Reviews

Review: Raidho TD 2.2 Floorstanding Loudspeaker

October 3, 2023
Review: Raidho TD 2.2 Floorstanding Loudspeaker-The Raidho TD 2.2 loudspeaker combines impeccable craftsmanship with exceptional sound quality, making it a premium choice for audiophiles seeking sonic excellence.

Introduction:

In March of 2022, we introduced the compact yet fascinating Raidho XT-1 loudspeaker, albeit a tad belatedly due to its remarkable performance despite its size and price tag of 6,400 euros. Raidho made waves at the HIGH-END event later that year with their colossal flagship, the RD6, commanding a staggering 210,000 euros. The Raidho TD 2.2, the focus of this review, positions itself between these two extremes with a base price starting at 40,000 euros. As a Danish creation, it carries the legacy of a nation known for its pride, craftsmanship, and contributions to audio technology, attempting to stand as a modern spearhead in loudspeaker development.

The technical data

Raidho TD 2.2
Concept:2.5-way floorstanding speaker with bass reflex support
Equipment:HT: Raidho ribbon, MT: 1 x 16.5 cm, TT: 1 x 16.5 cm
Efficiency (2.83 V/m):84.4dB
Maximum level (duration / short-term)100/112dB
Min. amplifier power for continuous maximum level:>150 watts (4 ohms)
Dimensions (W x H x D):32.0 x 115.0 x 52.0 cm
Weight:45.0 kilos

Build Quality and Design:

The Raidho TD 2.2 distinguishes itself with a graceful design and impeccable craftsmanship that combines various materials. The baffle comprises three metal modules, each housing a driver firmly connected to the cabinet. This design enhances aesthetics and minimizes resonance, as metal exhibits less twisting compared to common MDF materials. Attention to detail extends to the speaker’s feet, capturing the meticulously constructed crossover on the base plate. Raidho’s commitment to quality is evident, as they design and manufacture every driver in-house, ensuring no compromises on performance. The TD 2.2 features a ribbon tweeter, two bass/midrange drivers, and a 2.5-way crossover with a classic bass reflex port on the rear, delivering elegance and substance in its construction.

The build quality and design of the Raidho TD 2.2 loudspeaker are nothing short of exceptional, reflecting Raidho’s commitment to aesthetics and acoustic performance.

Build Quality: Raidho’s dedication to craftsmanship is immediately evident in the TD 2.2’s construction. The loudspeaker boasts meticulous attention to detail and the use of high-quality materials, ensuring its longevity and performance.

  1. Metal Baffle: The baffle, which holds the drivers, comprises three metal modules. This design adds to the speaker’s visual appeal and minimizes resonances. Unlike the commonly used MDF, metal is less prone to twisting, contributing to a more rigid and vibration-free structure.
  2. Custom-Made Drivers: Raidho takes pride in manufacturing its drivers in-house rather than opting for off-the-shelf components. This approach allows for precise control over driver design and quality, resulting in drivers tailored to the speaker’s specific requirements.
  3. Diamond and Tantalum Membranes: The speaker’s woofers and midrange drivers feature membranes dusted with diamond particles on ceramic, aluminum, and tantalum bases. Tantalum, a rare and high-capacity material, is employed in capacitors for its exceptional properties. This combination of materials contributes to the drivers’ stiffness and lightness, which is crucial for accurate sound reproduction.
  4. Neodymium Drive: Raidho incorporates a large-format neodymium drive on the back of the speaker. Neodymium is known for its strength and magnetic properties, making it suitable for optimizing driver performance.

Design: The Raidho TD 2.2 boasts a design that marries elegance with functional excellence.

  1. Graceful Aesthetics: The loudspeaker exhibits a graceful and visually pleasing design that can seamlessly integrate into various interior settings. Its form reflects Raidho’s commitment to creating products that are as much works of art as they are audio devices.
  2. Compact Floor-Standing Profile: While larger than the compact XT-1 model and smaller than the flagship RD6, the TD 2.2 strikes a balance in size. It can fit comfortably in most listening rooms without overwhelming the space.
  3. Ribbon Tweeter: One of the standout design features is the ribbon tweeter, a hallmark of Raidho speakers. Handcrafted in-house, this tweeter employs a unique mix of materials and precise manufacturing techniques to deliver an exceptional high-frequency response. Its design includes a depression that widens the tweeter’s beam angle for enhanced energy delivery to the listening position.
  4. Resonance Control: The use of metal in the baffle and a sturdy connection to the housing helps minimize resonances, ensuring that the speaker produces clean and accurate sound.

