Pensil vs. FH3 with Alpair 7.3

[sootboots]

Hi all, I have picked up a pair of Alpair 7.3 and must now decide on a cabinet design. The amp is a JE Labs design SET using KT90 in place of EL34, probably putting out 8W. I typically listen to jazz trios, female vocals, folk music, but also enjoy Zeppelin and Pearl Jam when the mood strikes....

The room is 14 x 18 and opening into a smaller dining room on one end. WAF will be a factor. I have a woodworking shop so other designs are possible.

Thought I would seek advice before I start the saw.

John

[planet10]

They are both good. I'd personally choose FH3 -- you should ask the wife which one she likes.

dave

Note that we have both here.

[chrisb]

Originally Posted by planet10

They are both good. I'd personally choose FH3 -- you should ask the wife which one she likes.

dave

Note that we have both here.

the Pensils are a pretty darn simple build, but I'd agree that if WAF approved, the FH3 would be my choice between the 2

I have Pensils in one of my own systems - and as much as mrs B likes the look of the FH3, they're only good for short visits and demos - they don't "disappear" enough


there is a builder's photo gallery that you might want to show your wife

Frugel-Horn Mk3 Picture Gallery

now if she's a music lover show her this post in particular:
Frugel-Horn Mk3 Picture Gallery

[sootboots]

That sounds like a good recommendation! Would there be a significant change in bass response if I used a "fonken-style" cab? I confess to liking strong, but well defined, bass at times.

John

[chrisb]

Originally Posted by sootboots

That sounds like a good recommendation! Would there be a significant change in bass response if I used a "fonken-style" cab? I confess to liking strong, but well defined, bass at times.

John

"MarKen" would have perhaps more "finesse" from the lower mid-bass down, but lack the impact and weight of either the Pensil or FH3 with the 7.3 - I can definitely see many folks sensing the need for woofers with the MarKens.

[chrisb]

of course, I should say - "build both, then decide"

that's a T-shirt I definitely have multiples of

[vinylkid58]

Originally Posted by chrisb

I can definitely see many folks sensing the need for woofers with the MarKens.

With Led Zep. on the table, powered woofers and a lot more than 8 watts.

jeff

[sootboots]

I should have come clean earlier, I am a CD user. That said, my 8 watts sounds pretty good so far! I am intrigued by the MarKen "finesse" and really only enjoy bass when I hear it but not feel it. Are the plans for sale at Planet 10?

John

[chrisb]

Originally Posted by sootboots

I should have come clean earlier, I am a CD user. That said, my 8 watts sounds pretty good so far! I am intrigued by the MarKen "finesse" and really only enjoy bass when I hear it but not feel it. Are the plans for sale at Planet 10?

John

some are free,

p10 hifi | Box Library / Mark Audio


others here

planet10-hifi miniOnken Plan-Set Subscriptions

[chrisb]

Originally Posted by sootboots

I should have come clean earlier, I am a CD user.

that's OK, we don't judge harshly here - some of our best friends are users