Mirage Nanosat 5.1
Manufacturer: Klipsch Part number: Nanosat 5.1
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- Mirage's gorgeous Nanosat 5.1 Home Theater System may be small, but it produces a huge, room-filling sound for music and movies.
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CNET editors' review
Mirage Nanosat 5.1 price range: $356.19 - $599.00
- Reviewed by: Steve Guttenberg
- Edited by: Jeff Bakalar
- Reviewed on: 03/24/2009
- Released on: 09/15/2008
The good: Compact and attractive 5.1 channel home theater speaker package with 8-inch powered subwoofer; omnipolar technology produces remarkably spacious sound; extra satellites are available.
The bad: The satellites imaging isn't as precisely focused as box speakers'; the sound may be too diffused for some tastes.
The bottom line: Mirage's gorgeous Nanosat 5.1 Home Theater System may be small, but it produces a huge, room-filling sound for music and movies.
It's safe to say that the Mirage Nanosat 5.1 Home Theater sounds unlike any box-type satellite/subwoofer combination system on the market. While conventional box speakers project sound forward, the Nanosat speakers are designed to produce a ratio of 30 percent direct and 70 percent reflected sound. The direct sound heads straight to the listener, while the other 70 percent is bounced off walls and the ceiling before finally reaching the listener. Mirage introduced this sort of omnidirectional technology--what the company dubs Omnipolar--in 2002 with the original Omnisat speaker. We recently raved about another Omnipolar Mirage system, the MX 5.1 Home Theater System ($1,200), but the new Nanosat 5.1 features larger satellites and a larger subwoofer. Incredibly, the larger system comes with a significantly smaller price tag at only $800. Even better, the $800 system sounds even better than the $1,200 one.
Design and features
The Nanosat 5.1 system comes with five satellite speakers and a subwoofer. The system doesn't include a dedicated center channel speaker; instead you get five identical satellites, which produce a better surround experience than a system with dedicated front, center, and surround speakers. Each Nanosat speaker is 5.8 inches tall and weighs 2.9 pounds.
Conventional box speakers have drivers mounted on their front baffles and project sound forward. The Nanosat 2.75-inch titanium/ polypropylene mid-bass driver and 0.75-inch pure titanium hybrid dome tweeter are mounted on the speaker's top-angled baffle. Top mounting isn't the only factor responsible for the MX's omnidirectional dispersion, as the speakers feature an Omniguide module, which has two deflectors itself. One tiny curved deflector is positioned over the tweeter, and the other is mounted atop the midbass driver's deflector. The deflectors project sound directly toward the listener, all while creating a 360-degree radiation pattern that reflects sound off your room's walls, ceilings, and other surfaces.
The Nanosat speaker's dome-shape perforated metal grille is covered in black cloth. Instead of pins or clips, the grille is magnetically attached to the speaker, which lets it easily snap into place when reattached.
We think the pod-shape Nanosat has more of an upscale look and feel than the black plastic satellites we found in the MX system. The matte black, molded-plastic cabinet and brushed aluminum is a much more attractive design. In terms of connections, the Nanosat speakers are fitted with gold-plated binding-post connectors that accept banana plugs, spades, pins, or stripped-bare wire ends.
Each of the five satellites comes premounted with a metal swivel wall bracket. Should you want to mount the rear-surround channel speakers higher than 6 feet off the floor, Mirage recommends mounting the speakers upside down. That way, they project sound down and out. If you're not going to wall- or shelf-mount them, you may want to use the optional Mirage MS-STB-1 floorstands.
If you wish to run a 6.1 or 7.1 channel system, extra Nanosat satellite speakers are available for around $125 each. If you already have a subwoofer, you can buy the five-speaker Nanosat bundle for $550. Meanwhile, the five-speaker Nanosat Prestige system includes a dedicated center speaker.
The Mirage S8 subwoofer has a down-firing 8-inch woofer and built-in 75-watt (300-watt peak) amplifier. The medium-density fiberboard cabinet is rather plain, but the smoothly rounded edges and satin black-painted finish are a nice touch. Connectivity is limited to just stereo line-level RCA inputs and stereo spring-clip speaker-level connectors.
