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Many speakers with dual tweeters produce a flat sound, but in the PN-4421 and the other Platine Noiree speakers, the tweeters cover only the very highest audio frequencies, so the sound remains full and natural. (Click image to enlarge)

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Hoping to improve the system’s surround-sound stamina, I replace the PN-1411s with a pair of PN-2421 surround speakers. The PN-2421 provides more bass and reproduces loud sounds more capably; I find it a worthwhile improvement. I am initially excited to discover that Earthquake bills the PN-2421 as a dipole surround speaker, meaning it uses dual woofers and tweeters to create an enveloping, diffuse surround-sound effect. However, I learn that only the tweeters are wired for a dipolar effect. As a result, only very high-frequency sounds (i.e., those above the range of the human voice) enjoy the benefit of the dipole effect.

Given the available options—and the PN-4521’s stunning looks—I would use PN-4521 towers as surround speakers in lieu of the PN-1411 or the PN-2421. Earthquake should produce a more substantial surround speaker to complement the towers. The Platine Noiree line truly merits such attention.

While I doubt Platine Noiree will inspire the longing that a Porsche arouses, I expect Earthquake’s speakers to find many devoted fans among both audio enthusiasts and design mavens.

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