This transparent approach continued seamlessly into the midrange and treble. The frequency response seemed as though measured by spirit level so completely free of deviations like a classic studio monitor. But is such a description even valid? There are after all different kinds of monitors. My work boxes are Harbeth 30.2 XD which sound quite different especially in the midrange and treble. While the GGNTKT perform with a rather objective precise sound and can if necessary pinpoint flaws, the Harbeth sound milder overall and particularly more subdued in the HF. This serves a purpose because just as hifi enthusiasts have different needs and tastes, so do sound engineers. One places more emphasis on every minute detail, another appreciates a slightly smoother presentation for hours of stress-free work. One needs plenty of power to mix electronica and big productions, another prefers a focus on the midrange when it comes to classical or jazz and doesn't need undistorted max SPL. There really is no perfect monitor. What does this mean for the GGNTKT? They don't gloss over anything in the midrange or treble. If during a studio production the drummer's click track on the headphones bled into an overhead microphone, you'll hear it immediately.
With the Harbeth you'd only notice if already aware. Here again the M1 was very reminiscent of the Genelec or even a Horn Acoustic Ferria (~€11K/pr), proving itself priced absolutely correct. If a few guitar strings buzz here and there as they do in the new Tom Odell A Wonderful Life recorded live to tape without overdubs, it's an integral part of the music, not an afterthought as it is with many other speakers. It's nuances like these which contribute significantly to the live experience; the real deal. I also must emphasize that despite its analytical approach, the Model M1 never got thin or bleached; quite the opposite. The GGNTKT expressed an extensive rich colour palette across the midrange, just without coloration. The treble was alert, fresh and more agile than silky smooth. It didn't feel overemphasized yet still tended to be slightly brighter than my Harbeth tuned more sweet than strictly neutral but certainly not with the slight over-presence of certain compact B&W. The M1 exhibits a characteristically detailed direct approach across midrange and treble that's not overly smooth or velvety but by no means harsh or sharp. But if your listening preferences lean towards triodes + widebanders, the ‘fast' tonally neutral GGNTKT will probably sound a bit too direct and unembellished. Vocals and especially acoustic instruments present with clear presence so in case of doubt more like in midday sun than candlelight but far removed from the bad-old fluorescent tube to drop another euro into the metaphorical jar. I liked that for creating a very clear feeling of truly being there.
Following a tonal approach almost Swiss in its neutrality, the soundstage followed suit to neither inflate nor compress. The sonic imagery began on the baseline and largely reflected how the sound engineers must have intended during the mix. Some speakers conjure up a slightly larger soundstage. The smallest Harbeth P3ESR XD come to mind. Competitors like the Ksdigital C5-Reference offer somewhat limited vertical imaging. The GGNTKT strikes a perfect balance to render claustrophobic productions like "The Fall of Cashline" by Prolapse from I Wonder When They're Going to Destroy Your Face which feels mixed just prior to mono with tight definition while a more expansive track ("You and your friend” by Dire Straits) creates a truly infinite expanse. Here the GGNTKT proved to be a valid high-quality work tool without interfering in soundscapes as an interior designer. Two things are worth mentioning: the very clean realistic rendering of centrally placed images usually vocals; and the pleasingly wide sweet spot. One can sit off axis on the sofa with a loved one and still enjoy a clear stereo image. The M1 excelled at localizing individual sound sources, presenting a clear and coherent soundstage. However, it fell short on depth. I know speakers which offer even more in this regard, for example the sound|kaos Vox 3A (€13K/pr) which assuming proper placement, almost create the impression that my room's front wall has been obliterated.
Though the GGNTKT Model M1 won't perform Frédéric Chopin's "Minute Waltz" in 58 seconds, it certainly has the potential. This speaker is anything but staid, sleepy or understated. Each note places precisely. This is no surprise when several technologies contribute to dynamics and speed, from the electronics to the compression driver and its waveguide. The whole thing is truly enjoyable. Sudden orchestral tutti in Mahler symphonies burst from pianissimo so quickly that your hairs stand on end with delight. During rapid 16th-note runs with sharp mixture pipes on the church organ or shimmering sizzle cymbals, the air literally vibrates. Even considering the price range that's exceptionally good. And of course we'd expect first-class microdynamics. Quiet artifacts like the way someone moves their hand around the guitar neck or the 'chick' sound of a hi-hat being struck as in the more measured pieces by early Bohren & der Club of Gore render with absolute immediacy and accuracy. And since we're on the subject of subtlety and to some extent volume: I found the GGNTKT best at around room volume and above as that's where their lively character shines. They're not exactly for whisper sessions. Obviously this exceptional loudspeaker won't be everyone's cuppa. And it doesn't mean to be. The GGNTKT isn't a euphonic cuddly bear but behaves like a sophisticated dynamic PA system adapted to the living room. A more live atmosphere is hardly conceivable considering all inherent artifacts. Atmospheric details and level fluctuations, even manufacturing defects, don't mask but convey in vibrant lifelike qualities. If you're looking to laze about reading philosophy books or sunk into your armchair lost in thought while listening to music, the Model M1 might not be the best choice. However, if you want a truly energizing unadulterated listening experience in a room up to ~30m², the GGNTKT is a top choice in its class. Furthermore, manufacturing quality and workmanship are beyond reproach and the numerous customization options do the rest to make the Model M1 something very special indeed.
GGNTKT Model M1 psych profile…
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