The subwoofer is 11.7 inches high by 13.5 inches wide by 13.5 inches deep, and weighs 20.1 pounds. It's well built, but doesn't have the inert feel of the MM-6 sub that comes with the much smaller MX 5.1 system.
We'd recommend using the Nanosat 5.1 system with a receiver that allows for adjustable subwoofer crossover settings (some receivers are fixed at 80 or 100 Hartz). Mirage doesn't offer a specific crossover setting, so we set ours to 120 Hz.
Performance
With the room lights turned off, the system's five satellites literally disappear as sources of sound. With conventional box speakers, you can always tell where the sound is coming from, but this isn't the case with the Nanosat speakers. Their sound bouncing/reflecting technology creates a truly immersive, room-filling sound. In the midsize CNET listening room, we certainly didn't feel the need to use a 7.1 channel array to complete the front-to-back, wraparound soundstage.
That said, some listeners may find that the system's imaging lacks focus. For one, it's softer than the Definitive Technology ProCinema 800 satellite/subwoofer system--a unit in which imaging can be pinpoint specific.
Watching the "From The Basement" music DVD, we found the sound quality to be well above average. When Sonic Youth performed a couple of tunes, we not only heard the sound of the instruments, but also the band actually filling the "basement" they were performing in. The three channels in front of us produced remarkable depth and dimension. This was even more apparent with PJ Harvey's quieter acoustic music.
Action films didn't deter our delight with the system, as the bellowing and car-tossing antics in "King Kong" had plenty of oomph. We attribute some of that to the Nanosat 5.1 system's spot-on satellite and subwoofer blend. Not once could we hear the subwoofer as a separate sound source. While the system's tonal balance is on the warm side of neutral, it handily avoids the thin, cool sound we've heard from some of the smaller systems in the past.
We enjoyed listening to the system in stereo, but like the smaller Mirage MX 5.1 system, the speakers don't do such a great job localizing stereo images. Phantom center sounds, such as vocals, played out rather vague. That said, we did find the stereo image width spread wider than the actual locations of the left and right front speakers. Also, we found that the larger Nanosat system sounds better than the smaller MX system when played at higher volumes.
The Mirage Nanosat 5.1 system really shines with its surround-sound performance. The way it creates an immersive, wraparound soundstage can't be replicated by similarly priced box speaker systems. In addition, the Nanosat 5.1 has a sweet, refined sound that's easy to listen to over extended periods of time.
For the money, the Mirage Nanosat 5.1 is one of the best "lifestyle" satellite/subwoofer systems we've heard. While it's a steal at $800, those looking for small-but-great-sounding 5.1 systems should also check out the Energy Take Classic, which is available for just $400. Just don't expect it to replicate the omnidirectional sound of the Nanosat.
User reviews
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Great speakers for the size
by msquared70 on November 1, 2011
Pros: Immersive sound
Rich tones
Great priceCons: The Mirage 5.1 system uses the standard satellite for the center channel.With some movies the center channel speaker is a bit weak. You might consider upgrading to their dedicated center speaker.
Summary: Not sure where the one bad egg review came from.. but I just purchased these speakers a few weeks ago along with a Marantz receiver and love them.
I have ...Summary: Not sure where the one bad egg review came from.. but I just purchased these speakers a few weeks ago along with a Marantz receiver and love them.
I have been researching surround speakers for several years.. waiting to make the plunge when I needed a new TV. Well that day came so I decided to add surround sound to my 46" sony 3D tv.
I came across these speakers by accident 3 years ago and have been researching other comparable systems during that time. In the end I ended up with the Mirage speakers. You should hear these with the new Pirates of the Caribbean soundtrack.. wow.
While researching speakers I stopped in the big yellow box store and demo'd several systems. There are some good alternatives out there. One thing I found was that the Mirages were often neglected in the showroom- not setup properly or weren't' featured with their subwoofer. This makes a huge difference.
For a small to medium room. I don't think you can go wrong with these. -
Worst speakers I've ever heard.
by raywkirk on July 31, 2011
Pros: Cheap, small
Cons: Sound horrible
Summary: Can't believe the good reviews. If you doubt me, just go and listen to them. Compare them to any bookshelf in the world, like the Energy Take, Klipsch, Pioneer, ...
