ATC active vs. passive


Recently had a chance to hear ATC SCM 40 and was very impressed with exceptional midrange, top end detail,  accuracy and near perfect timbre. 

Would like to get a bigger ATC but nowhere to audition in the Northeast. 

What can I expect from a bigger ATC SCM50 and up. 

Active vs. passive ? I have good amplification, Push pull 100W amp and SET 50w. 

 

ei001h

@ei001h 

Do your SCM 40s have tweeters that sat "ATC" engaged right in the metal flange around them?  If it doesn't, these are the older SEAS tweeters used in the SCM40 Mk1's , while the newer SCM 40 Mk2's use the ATC hand made tweeter introduced in 2017-2018 or so. Now ATC is using only their own tweeter in everything

Brad.       

I have the scm40 MK2 version. Still lacking to my ears compared to Triangle Magellan. I know ATC SCM50 and above have a superior tweeter just not sure how much of an upgrade it will be. 

@ei001h 

What speaker cables are you using and what power cord for your 595? Had that amp 2x and it’s pretty sensitive to power cords. Top end can can trimmed to your tastes pretty easily. 

On my SCM40 I am using Audience Front Row and a DPS 4.1 power cord. Seems to be excellent synergy between the moon 761 power amp and speakers. I have no issues with treble and think the top end is detailed and refined sounding.

I did notice a difference, for the better, when I used DH labs silver jumpers. I am running the jumpers between the teeter and woofer (using the stock plates for now to mid) and I do the AudioQuest recommended way of connecting the speaker cables across the binding posts. 

Lastly, how many hours are on your SCM40’s?

cheers

Speaker cables : 

1. analysis plus solo crystal oval 8 

2. nordost hemidal 2

power cord 

1. Analysis plus  Ultimate power oval 

2 analysis plus power oval 10 

 

stock jumpers 

scm40 has 500h

 

 

I used to have  Analysis Plus full loom (same speaker cables you have) and found it clouded the soundstage. Eventually moved to Purist audio and Nordost for power which was a step in right direction for opening up. Not a fan of AP for power cords on any component. Totally different system, but I think you have many options of tweaking the top end to your expectations. I have found the ATCs to be a very neutral reference. 

Had Heimdall 2 on my Harbeth shl5+XD and found the sound too warm, almost muffled sounding at times.  Audience Au24 sx was much better.