New speaker technology vs. Old speaker tech???


The following is an issue that many members may have encountered: that is, buying an old speaker (vintage 10-12 years old) vs buying a newer and more current technology created by better driver material and using for example a ribbon tweeter, vs traditional silk or aluminum tweeter.

A friend recently purchased a monitor made by Monitor Audio, GX-50 Gold series. which uses a ribbon tweeter. His other choice was a VonSchweikert VR-1, a two way small monitor hailed by many reviewer for its tight bass almost down to 40-45HZ.

I liked the Monitor Audio GX-50, but did not want to influence his final decision. However, the more I listened to them, they sounded somewhat bright and edgy on several "redbook" CD's. He liked VonSchweikert VR-1, they seemed to him more balanced and the bass had real punch. However, he opted for the MA's because he felt the newer technology overall would be more competitive in producing good and detailed sound

Like my friend, I have often get caught up by the technology of new speakers,and ignore what sounds better and satisfying regardless of the music The VR-1 are very good speakers, and usually don't last long on Audiogon when they come around for sale. However, sometimes a mystique emerges around a speaker because of its unexpected performance that elevates it beyond its spec.

Would like to get some input on this "dilemma", especially the reputation of Von Schweikert VR-1 for being "more than sum of its parts"

sunnyjim
But I heard some brightness issue on the tweeter with Ryan R610? Also it looks a bit bigger than a normal bookshelf speakers? Recently I also eyeing on Spatial Audio Hologram M3, it is cheaper and available in Malaysia too, it resonates down to 32hz...pretty amazing, but I have to audition first if possible...
I heard the speakers in their room at the show. They were not bright, some of these amateur reviewers....jeez.

I have no affiliation at all, dont own their products nor do I know them personally other than their courtesies extended while in their room: they are superb speakers, the pricing is well below what one expect.
Looks like Hifisoundguy is off the Bose bandwagon and on to something different. I guess progress is indeed being made......

Shakey
I have loudspeakers from the 1920s up some with the most modern transducers available. Some of the older has amazing sound qualities and with a few upgrades can do great service today. While we have greatly advanced materials and computer design we also tossed out some of the musical connection that bonds one to the art of music. Some of the older designs had far more resources used in development something you will not see anymore. Alot of what is available today in speaker systems are under sized over priced under built and requiring massive power thus leading to thermal compression do to VC heating. This causes listening fatigue. Why so many only listen to such systems for a short time.