Short answer: the HiVi Swans 3.1A Sehlin Sound Solutions mod is the more accurate starting point, while the Zu Audio Method trades tonal fidelity for high sensitivity. The modified HiVi kit has mostly smooth on-axis behavior for a DIY three-way.
Its issue is a directivity error around 2.1kHz, which can make that transition sound different as you move off axis. That is a manageable flaw compared with a broad response hole.
The Method averages roughly 90 to 90.7dB through the vocal band, useful with low-powered amplification. But its 1.5 to 3kHz suckout can reach 19dB below the mean, removing presence and attack from voices, brass, and woodwinds.
Buy the HiVi Swans 3.1A Sehlin Sound Solutions mod if a smoother tonal balance is the objective.
Buy the Zu Audio Method if very high sensitivity is essential and you accept its unusually recessed presence region.
Want more options? Browse the full Passive Home rankings.
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Specifications Side By Side
| HiVi Swans 3.1A Sehlin Sound Solutions mod | Zu Audio Method | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $364.99 per pair for the kit (assembly required) | $700 per pair |
| Ranked | #97 of 222 in Large Size Bookshelf Speakers | #220 of 222 in Large Size Bookshelf Speakers |
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 38Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) | 56Hz (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner) |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 60Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) | 92Hz (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner) |
| Impedance | 4 ohms nominal, 3.8 ohms minimum (measured, Audio Science Review) | 8 ohms |
| Drivers | 6.5” Kevlar woofer, 2” Dome midrange, 1” Soft Dome tweeter | 8” coax HE (Eminence/Zu) woofer, Eminence ASD-1001 tweeter |
| Sensitivity | 86.5dB (measured, Audio Science Review) | 91dB |
| Woofer Cabinet | ported, rear | ported, front |
| Weight | 13.7 lbs (6.2 kg) | 12.1 lbs (5.5 kg) |
| Dimensions | 16.5”H x 8.5”W x 13”D (420.0 x 215.0 x 330.0 mm) | 15”H x 8.7”W x 11”D (381.0 x 222.0 x 280.0 mm) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 5.8 (derived from ASR thread measurement data) | 0.25 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 7.6 (derived from ASR thread measurement data) | 3.05 |
| DIY Kit | Yes | No |
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