In summary, the Raidho TD 2.2’s build quality and design are a testament to Raidho’s dedication to audio excellence and aesthetics. It combines premium materials, expert craftsmanship, and an elegant design to deliver a speaker that not only sounds exceptional but also enhances the visual appeal of any listening space.

Comparison with Competitors:

In the realm of high-end loudspeakers, the Raidho TD 2.2 finds itself in a league of its own, bridging the gap between compact yet powerful options and the stratospheric heights of flagship models. Its competitors are few and far between, making direct comparisons challenging. However, its distinctive characteristics set it apart. While some may argue for a warmer and smoother sound signature, the Raidho TD 2.2 opts for a more dynamic and detailed approach, demanding the listener’s full attention. It excels in reproducing subtle nuances in music, offering a front-row experience that is both direct and engaging. When compared to its German counterpart, the Borg, known for its harmonious and relaxed sound, the TD 2.2 stands out with its emphasis on precision, speed, and clarity. The TD 2.2 doesn’t compromise on power and dynamism, making it a compelling choice for those seeking both refinement and excitement in their audio experience.

Usability:

The Raidho TD 2.2 proves its mettle when it comes to usability, delivering a continuous level of precisely 100 dB and the capability to reach up to 112 dB during dynamic musical passages. This makes it a versatile performer suitable for a normal listening room of up to 40 square meters, where it offers ample reserves. Its impedance consistently remains above 4.7 ohms and maintains linearity in phase, ensuring compatibility with a variety of amplifiers. While it may not be the most suitable match for low-wattage tube amplifiers, its electrical behavior is unlikely to overwhelm any amplifier, offering flexibility in system pairing.

The usability of the Raidho TD 2.2 loudspeaker is characterized by its flexibility and adaptability to various listening environments and preferences. While it demands attention and a discerning ear, it offers a user-friendly experience in terms of placement, amplifier compatibility, and overall setup.

  1. Placement Versatility: The TD 2.2 is well-suited for a range of room sizes, making it adaptable to both compact listening spaces and larger home theaters. Its bass response, designed without any peaks, allows for flexible placement options, including near the rear wall. This versatility ensures that users can enjoy the speaker’s exceptional sound quality without the need for extensive room treatments.
  2. Amplifier Compatibility: While the TD 2.2 may benefit from high-quality amplifiers, it doesn’t demand exorbitant power or specialized equipment. It exhibits a consistent impedance that stays above 4.7 ohms, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of amplifiers. This user-friendly characteristic allows audiophiles to pair the speaker with amplifiers that suit their preferences and budget.
  3. Ease of Setup: Setting up the Raidho TD 2.2 is a straightforward process. The speaker’s compact floor-standing design simplifies placement decisions, and its bass reflex opening on the back adds to its ease of use. Whether placed in a dedicated listening room or integrated into a multi-purpose living space, the TD 2.2 offers a hassle-free setup experience that caters to various user needs.

In conclusion, the Raidho TD 2.2 excels in usability by providing audiophiles with a speaker that is versatile in placement, compatible with a range of amplifiers, and easy to set up. While it demands a discerning ear to fully appreciate its capabilities, it offers flexibility and adaptability that enhance the overall listening experience. Whether you’re an experienced audiophile or a newcomer to high-end audio, the TD 2.2 offers a user-friendly path to exceptional sound quality.

Technical Excellence:

The Raidho TD 2.2’s technical prowess extends beyond its elegant design and craftsmanship. Its ribbon tweeter, painstakingly handmade in-house, sets a new standard for distortion-free high-frequency performance. The ribbon tweeter’s film, composed of a mix of plastic and metal, is an astonishing 11 microns thin, weighing a mere 20 milligrams. This delicate yet robust design defies industrial mass production conventions and remains unfazed even at high sound levels. The two bass/midrange drivers boast precision engineering, with membranes dusted with diamond particles on a base of ceramic, aluminum, and tantalum. Tantalum, a rare and high-capacity material, is used in capacitors when exceptional performance is required. The Raidho TD 2.2 is a testament to consistency, combining craftsmanship and cutting-edge materials to deliver a speaker that is both aural and visual artistry.

Practical Features:

The Raidho TD 2.2 impresses not only with its technical excellence but also with its practical features. Its elegant and slim form factor, coupled with the option of a walnut finish or custom colors, allows it to seamlessly blend into various living spaces. The choice of a 2.5-way crossover, in addition to the classic bass reflex port on the rear, adds versatility to its performance. It accommodates placement near the rear wall without compromising its neutral tuning, making it a practical choice for different room configurations. The Raidho TD 2.2’s flexibility extends to its amplifier compatibility, with a wide range of amplifiers capable of driving it effectively. The attention to detail in its construction, from the resonance-minimizing metal baffle to the meticulous placement of components in the crossover, ensures that practicality is not sacrificed in pursuit of performance.

