, your listening habits, and your budget to find the perfect fit.

The Sound Check: Listening Experience and Performance

So, what does it all sound like? The listening experience with Definitive Technology speakers is generally characterized by several key attributes. First, you can expect a clean and clear sound, with a high level of detail. The speakers accurately reproduce music and movie soundtracks, allowing you to hear every nuance and subtlety. Another great attribute is their wide soundstage. Their speakers create a broad and immersive soundstage, making you feel as though you are right there in the middle of the performance. Instruments and vocals are precisely placed in the soundstage, creating a realistic and engaging listening experience. Impactful bass is another hallmark, especially with models that incorporate powered subwoofers. The bass is deep, tight, and well-defined, adding excitement and impact to music and movie soundtracks. Another key attribute is their smooth and balanced sound. The speakers are designed to reproduce a wide range of frequencies without any harshness or unwanted coloration. This results in a natural and enjoyable listening experience. They also offer versatility in terms of placement and application. Their speakers can be used in a variety of settings, from small rooms to large home theaters, and they are compatible with a wide range of audio components. The speakers provide an immersive and enjoyable listening experience, perfect for music lovers and home theater enthusiasts alike. Overall, the sound quality of Definitive Technology speakers is highly praised by both critics and customers. They are known for their accuracy, detail, and immersive soundstage, making them a top choice for those seeking a premium audio experience. Definitive Technology's focus on high-fidelity audio ensures that their speakers deliver a listening experience that is both engaging and rewarding. Their dedication to sonic excellence is evident in every model, offering listeners an unparalleled audio experience.

Comparison with Competitors

When comparing Definitive Technology speakers with those of their competitors, several key factors come into play. Many reviewers compare Definitive Technology to brands like Bowers & Wilkins, MartinLogan, and KEF. Definitive Technology often distinguishes itself with its integration of powered subwoofers in its floor-standing speakers. This design approach can provide deeper and more impactful bass compared to some competitors who may rely solely on passive drivers. In terms of value, Definitive Technology generally offers a competitive price-to-performance ratio. They provide high-quality sound and advanced features at a price point that is often more accessible than some of the high-end competitors. Definitive Technology speakers also often excel in creating a wide and immersive soundstage, which can enhance the home theater experience. Some competitors may prioritize a more analytical sound, while Definitive Technology aims for a balance between accuracy and musicality. Overall, Definitive Technology often provides a compelling combination of sound quality, features, and value, making it a strong contender in the speaker market. The speakers are often praised for their ability to deliver a balanced and enjoyable listening experience. Their innovative use of driver technologies, coupled with their elegant designs, further distinguishes them from the competition. It's always best to compare and contrast different brands to make sure you get the best speakers for your needs.

Trouble? Addressing Definitive Technology Speaker Repair

No matter how well-built a speaker is, issues can sometimes arise. Let's talk about Definitive Technology speaker repair. If you're experiencing problems, the first step is to consult your owner's manual and the Definitive Technology website. They often provide troubleshooting guides and FAQs that can help you diagnose and resolve common issues. Many problems can be fixed with simple troubleshooting, so it's always worth a try. If the issue persists, the next step is to contact Definitive Technology's customer support. They are usually happy to help and can guide you through the repair process or offer suggestions. Another option is to find an authorized Definitive Technology repair center. These centers have the expertise and equipment to diagnose and repair more complex issues. When seeking repair, be prepared to provide details about the problem, the speaker model, and your purchase date. This information helps the repair technician quickly assess the issue and provide an accurate estimate of the repair costs. Definitive Technology usually offers a warranty on their products, which may cover certain repairs. It is important to know your warranty details and whether or not your repair will be covered. Proper care and maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your speakers. This includes avoiding extreme temperatures, humidity, and direct sunlight, as well as keeping the speakers clean and dust-free. By addressing issues quickly and following the manufacturer's recommendations, you can keep your Definitive Technology speakers performing at their best for years to come. In conclusion, whether you need to fix a broken speaker, replace a tweeter, or something more serious, knowing your options for repair will ensure that your speakers will be performing at peak performance and that you can enjoy high-quality sound.

Common Issues and Solutions

Understanding common issues and solutions can help you troubleshoot your Definitive Technology speakers effectively. One common issue is distorted sound. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including blown drivers, loose connections, or incorrect settings. The first step is to check all the speaker connections and make sure they are secure. Then, you can try adjusting the volume levels and ensuring that your audio source is not clipping. If the distortion persists, you may need to have the drivers inspected or replaced by a qualified technician. Another frequent problem is a lack of sound from one or more speakers. This could be due to a faulty speaker cable, a blown fuse, or a problem with your amplifier. Check the speaker cables and connectors and make sure they are properly connected. Inspect the fuses in your amplifier and replace any that are blown. If the issue continues, you should check your amplifier and your speaker for damage. Buzzing or rattling sounds are often caused by loose components or vibrations. Check the speaker cabinet and ensure that all screws are tightened. You can also try placing the speaker on a solid, stable surface to minimize vibrations. No bass or weak bass can be an issue in speakers with built-in subwoofers. In this case, check the subwoofer settings and make sure that it is properly connected and turned on. Adjust the crossover settings to ensure that the subwoofer is receiving the correct frequencies. Finally, if you're experiencing any of these issues, it is essential to troubleshoot systematically. Check all connections, settings, and components before seeking professional help. Also, it is very important to consult the owner's manual and the manufacturer's website for specific troubleshooting tips. Knowing these common problems can help you diagnose and resolve issues with your Definitive Technology speakers. If you're not comfortable with making the repairs yourself, a professional technician can help you out.

Wrapping it Up: The Final Verdict

So, after taking a deep dive into Definitive Technology, are they worth it? The answer is a resounding yes! They create speakers that offer an outstanding combination of sound quality, features, and value. Their commitment to innovation, quality craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction makes them a top choice for both casual listeners and dedicated audiophiles. If you're looking for speakers that deliver a clean, clear, and immersive sound experience, Definitive Technology is a great place to start your search. Their different product lines, from the Demand Series to the BP Series, offer a wide range of options to fit various needs and budgets. The dedication to user-friendly design and excellent customer support is another reason why they are so popular. Their speakers are not only amazing to hear but also easy to integrate into your home and lifestyle. The brand's focus on technological advancements ensures that their speakers deliver a premium listening experience. By choosing Definitive Technology, you're not just buying speakers; you're investing in an audio experience that will bring you joy and entertainment for years to come. Definitive Technology's reputation for sonic excellence and their commitment to customer satisfaction truly set them apart. Whether you are building a new home theater system or upgrading your existing setup, Definitive Technology speakers are a great choice. So, go ahead, treat yourself to the amazing sound that Definitive Technology provides. You won't regret it!