SPX-177R vs. new SPX-17REF?

[mikey7182]

Just checking to see if anyone has actually bought/installed/listened to a set of the new SPX-17REF and if they are better/on par with last year's 177Rs... I have done searches on here and sounddomain, etc and have not found much info on the REFs. I know about the 177As and 177Rs. Just trying to get a feel for the new ones. Knowing that the SPX-17PRO is coming out, I was a bit curious if the new 17REFs are maybe a bit subpar to the 177Rs as the 17PROs will obviously be better? If that makes sense... it would seem that maybe the REFs would be between last years Type R and Type X and the new Type X Pro would be the flagship line this year, that would be improved over the 177Rs. Wow I think even I AM confused! lol Feedback welcome.

-Mike

[Gary S]

I think the crossover on the old set had a lot more settings... which were unnecessary in my opinion. I would think you could find a good closeout deal on the old.

The Pro's will be better... and make Alpine more money.

[JoeHemi57]

I have some spx-17ref's for sale bnib if you want to try them.

[mikey7182]

Well I've found the 177Rs online various places as low as about $190 shipped... I know they used to go for about $220-$240 shipped on ebay when they came out. But at the same time, the 17REFs are going for the same price, which leads me to believe they may not be as high quality. Typically when new stuff comes out it is hard to get (with Alpine anyway from what I've noticed) so demand hikes up the prices. When the SPX-177As first came out they were like $250 plus shipping for the set! Not sure if production costs are coming down or if they speakers just aren't as good anymore. This is my dilemma. ****!

[Echo42987]

I personally like the sound and looks of the newer ones.

-Nick-

[OlogyAudio]

Alpine using XBL^2? News to me.

[WhoSayWho?]

Alpine using XBL^2? News to me.

I think it's all a big hoax. Does anyone know if the new Type X is available yet in these United States?


Edit: My bad, I guess the REF's are but not the PRO's.

[mikey7182]

I ended up going with a set of Boston Pro60s. Didn't want the REFs and couldn't wait around forever for the 17PROs to come out...