Summary: Can't believe the good reviews. If you doubt me, just go and listen to them. Compare them to any bookshelf in the world, like the Energy Take, Klipsch, Pioneer, etc. HUGE difference. The Nano's have a very tinny high end, and the midrange is so muddy that it's quite difficult to understand a female vocalist. As for orchestrals, forget it.
I rarely take the time to write reviews or comments, but in this case the VAST difference between the positive reviews and my actual listening experience motivates me to warn others. Judge for yourself. But DON'T buy them without comparing them with others in an actual, in-person listening test. -
Fantastic, distinctive speakers
by dneedle1 on April 16, 2011
Pros: Room filling sound. No clear dead spots. Excellent surround effects. I often turn my head when watching a program because sound appears to come from within my apartment, even though I know better.
Cons: I would not expect these to be a good choice for a center channel speaker-- I bought one separately based on what I read in other reviews. They took some time to "warm up" to optimal sound.
Summary: I have a 7.1 system which I bought along with a new 55 inch 3D tv and the Yamaha RX v-667 receiver late last year. I am in LOVE ...
Summary: I have a 7.1 system which I bought along with a new 55 inch 3D tv and the Yamaha RX v-667 receiver late last year. I am in LOVE with the sound. I am not a sophisticated audophile, however to me the sound is simply incredible. I am in an apartment with a modest (17X12) living room, and these babies sure fill the room with sound, and with effects. Be patient at the beginning-- at first I was disappointed in my fancy sound system, but as the speakers/receiver "broke in," my delight grew. I do recommend listening to them first at a big box, because the sound is slightly different than traditional speakers.
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FANTASTIC PRODUCT!
by waldron80 on November 10, 2010
Pros: Beautiful and clean sound. The aesthetics are different but then become way cool to the eye.
Cons: The NANO S8 sub I feel was very weak and I replaced this with something that had a lot more power. An 8inch sub with 80 watts I feel is just not enough. Especially for me.
Also, I'm not too much of a fan of having such a small center speaker.Summary: I'm consider my self some what of an audio enthusiast and reviewed and listened to a lot of different satellite speakers. For the price, and search around, you can'...
Summary: I'm consider my self some what of an audio enthusiast and reviewed and listened to a lot of different satellite speakers. For the price, and search around, you can't go wrong. I spent $500 on vanns.com.
The sound stage is great. Once you enjoy the omni directional sound you won't want to go back.
I knocked off 1/2 a star because the sub was weak. For most it may be fine.
I'm a little particular about my sound so I've upgraded my sub to something a lot better and also upgraded my center channel to the Mirage OS3-CC and use my extra speaker for 6.1.
Can't go wrong. Buy it! -
Bad customer service.
by nkgupta50 on March 11, 2010
Pros: Not knowing too much about speaker technology, I read some reviews and thought I was buying good product at a reasonable price. I am not sure anymore if this is true.
Cons: I can understand that things some times do go bad. The real test for the company is how they handle the customer when that happens. My experience with this company in comparison to other tech. companies in the market is the worst so far.
Summary: Sub woofer started making thunderous noises within 4 months. When I complained, they told me to bring it to their authorized service center. Service center told me that it will ...
Summary: Sub woofer started making thunderous noises within 4 months. When I complained, they told me to bring it to their authorized service center. Service center told me that it will be fixed in 2 weeks and they will call me. After 21/2 weeks when I got tired of waiting I called. The service center told me that Mirage did not send them the parts. I called Mirage, they told me that the service center did not follow their procedure. They also told me that in any case it takes them 6-8 weeks to repair their products under warranty. I think this is rather long time to make good on a product for which the customer just paid you full price.
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So good I keep recommending them!!
by McKendrick on January 21, 2010
Pros: Fantastic, quality sound
Solid build quality
In any of the various decoding modes from a quality source, the sound of the venue requires very little imagination. Just close your eyes
They disappear into the room.Cons: Were it in my budget, I might have gone for the full-sized Omnisats to fill up the mid-range a bit, but I have absolutely no regrets whatsoever with these speakers
Summary: When using them for background music in "multi-channel stereo", several times people have commented on the quality of the sound from "those 3 little speakers by the TV" without realizing ...
