Eclipse is renowned for its strikingly egg-shaped speakers. The clever folk at Eclipse wring out the very best and the most they can from a single full-range driver per cabinet. Recently, the TD510Mk2 has been entertaining us at GadgetyNews HQ.
We have slowly been working our way up the Eclipse food-chain. Now we find ourselves at the TD510Mk2, just below the astounding, top-of-the-range TD712zMk2.
As you may have guessed, the TD510Mk2 are larger than the TD508Mk3 we reviewed most recently. Those we found lost a little oomph in the lower regions at some points. Will their larger sibling do better in our modestly-sized room?
Eclipse TD510 Mk2 design
The TD510 Mk2 very much follow the same design concept and aesthetic as their other speakers.
So, without labouring the point, each cabinet is made from two synthetic parts joined around the middle.
The TD510 are equipped with the 10cm fibre-glass drivers seated in the front section of the ‘egg’.
Around the rear is where you’ll find the speakerposts and a bass port.
The TD510Mk2 didn’t come with grilles so this means I felt like I was being watched. All. The. Time.
It took a while for my girlfriend to get used to their never-blinking stare. Granted, I didn’t help matters by playing Jeff Wayne’s ‘War of the Worlds’ through them. However, she now loves how they look.
The adjustable desk stands of the TD510Mk2 suits the aesthetics of the speakers. The bundled Allen keys allows you to alter the angles of the speakers. You can even mount the speakers on a wall, or even on a ceiling. Please make sure your walls/ceiling can take the weight. These tip the scales at 9.5Kg each. Also, they measure 255×391×381mm (WxHxD).
Eclipse TD510Mk2 performance
For the purpose of this review I had to balance the TD510Mk2 on my usual stands. Not ideal. I did ask if there was any chance of borrowing the Eclipse stands. The response was that the stands I have seen are integral to the practically identical, yet taller, twins the TD510z. I have also seen the pricing of the floorstanding Z model.
The speakers are quoted as having a frequency response of 42Hz-22kHz (-10dB). Being rear ported I took some time in getting them a decent distance from the wall. Also, with my previous Eclipse experience, I ensured that they were toed-in a little more severely than I would my usual speakers.
Taking the time to get the positioning right is really rewarding. I think this goes especially with these speakers as they are quite focused.
Sound quality
Eclipse really work on the pace and timing of their speakers. I am pleased to say that the TD510Mk2 is no exception.
Naturally, with a single driver of this size, the treble and upper mid-range are amazingly agile and sweet. Thankfully, the bass is also instantly more present than it was from the 8cm drivers of the smaller versions.
Firstly, dropping the needle on Robin Trower’s ‘Bridge of Sighs’ LP brought both warmth and clarity. The band all had their own area and vocals had both presence and expression.
A Perfect Circle’s ‘Package’ on CD is one of my favourites for its opening bass salvo. It rumbles through tautly but without annoying the guitars.
Back to black plastic and Leftfield’s recent re-release of ‘Leftism’. Bass is still potent but there is only so much even the clever folk at Eclipse can manage.
Yes, it is swift, direct and clear, however, you are never going to be able to achieve earth-moving sub bass from a 10cm driver that is covering everything.
It is still a very enjoyable listen and not really being a bass hunter, they are pretty good for me. That said, I can’t help but feel I am still missing something from some tracks.
I guess this is why Eclipse offers a sub woofer unit too. I would suggest that you look at adding that as well if your room is of a decent size. For my little London living room, the TD510Mk2 just about do the trick.
Eclipse TD510Mk2 review conclusion
The Eclipse TD510Mk2 possesses a lot of the enjoyable traits the smaller eggy speakers have. They have amazing timing and an entertaining clarity. I really do have a soft spot for Eclipse units.
For most music, no matter the source, the TD510Mk2 prove to be adaptable. Yes, they do need a shove from the amp. Also, as well as loving to be driven, the speakers are quite directional. That said, with a little time spent at getting them positioned, they will not fail to impress.
If you are looking for something other than another boring box but still value timing, accuracy and clarity, I urge you to take the TD510Mk2 for a test drive. Also, see if they’ll throw in the TD520SW sub for good measure.