Press Release:
Slim and elegant the APEX Loudspeaker is a floor standing model with integral stand producing big speaker sound.
It is a natural development from the EDEN and incorporates all the advanced features contained in our small loudspeakers. Hybrid transmission line bass loading has been adopted to produce the deep bass reproduction of the APEX.
A wide range of amplifiers can be used to drive the APEX, from simple integrated models to the most advanced for active mode operation. Using the electronic crossover associated with the amplifiers allows each loudspeaker drive unit to be driven directly by the output stage of these amplifiers giving an improvement in sound quality that is immediately apparent.
High quality veneers have been chosen for these loudspeakers which will compliment your home and enhance your enjoyment.
Hi-Fi Choice mentions the following regarding the Apex:
[Lab: Average+/Sound: Good] Not the smoothest sound around, it more than compensate with an impressively communicative and informative musical presentation.
Hi-Fi Choice – Directory, Sept 1991
Specifications:-
| Royd Apex | |
|---|---|
| Year of Release | 1989 |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 200mm x 825mm x 300mm |
| Recommend Amplifier Power | 20 to 60 Watts |
| Sensitivity | 90 dB 1 watt @ 1 metre |
| Power Handling | 80 watts |
| Nominal Impedance | 8 ohms |
| Drive Units | 5" cast chassis bass/mid range unit, 19mm Scan Speak dome tweeter with secondary chamber |
| Crossover Frequency | 3 KHz |
| Bass Resonance Frequency | |
| Frequency Range | 35 Hz to 20KHz |
| Port(s) | Rear |
| Terminals | Single, bi-wire (with mod) or active bi-wire. |
| Finishes | Black Ash or Walnut Veneer |
| Weight | 33 Kg |
Price guide: The Apex are very rare, brand new in 1989 they cost £485. Today expect to pay between £150-200. However a nice pair fetched £250 on ebay April ’09. Also überphon had some N.O.S. Apex a while ago priced at £1395.
Note: The Rega Ela Mk1’s have the same drivers as the Royd Apex and share much of the same design. Later Rega Ela’s used Rega’s own RR125 driver. This later Rega version was tweaked for mass production, but built to the same spec. These RR125 drivers are still available from Rega, and I’m told that if one specifies them for the Ela Mk1, Rega will trim the chassis surround and drill 8 screw holes so they will fit the older Ela Mk1’s and thus the Apex (and probably other Royds).
Unpacking, setup and connecting instructions can be found here. Including information on bi-wiring setup (both passive and active).
Reviews