What Hi Fi Sound and Vision
16 AUG 2006
Mission m30i Cinema
At its hefty price, rivals have undermined it. Worth considering if you can hunt out a good deal
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Even on first listen, it’s clear this is a proper Mission package, from its pacy, punchy midrange to its deft handling of complex rhythms. Compared to some rivals – not to mention past Missions – it’s also poised and balanced, benefiting considerably from the upgrades to the internal wiring and the crossover, giving a more open, detailed midband and a smoother presentation.
Music sounds expressive, articulate and just plain fun: the m30is convey Razorlight’s youthful energy as well as they reveal the tremulous, heartfelt intent of Neil Young’s vocals. The same speakers are used for the rear left/right channels, so it’s no surprise that they open up surround effects with ease.
System lacks real punch
However, the centre channel and subwoofer are this system’s undoing. The sub was once perfectly acceptable in this class, but beside more recent rivals, it lacks the drive and energy to relay the dramatic explosions in V for Vendetta.
Meanwhile, the m3Ci centre speaker, though designed to be easy to install in a TV cabinet, is less full-sounding and expressive than the best. The result is a subtle change in tonality as sounds move across the front three speakers – just enough to destroy the illusion.
Now don’t get us wrong: there’s still much to admire here. However, team the Mission’s slight sonic weaknesses with its hefty price-tag and, capable as it still is, it’s no longer the class-leading package.
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