Aura RPM 650 components - Preview

[XHiFiX]

Boring History

The first time I heard about Aura Sound was back in the 90s when I bought a pair of their computer/multimedia speakers from Electronics Boutique (now EBgames). The set was the Aura Aspect 10 model and it was on sale for $19, so I figured it would be a decent replacement for the crappy KOSS speakers that I had. So I brought them home, plugged them into my SB card, and turned them on...I was like :wow: . I had no idea that computer speakers could sound that good.

Well, since then, I respected the Aura brand and this time I'll be able to experience their mobile audio line of speakers.

I was lucky to find this new set of Aura RPM 650 comps on eBay for under $50. They were made a few years ago and they're not the top of the line MR series, but they sure do look good...on paper and in person.

Aura RPM 650 System - First Look

Specs: Freq resp. - 30Hz to 28kHz, 50wRMS/200wPeak, 4 Ohm Impedance, 90db @ 1 watt/1 meter Sensitivity


RPM 625 Mid/Woofer Drivers

Cones made of paper pulp blended with Kevlar fibers
Santoprene surrounds
Stamped steel baskets with uniquely designed rubber/plastic magnet boot

http://img54.imageshack.us/img54/2219/img3202mz8.th.jpg (http://img54.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img3202mz8.jpg) http://img225.imageshack.us/img225/1702/img3147ua2.th.jpg (http://img225.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img3147ua2.jpg)


Optimage Tweeters

3/4" soft-domes
Neodymium magnets
Flush/swivel, surface mount options

http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/564/img3172on3.th.jpg (http://img529.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img3172on3.jpg) http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/9885/img3155am4.th.jpg (http://img529.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img3155am4.jpg)


RPMX Passive Crossovers

Bennic caps and inductors

http://img522.imageshack.us/img522/2199/img3185ki9.th.jpg (http://img522.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img3185ki9.jpg) http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/1093/img3199ik4.th.jpg (http://img300.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img3199ik4.jpg)



Full review coming soon!

† Photos may not be used without my permission.

[XHiFiX]

Installation

The Aura components will be installed IB, in the OEM locations of my '01 Toyota Celica.

http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/4663/img3338iy3.th.jpg (http://img516.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img3338iy3.jpg) http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/2652/img3298gn3.th.jpg (http://img516.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img3298gn3.jpg)

Their standard dimensions make them simple "drop-in" replacements. I used the same MDF brackets that fit another pair of 6 1/2's so there was no need for any modification. The tweeters also fit perfectly flush in the original cutouts.

I chose to install and mount the crossovers in the glove compartment.

http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/5740/img3360oo4.th.jpg (http://img341.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img3360oo4.jpg) http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/5964/img3389qi1.th.jpg (http://img59.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img3389qi1.jpg) http://img73.imageshack.us/img73/4162/img3411mi5.th.jpg (http://img73.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img3411mi5.jpg)


Testing & Conclusion

Head Unit - Kenwood eXcelon KDC-X590
Amplifier – Eclipse PA4212 130wRMS x 2 @ 4 Ohms
Audio Material – IASCA Reference CD 2005
Settings – 80Hz, 12dB/oct high pass, Tweeters at –0dB, Subs and rearfill speakers disabled

For the most part, playback was pretty smooth and even. No noticeable peaks or dips throughout the frequency range. The mid/bass region was not as ‘aggressive’ as I thought it would be, but overall sound was vibrant and the speakers were able to play loud and remain clean.

The RPM’s did a nice job with tonal accuracy. The voice of the female narrator was realistic and lively. On musical tracks, high frequencies like cymbals and high hats were sharp and crisp, slightly on the bright side. Orchestral instruments sounded true to life. Snares, kicks, and other percussion instruments were tight and snappy. There was nice low end extension but not as prominent as other speakers I’ve tested.

Overall, the Aura RPM 650’s are solid, well-rounded component speakers that have the power handling and efficiency to play loud and clear. They’re easy to install, very affordable, and they play all types of music well, without bias. Definitely a “bang for your buck”.