Listening Experience (Sound Quality and Sound Test):

The Raidho TD 2.2 offers a listening experience that is nothing short of captivating. Initially, it impresses with its finesse, transparency, and charmingly unobtrusive sound. However, it swiftly reveals its dynamic capabilities, effortlessly delivering loud and spirited performances. The speaker shines in reproducing intricate details in music, creating a vivid presence of live instruments at the edge of the stage. It demands the listener’s full attention and refuses to fade into the background. Its ribbon tweeter, a standout feature, elevates the soundstage with exceptional clarity and precision, even at high volumes. Whether tackling jazz with pulsating rhythms or rock with intense dynamics, the Raidho TD 2.2 excels in delivering a fatigue-free, engaging, and dynamic sound that leaves a lasting impression. It achieves the rare feat of maintaining register balance across all octaves, enriching the listening experience with nuanced and harmonious timbres.

The listening experience with the Raidho TD 2.2 is a journey into the realm of exquisite sound quality and an exhilarating sound test that leaves a profound impression. From the moment you hit play, it becomes apparent that this loudspeaker is not your run-of-the-mill audio equipment; it is an instrument of sonic artistry.

At first encounter, the TD 2.2 displays a remarkable finesse that immediately draws you in. Its transparency and precision are striking, allowing the nuances of the music to unfold with clarity and grace. It effortlessly handles subtle details, creating a sense of intimacy and immersion in the music. Whether it’s the delicate plucking of strings, the subtle resonance of a piano, or the breathy nuances of a vocalist, the Raidho TD 2.2 unveils them with an exquisite finesse that elevates the listening experience.

However, what truly sets the TD 2.2 apart is its dynamic prowess. It possesses the ability to transition from the serene to the powerful seamlessly. As the music crescendos, the TD 2.2 steps up to the challenge, delivering a dynamic range that can be both thrilling and emotionally engaging. It brings the listener closer to the heart of the performance, capturing the full spectrum of human expression in music.

The speaker’s ribbon tweeter, a hallmark of Raidho’s craftsmanship, is a standout feature. It adds a level of precision and airiness to the soundstage that is simply captivating. Even at high volume levels, the tweeter remains resolute, free from distortion, and continues to deliver a level of detail that is both impressive and immersive.

The TD 2.2’s ability to maintain register balance across all octaves is a testament to its exceptional design and engineering. This means that whether you’re listening to the deep resonance of a double bass or the soaring highs of a soprano, the TD 2.2 maintains a harmonious and coherent presentation that enriches the musical experience.

In practical terms, the TD 2.2 proves to be a versatile loudspeaker. It can handle a wide range of musical genres with finesse, whether it’s the pulsating rhythms of jazz or the intense dynamics of rock. It manages to deliver a sound that is both engaging and fatigue-free, ensuring that long listening sessions are a pleasure rather than a chore.

In conclusion, the listening experience with the Raidho TD 2.2 is nothing short of exceptional. It combines finesse, precision, and dynamic prowess to create a sonic journey that is both captivating and emotionally resonant. This loudspeaker has the ability to transport you into the heart of the music, revealing the subtleties and power of each note and instrument. Whether you’re a discerning audiophile or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of music, the Raidho TD 2.2 offers a listening experience that is truly remarkable and unforgettable.

Reasons to Buy/Not Buy:

For those seeking a harmonious and dynamic loudspeaker that can effortlessly balance finesse and power, the Raidho TD 2.2 is an enticing choice. Its technical excellence, meticulous craftsmanship, and engaging sound quality make it a standout performer in its class. However, potential buyers should consider their room size, amplifier compatibility, and preference for a speaker that demands attention and engagement. While the TD 2.2’s price may be appropriate given its exceptional performance and craftsmanship, it remains an investment that warrants careful consideration.

Reasons to Buy the Raidho TD 2.2:

  1. Exquisite Sound Quality: The TD 2.2 offers an exceptional listening experience with precision, transparency, and dynamic prowess. It captures the nuances of music with finesse, making it a perfect choice for audiophiles seeking top-tier sound quality.
  2. Dynamic Range: This loudspeaker can effortlessly transition between quiet and powerful passages in music, providing an engaging and emotionally immersive experience. It excels in reproducing the full spectrum of musical expression.
  3. Ribbon Tweeter: The Raidho-typical ribbon tweeter adds detail and airiness to the truly captivating soundstage. Even at high volumes, it remains distortion-free, enhancing the overall listening experience.
  4. Versatility: The TD 2.2 can handle various music genres with finesse, from jazz to rock. It ensures fatigue-free listening, making it suitable for long listening sessions.
  5. Craftsmanship and Materials: Raidho takes pride in designing and manufacturing its drivers, ensuring the highest quality. Premium materials and meticulous craftsmanship are used in every aspect of the speaker’s construction.