Summary: When using them for background music in "multi-channel stereo", several times people have commented on the quality of the sound from "those 3 little speakers by the TV" without realizing there were 4 more they hadn't even seen.
I love them. I've had them for about 4 years now, and am just as happy, if not happier, than I was when I bought them. I love the size of the sound field they give. It makes the surround-sound experience much more enjoyable from various listening positions since my home theater and living room are one and the same. My setup wouldn't work well if there were just one chair in the center of the room that got the full effect of immersive sound.
If you can, BUY THESE SPEAKERS. -
You cannot beat this set for the money
by govtmule1 on December 24, 2009
Pros: Crisp highs, deep lows with a Polk 10" subwoofer, unbelievable sound with movies and music
Cons: None found
Summary: I have had Bose, Klipsch speakers and neither can compare to this system. Flat out the best speaker system under $1000
Summary: I have had Bose, Klipsch speakers and neither can compare to this system. Flat out the best speaker system under $1000
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Klipsch
- Part number: Nanosat 5.1
- Description: Fantastically small, fantastically sounding - that's what Klipsch's Nanosat 5.1 home theater system is all about. In fact, it's your ticket to a sold out concert or movie premiere without having to leave the comforts of home. Whether you want to relax with a good flick or host a movie screening for your friends and family, the award-winning Nanosat 5.1 home theater system delivers immense performances from tiny, contemporary cabinets that blend in beautifully with your decor and lifestyle. You'll also discover this speaker setup easily fits anywhere and in any type of environment. It features a classy brushed black aluminum finish on the satellites and a satin finish on the subwoofer, making it a welcomed addition to your room. Furthermore, the satellites come with endless placement possibilities. The unobtrusive, yet extremely powerful, subwoofer can be neatly tucked away in a corner out of direct view. Adaptable and versatile, the Nanosat 5.1 is truly unique. Sure, there are other small speaker packages out there, but none that look and sound as amazing as this one. In fact, after experiencing its immersive 360º sound, you'll immediately dub traditional designs passe. Whether you're listening to mellow music or watching an action-packed flick, Klipsch's compact Nanosat 5.1 home theater system, with its modern materials and unique miniature technology, brings your entertainment full circle. Each satellite employs a powerful 2.75-inch titanium deposit polypropylene cone woofer for amazing bass performance and a 0.75-inch pure titanium hybrid tweeter for warm, rich high frequencies. The 75-watt RMS powered subwoofer with an 8-inch driver blends seamlessly with the satellites, adding a level of low-frequency performance you can hear and feel. But what really separates this system from the rest is a patented Omniguide module, an ingenious design that involves two deflectors, employed on all five satellites. While one deflector rests on top of each speaker's tweeter, the tweeter itself is housed in a deflector, suspended over the woofer. These combined elements distribute sound directly towards the listener, as well as reflect it off walls, ceilings and other surfaces - resulting in a perfect 360º soundstage. More importantly, you'll hear the same enveloping performances from anywhere in your room.
General
- Product Type Home theater speaker system
- Speakers included Subwoofer,
5 speakers Speaker Features
- Speaker Type Active subwoofer, passive satellites
- Woofer size (inches) 0.75 in,
2.75 in - Recommended Amplifier Power 10 - 100 Watt
- Magnetic Shield Yes
- Connectivity Technology Wired
- Additional Features Omnipolar technology
Speaker Details
- Features 5 x Satellite speaker - 2-way - 110 - 20000 Hz - 8 Ohm - Wired,
1 x Subwoofer - 75 Watt - Wired - Driver Details Satellite speaker : 1 x Tweeter driver - 0.75 in - Pure titanium hybrid (PTH),
Satellite speaker : 1 x Midrange driver - 2.75 in - Polypropylene titanium deposite hybrid - Driver Details Subwoofer : 1 x Subwoofer driver - 8"
Manufacturer info
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Klipsch products on Shopper.com
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- Manufacturer:Klipsch
- Address:
3502 Woodview Trace, Indianapolis, IN 46268 - Phone: 1-800-554-7724
- Fax: 317-860-9195
