Measurements Dali Rubicon 2C
Contents
The Dali Rubicon 2C measures quite well. It is difficult to perform a good measurement, because there is an AD-converter and a DSP in the signal path. And we noticed them in the measurements. But if we leave the bass response aside for a moment (it squeezes a bit at higher volumes), we see an energetic high-respons. Also off axis at the listening position. On axis is the ‘hump’ at 15 kHz no less than 6dB. But off axis it is still 2 to 3 dB. Anyway, Dali tweaks that range a bit. Also between 3 and 5 kHz we see half a dB’s… A little shine. By the way, forget the dip in the bass at about 150 and 200 Hz: these are ground reflections. These reflections also recur to a lesser extent further on.
Distortion is low. We measure in the low range around 5.5% (at 20 Hz), but that drops rapidly to 1% at 100 Hz and then further below 1% at 300 Hz. Could it be better? Yeah. We’ve measured models that perform better. Even better: the passive Rubicon 2 measures better. We just put those readings below. It has to be Dali’s tuning choice to do it this way. Of course there is electronics in the Rubicon 2C. It takes up space. This is likely to have an impact on the low frequency response.
Directly in speaker
In order to have a more thorough analysis of the speakers’ performance, we also measure directly through the RCA input of the speaker. We see a difference in distortion in the bass. Apparently the hub’s doing something to the signal. When measuring directly through the speaker, the bass distortion is higher than through the hub. However, the low response is also different. In the middle and high the distortion is also a bit higher: about 5dB. In short: performance via the Hub is better. Could be signal matching, could be dsp… hard to say.
Measurements passive Rubicon 2
Conclusion
The new Dali Rubicon 2C is something special. It offers a nice balance between hi-fi, fun, convenience and price. We see and hear that Dali has thought carefully about this new series of active speakers. The Callisto offers a 'nice' sound, Rubicon on the other hand tends to lean more towards hi-fi, We hear - and measure - however, the 'dot of cream and some ice cubes'. But that doesn't matter: it makes it fun to listen to the Rubicon. And that's probably even more important: enjoyment. Lol...In terms of installation and operation: hats off. This is a system that is so easy to install and operate. Plug, set... play. Pay attention to the positioning of these speakers. You'll soon get too much bass. A meter from the wall is recommended.
To be helpful…..I’m not a fan of unexplained acronyms. I know this is an older review, yet as the Rubicon 2C is still available, others may also return here. The acronym ‘SCM’ used here is for the underlying technology that Dali believes makes their lineup special. From the Dali website: “SMC (Soft Magnetic Composite) is a coated, magnetic, granular material that offers a highly unusual combination of very high magnetic permeability and very low electrical conductivity.” They suggest that this material lowers distortion and excessive or undesirable coloration. You can find more including a video explanation on their website.