When it came to the bass, it was as robust as one could expect from a pair of 6.5-inch woofers in a virtually free-air (a volume of air larger than the VAS of the speaker) application such as my oversized enclosures. The attack of the kick drum was quick, but the fundamental lacked fullness. However, they didn't sound completely hollow like several other comparable systems. So, yeah, you will still want a subwoofer to fill the lowest bass notes even though the Morels make a great attempt at reaching them.Score: 9/10
Conclusion
The Morel Integra Ovation XO 6 reminds me of the Porsche Cayenne GTS. From a physical point of view they don't appear as a high-performance player in standard terms. Yet, challenge them and they will surprise any naysayer by shattering their assumptions. But like purchasing any Porsche, you just need to go in to buy Morels with high expectations.
Case in point, the Morel Integra Ovation XO 6 performed with the makings of a great audiophile system. The more I listened to them, the more I enjoyed them for their superb tonal quality, excellent low-frequency response and clarity. They retail for a cool $600, placing them in the company of moderately priced component systems, but they're worth every penny. Start saving now.
| INSTALLATION |
| Points Possible | Morel Integra Ovation XO 6 |
| Ease of Installation (mounting diameter/depth, etc.) | 10 | 6.5 |
| Flexibility (installation accessories, crossover adjust, etc.) | 10 | 5 |
| Manual | 10 | 5 |
| SUBJECTIVE SCORE CHART |
| Points Possible | Morel integra Ovation XO 6 |
| Overall sound quality | 20 | 17 |
| Soundstage presentation | 10 | 8.5 |
| Image stability | 10 | 8 |
| Tonal balance (above 80Hz) | 10 | 9 |
| Low-frequency extension | 10 | 9 |
| Clarity at low volume | 10 | 9 |
| Clarity at high volume | 10 | 8 |
| Off-axis response (referenced to on-axis) | 10 | 7 |
| Listening fatigue (moderate volume) | 10 | 8.5 |
| Total sound score | 100 | 85 |