Looking for Speaker Recommendations


Hi,

I am getting a new system and am looking for speaker recommendations. I will have a ma8950 and will, at least initially, be streaming exclusively. Focal and B & W are too bright and fatiguing. Wilson SabrinaX are good except for the price. Any thoughts? Thanks.

wast314

I don’t like to recommend brands because it sounds biased but your lost of speakers was underwhelming to me.

I think BBC speakers would be a good choice as well as Dynaudio. I tested and listened to about 10 different speakers a while ago, and none of them impressed me aside from Totems, in addition to the above. But it’s unique to everyone’s ears.

 

I agree with everyone who says "take your time" it will be fun to find the right components

@wast314 

I am interested to see what you buy.  We have similar music tastes and your no list of speaker is the same/similar to me.  I am likely going with a Benchmark DAC3 (has switching and volume control).  The Benchmark amp (I can easily pick up a second).  But, man the speakers are tough aren't they.  I listed to the SabrinaX and it was amazing.  Probably better then my room and ears can make use of for the money.  It is hard to find demos without traveling.  Please keep us updated as your look and listen so I can check out what you like.    

Listen to as many speakers as possible. I prefer silk dome tweeters - B&W, Focal and others can irritate my ears after long listening sessions. Devore Super Nines are speakers that really impressed me when hearing a Boulder integrated amp. 
 

The speakers will then help you determine options for power. I’ve owned and enjoyed McIntosh and there are equally impressive tub e (ARC) and solid state options (I like Moon). 

OP I would suggest that the Bryston/Focal combo is going to be as harsh as it gets.   I would change one thing at time, and see how you like the results.  Luxman or Accuphase integrated will get you the meters you like with far better results.  Luxman does have headphone jack also.  

As for speakers if I was looking for a 180 degree shift from Focal in a bigger brand I would look at SF and Wilson, maybe Magico if budget allows.  I would like to hear Harbeth in this scenario also.  

My two favorite affordable systems at AXPONA this year are highly recommended for the OP-

1) The new Luxman 507Z amplifier paired with Harbeth M30.2 XD speakers. Wow what a smooth luxurious high end sound !

2) For something with more snap the Audio Note system with Cobra integrated amp and AN-E D Hemp speakers was outstanding.