Doubts

[YSC]

Here is a portion of the first email I was sent by Elac:

Usually we would recommend having your unit sent to our service center to have them inspect and fix the problem, however with the Adante Floorstanders they are usually epensive and have complications with shipping due to the weight and size.

As for the sealing issue, we have had people resolve the issue by taking out the drivers from their cabinet and using wood glue on all the internal edges to cover up any leaks; alternatively you could also use caulking cord to cover up the leaks as well.

Even by sealing the edges, some like to plug one of the internal port tubes as well.

An update came a few days later after I charged them with "breach of contract" because the speaker was still under warranty. An Elac representative did reach out to me and is working on a solution. I have no efficient skills at caulking or electrical work and I am not sure my efforts would remedy the problem. The speakers bass has failed and the cause might be a sealed chamber that is now leaking. When I press the top passive diaphragm, air comes out the tweeter. The other Elac speaker that works well does not have this issue.

This is bad… for something this expensive I’d expect they should ask you send back, or they send a technician to do it

 

[Front Row]

This is bad… for something this expensive I’d expect they should ask you send back, or they send a technician to do it

An Elac representative has reached out to me and is trying to arrange for someone to remedy the problem. I will post any updates.

 

[YSC]

An Elac representative has reached out to me and is trying to arrange for someone to remedy the problem. I will post any updates.

That’s nice to hear! I do think if they offer such service at first will be much better. Premium products need that extra care so one gets comfortable when buying new

 

[Front Row]

I agree wholeheartedly. It seems there was no plan by Elac if one of their heavy and expensive speakers went awry.

 

[mhardy6647]

Sounds like ELAC was trying to help a customer save money (and risk) -- and is working with the customer in an "above and beyond" manner.
I.e., sounds like outstanding customer service to me (FWIW).

I am also going to take this opportunity to mention that the issue of cabinet seal on these ELACs (at least one of the Adante models) is, apparently, a thing.

Elac Adante AF-61 (took some diy to make perfect)

So let me preface this by saying that I am very happy with these speakers (now) and for the price I got them new I have nothing to complain about BUT:

forum.polkaudio.com

 

[Front Row]

I saw that thread when Elac first suggested I fix the problem. I really don't have the tools or experience to do all that is required. If the speakers were 2K dollars cheaper I might have given it the "old college try." But it was bit too pricey to experiment. I have learned that it is better to hire professionals for some jobs.

 

[YSC]

Sounds like ELAC was trying to help a customer save money (and risk) -- and is working with the customer in an "above and beyond" manner.
I.e., sounds like outstanding customer service to me (FWIW).

I am also going to take this opportunity to mention that the issue of cabinet seal on these ELACs (at least one of the Adante models) is, apparently, a thing.

Elac Adante AF-61 (took some diy to make perfect)

So let me preface this by saying that I am very happy with these speakers (now) and for the price I got them new I have nothing to complain about BUT:

forum.polkaudio.com

I think sending some local repair technician is a better way to do, with some layman workmanship, there is a pretty high chance of messing up something like the finish, a premium product IMO should have that factored in the cost, while after warranty the same service can cost an arm and a leg with no problem

 

[Boremc]

And kef q650 or monoprice 365c??

 

[svenz]

Making the same decision at the moment for my home theatre! I think Kef Q350 is the winner for me, simply because they are so much cheaper in Europe. Right now they are going for 380/pair, vs 500/pair for DBR62s. Preference score is almost identical. I imagine with EQ most of the issues on the q350 will be solved. Another thing is the matching center Q650c is pretty good too (although has some FR issues that can be fixed with eq), whereas the DCR52 is objectively bad.

 

[Front Row]

Recently, Elac is trying to solve the problem. It appears they might replace the defective speaker.

 

[Front Row]

To update the Elac Speaker issue: Either Elac was going to send a repair person to fix the speaker or send a new speaker that was "tested" to make sure it works. After waiting about two months, an Elac representative said a new speaker would be sent soon.

 

[Front Row]

That day finally came as a delivery man brought a big box that said Elac. The Adante speaker appears to work well after a quick inspection. I will know more when I have more time but all seems well.

 

[Streamc]

Amp?

 

[Front Row]

Cambridge CX 80