Petite Performa2

Petite Performa2 replaces our original Petite Performa. Our goal with this new model was to perfect what was always revered for sonic accuracy and balance by using the latest in driver design, crossover components and cabinet detail. We believe that this new model offers a level of performance unmatched in the class of stand mount loudspeakers.

We have a personal preference for the Morel Supreme 110 tweeter. For us it is the most accurate and revealing HF unit available and is also used in our REVELATION and PARAGON models. This tweeter works flawlessly together with the revolutionary new 16cm bass/midrange driver from Morel which is at the heart of the new Petite. Carbon fibre is layered either side of Rohacell (used in helicopter blades) to create an ultra-stiff/self damped sandwich cone structure with superb technical parameters and stunning sound quality. Morel describes this driver as their flagship reference and we can 'hear' why. 'Air' around voices never heard before, pinpoint imaging, and finely layered depth of field that is seldom revealed.

Petite Performa2 has the 'traditional Image' appearance but construction is from a time-consuming build up of internal laminated sections with a resulting wall thickness of 31mm. Additional bracing creates a totally inert and sonically dead cabinet. Open-cell acoustic foam and a specific density of NZ wool is placed within the enclosures for critical acoustic damping and energy control.

The crossovers use only the best components to ensure that every piece of music reaches the drivers. Copper foil inductors, polypropylene film capacitors with pure silver leads and Mundorf non-inductive resistors are all hardwired and then connected to the drivers by OFC Supra cable from Sweden for the ultimate signal transfer. As expected of Image, we use WBT gold-plated input terminals from Germany.

Petite Performa2 is designed to be placed on rigid high mass stands, or THE STAND, our answer to correct height placement, stability and perfect aesthetics. For these speakers to perform at their best we recommend that they are positioned in free space and away from side walls and furnishings. This will ensure a well-spread soundstage and layered depth of field.

For extra bass extension or for use in larger rooms, we recommend the addition of Image MASS, a two driver bass system designed specifically for Petite Performa2. MASS is basically THE STAND with the addition of drivers, ports and inputs, plus the low-pass crossover designed to match the Petites perfectly.

The Stand

At Image we have the perfect answer to anchor the Petite Performa2 at the correct listening height with optimum stability and ultimate aesthetics.

THE STAND is a true extension of Petite, both visually and acoustically. After extensive listening we have found that the all-important frequency balance, system dynamics and detail is maintained when THE STAND is used to support this model. It is purpose built and must be ordered with Petite to ensure that the chosen veneer figures seamlessly up one side and down the other, plus down the front baffle. This attention to detail is important to us at Image.

Both Petite and THE STAND are fitted with recessed steel discs. Steel bearings (supplied) are placed between both cabinets when the system is setup. This locating system is a vital part of the overall design and serves to both mechanically isolate the enclosures plus prevent minute cabinet movement. Countless hours were spent optimizing this method of support and it has proven to be the best method when also used with our passive bass system, MASS.

THE STAND is supplied with ACCU-Base, an Image development that increases the footprint of THE STAND and adds structural stability to Petite. ACCU-Base is simply bolted on to the bottom of THE STAND before the brass floor spikes are screwed in place.

Mass

MASS is the compact floorstanding bass system designed specifically to support Petite Performa2 and extend the systems low-frequency range with authoritative, sharp and controlled bass to below 40Hz.

Like THE STAND, MASS is a true extension of Petite both visually and acoustically. It utilizes the same locating system of steel discs and bearings to support Petite, plus mechanically isolate the enclosure and prevent minute cabinet movement. MASS is supplied with ACCU-Base, an Image development that increases the footprint and adds structural stability to the PP2/MASS system.

MASS boasts two Morel 16cm DPC cone drivers with massive 75mm voice coils that work in tandem in a rigid and heavily braced rear-ported enclosure. Mechanical cabinet energy is controlled by a sand-filled cavity and NZ wool is positioned in specific high energy areas within the cabinet to absorb all internal sound energy.

Single gold-plated recessed input terminals are mounted on the cabinet rear, and hard wired directly to a high-grade low-pass passive crossover designed to acoustically match Petite Performa2. Ultra-low resistance, heavy gauge multi-strand SUPRA cable from Sweden is used to connect the crossover to the bass drivers for ultimate signal transfer.

Petite Performa2 on MASS is the perfect choice for moderate to larger listening rooms.