Would you consider an all-in-one active speaker system if the engineering is done right?

[maelstr0m99]

when I see " all in one active speaker system" I think of proprietary filters and very consumer oriented. I don't think presets do the trick of variable filter control or custom filters but sometimes can do a very good job

 

[RexrothPigeon]

when I see " all in one active speaker system" I think of proprietary filters and very consumer oriented. I don't think presets do the trick of variable filter control or custom filters but sometimes can do a very good job

That seems like an assumption. The all in one actives in this thread so far can be used with REW or other outboard systems. I know mine (D&D 8c) can (and are).

 

[Marc v E]

My main concern is the engineering trade-off.

Integration makes the signal path shorter and gives the manufacturer much more control over amplification, crossover, driver protection and DSP. On the other hand, it reduces modularity and makes upgrades or repairs more difficult.

For ASR members, I’d be interested in knowing:
[*]What measurements would you consider essential before taking a product like this seriously?

Spinorama with an even frequency response and directivity.
Less distortion is a plus. Could also be mitigated by having sub(s) out and integrated crossover.

[*]Would you prefer fully active speakers with integrated electronics, or separate streamer/DAC/amplifier components?

Integrated amplifier in speakers for sure. Dsp could be yes and eq too if measurement microphone and easy, largely automated process is provided with manual adjustments possible. Could be a selling point for an integrated system. That would probably make the dac necessary too. No streamer please. That makes the speaker susceptible to being out of date within 2 years.

[*]How important is user-replaceable electronics or modularity?

It depends. As long as it keeps working I couldn't care less. Ime speakers need to be bought for their specific application anyway, desk setup in small room, medium room, large living room. Changing room layout, spouses wishes or moving house makes a change necessary anyway.
However, if repair or service takes long or takes sending the speakers in, I would prefer to get the module sent and connect it myself if it isn't too much hassle. Ie a modular approach which slots right in or needs only 1 or 2 connections and 4 screws would be highly preferable.

[*]Would good spinorama/directivity data, low distortion and sufficient SPL outweigh concerns about an all-in-one architecture?

Yes. See d&d 8c, neumann kh150, kh750, genelec 8030C reviews. I have the 8030C myself with a seperate preamp/streamer and sub.

[*]What design mistakes in current active/all-in-one speakers would you most want to see avoided?

Needing a phone, app or internet connection to get them set up, working or turned on/off.
Including the streamer.
Being physically to big (deep). Wide doesn't matter.
Not being able to wall mount.
Not having enough amplifier power.