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High-Efficiency Single Driver Speaker System

For those of you who have gone to the 'Dark-side'---a high-efficiency single driver system and never looked back, I'd like to get your feedback on two specific things: 1)What type of music do you mostly listen to, and 2)What do you find are the most appealing characteristics that you find lacking in more traditional lower efficient, high power amplifier-based system. I currently have a custom EL34 JWN customized amp rated around 35-45 watts and I'm thinking about going this route.
a_passion
nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,810 posts
 
There's a pair of Tonian Labs TL-D8.1S for sale here on A'gon with the PHY drivers that just might suit you. http://app.audiogon.com/listings/full-range-tonian-acoustic-tl-d-8-1s-with-phy-hp-drivers-like-new-2014-02-11-speakers-30087
I have the TL-D1s which use the Fostex wideband driver and would jump on these in a heartbeat if I had the money. I've heard the 12" PHY version and just melted away.

Tonian Labs no longer works with PHY-HP which would make them very scarce and hard to secure.
Might be worth a look.

All the best,
Nonoise
sksos1
387 posts
 
There is such a HUGE difference between the 8" and 12" PHY driver IMO that I'd wait for the 12" to come-up if you can.

Like Tonian Labs we also don't work any longer with PHY (Ocellia).

(Dealer disclaimer)
a_passion OP
20 posts
 
Thanks for looking out. I'll check out the listing.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
I've always wanted to hear the PHY 12" driver speaker given its stellar reputation for beautiful sound. I wonder why Tonian Labs would discontinue its use? Now the only option apparently is the Ocellia speaker which is likely different sounding then the Tonian.
Charles,
nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,810 posts
 
Sksos1, Thanks for pointing out that there's a distinct difference in the sound of the 8" PHY driver compared to the 12". I thought there'd be a "house sound" to PHY drivers and that the 8" would be a step up from the Fostex drivers used in my TL-D1s.
I"d hate to be the one to steer someone in the wrong direction.

All the best,
Nonoise
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