Reasons Not to Buy the Raidho TD 2.2:

  1. Price: The TD 2.2 comes with a premium price tag, which may be out of reach for budget-conscious buyers. Its exceptional sound quality and craftsmanship are reflected in its cost.
  2. Space Requirements: While suitable for most listening rooms, the TD 2.2 is not the most compact floor-standing speaker, and it may require adequate space for optimal placement.
  3. Amplifier Compatibility: While not overly demanding, the TD 2.2 benefits from amplifiers with more power. Those with lower-powered amplifiers might not unlock its full potential.
  4. Personal Sound Preferences: Sound preferences vary among listeners. Some may prefer a warmer or more laid-back sound signature, which the TD 2.2, with its precision and dynamic character, may not cater to.
  5. Availability: Raidho’s products may not be widely available in all regions, making it challenging for some potential buyers to audition or purchase them.

Ultimately, the decision to buy the Raidho TD 2.2 depends on individual preferences, budget considerations, and the desire for an uncompromising listening experience. It offers exceptional sound quality and craftsmanship for those who prioritize audio excellence.

Conclusion:

In summary, the Raidho TD 2.2 is one of the most harmonious and captivating loudspeakers in recent memory. Its dynamic and engaging sound quality matches its elegant design and meticulous construction. While it may not be for those seeking a background audio companion, it excels in delivering a front-row listening experience that is both precise and powerful. The TD 2.2’s ability to effortlessly handle various music genres, from jazz to rock, is a testament to its versatility. While it commands a significant price, it offers knowledge, craftsmanship, and research from Europe that ensures its enduring appeal for years to come, making it a worthwhile investment for discerning audio enthusiasts.

Advantages of the Raidho TD 2.2 Loudspeaker:

  1. Exceptional Sound Quality: One of the standout advantages of the Raidho TD 2.2 is its remarkable sound quality. It delivers a finely detailed, transparent, and dynamic audio experience that brings music to life. The precise timing and register balancing make it suitable for a wide range of music genres.
  2. Flexible Placement: The TD 2.2’s versatile design allows for flexible placement in various room sizes and configurations. Its well-behaved bass response, without peaks, makes it adaptable to different listening environments, whether in a dedicated listening room or a multi-purpose living space.
  3. High-Quality Craftsmanship: Raidho takes pride in its craftsmanship, and it shows in the TD 2.2. The speaker boasts impeccable build quality and attention to detail. The use of premium materials, including metal modules for the baffle, contributes to its durability and resonance control.
  4. Amplifier Compatibility: The TD 2.2 is compatible with a wide range of amplifiers, thanks to its consistent impedance that never falls below 4.7 ohms. This compatibility allows users to choose amplifiers that match their preferences and budget without the need for specialized equipment.
  5. Elegant Design: With its graceful and elegant design, the TD 2.2 not only sounds exceptional but also looks the part. Its aesthetics make it a visually pleasing addition to any listening space, appealing to both audiophiles and design enthusiasts.

Disadvantages of the Raidho TD 2.2 Loudspeaker:

  1. High Price Tag: One of the significant drawbacks of the TD 2.2 is its high cost. With a base price starting at 39,500 euros (and higher for special finishes), it places itself in the premium, luxury segment of the loudspeaker market, which may be inaccessible for many potential buyers.
  2. Limited Bass Depth: While the TD 2.2 offers agile and well-defined bass, it may not satisfy those looking for extremely deep bass extension. For listeners who crave the lowest frequencies, additional subwoofers may be necessary.
  3. Demands Attention: This loudspeaker is not designed to be a background audio component. It demands the listener’s full attention and engagement due to its detailed and dynamic sound. Some users may prefer speakers that are more forgiving for casual listening.
  4. Not Ideal for Small Budgets: The TD 2.2’s premium pricing places it out of reach for many consumers with limited budgets. It caters to a niche market of high-end audio enthusiasts who are willing to invest significantly in their audio systems.
  5. Requires Quality Source Material: To fully appreciate the TD 2.2’s capabilities, high-quality source material is essential. Lower-quality recordings may highlight imperfections in the audio, potentially detracting from the overall listening experience.

In summary, the Raidho TD 2.2 offers exceptional sound quality, flexible placement options, and high-quality craftsmanship but comes with a premium price tag that may be prohibitive for some buyers. Its detailed and demanding sound may not suit all listening preferences, and it requires quality source material to shine.

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