2. speakers
  3. 192648-112139

BEST SPEAKER THAT COMES TO LIFE AT LOW LISTENING LEVELS

My system is as follows:

  1. Martin Logan 11A Impressions hybrid electrostatic speakers.
  2. Bryston 4B3 cubed power amp 300 per channel into 8 and 500 into 4.
  3. Bryston BP-19 preamp, Chord Qutest Dac & Lumin U2 mini stream.
  4. SVS subs-pair of SB-4000
  5. I listen at 55-60 dbs. Can anybody recommend a speaker with a budget of $15,000.00 per pair that sounds alive and dynamic at low listening levels. My dealer sells, Totem, Triangle and Proac.
  6. Any recommendations would be appreciated. Due to age and ear issues I can listen comfortably at 55-60 dbs and not much louder. 
  7. Thanks in advance for any help that you can provide. 
128x128kjl1065
vwfan53's avatar
vwfan53
8 posts
 

I had a similar need in my workshop. I am very happy with:

  • Speakers: 1st Generation B&W 686’s (Pushed close to the wall)
  • Amp: 1979 Yamaha CA-410 II
  • Volume: Set straight up to 5
  • Loudness: Set straight up to 5
  • Tone Controls: FLAT

I can listen to Steely Dan on this for 8hrs straight and be totally happy...

There is NO need for "Audiophile / Expensive" gear to accomplish 60-65db listening levels for all the Fletcher/Loudness/"V" shape information already listed above.

Any Yamaha w/"Loudness" solution will do, and some B&W's... :-)

marqmike
843 posts
 

It is hard to say what you like at low listening levels. I find Thiel speakers really good at low listening levels, and most other listening levels. Excellent speakers by any measure.

bobbyloans
79 posts
 

I fell in love with PBN a few years ago and never turned back. Started with a pair of used Montanas. Then after appreciating the high effort and full range sound I upgraded to the M1!5’s.  The Sensitivity of: 94dB/2.83V/1M makes these shine at any volume.  Peter builds every speaker himself with great care. Take a look. 

https://pbnaudio.com/m15-loudspeaker/

bishop148
46 posts
 

My wife left her Creative round computer speakers running quietly yesterday.

Damn, they sounded great, open and airy on female vocal. Better than my $15,000 speakers do at low volume. Go figure!

paulburnett
48 posts
 

Two changes made listening to my system at low volumes not only tolerable, but preferable: improved amplification and stereo subwoofers. Doesn't need to be super-expensive, just well matched. Vandersteen, REL could be good options. I love sealed enclosures, speakers and subs. One other factor that is a no-brainer: making your. listening environment as quiet as possible.

More to discover