Opinions regarding JMlab Alto Be?

it's very hard to ignore the price. I liked the Altos a lot. They didn't blow me out of the water. Maybe if they had more bass extension? For $17k, I want bass without a sub. I think they are overpriced, like all of their Utopia line. Also, their tweeter (upper end) is great, but it's not the best out their. They'll have you believe that. They are excellent marketers of their products. The audiophooishly naive will believe that berrylium is the only way to go. It's toxic to work with, and that makes it expensive. Don't get me wrong, I loved the Altos. I want more than love for $17k. Man, if I had the room (lots of room) and the money for the necessary quality (huge wattage) power, I'd go for the big Maggies in a jiff. You'd save $5k. peace, warren

I have been listening to the JM Utopia for the last three years.I have not had any of the problems you mentioned.The key to the Utopia good sound is the right amplifier.I have settled on the Gryphon Antileon Signature the Boulder amp is a good match as well.You can buy on audiogon the JM Utopias for a fraction of the original price,and there are currently some big Gryphons on sale.

You simply must look at the Revel Ultima line. The Studios and Salons are amazingly neutral and they have full range capability. I have an awesome front end (modded Denon 2900, SS output stage) with, in my opinion, the best preamp and amps (Thor Audio's equipment). Its magic.

Getting back to the speakers, I listened to a lot of speakers, but I really don't think there is better bang for the buck than Revel's line of speakers. They really aren't too room dependent, and the imaging, neutrality and clarity of the design is mindboggling too.

With that said, they are not "musical". They are neutral.

I would strongly recommend you listen to a lot more speakers before you plunk down your cash - listen more then let your ears guide you would be my $0.02

You seem to be drawn to the high advertising lines so far. Just an observation. Perhaps it is an availability thing. I dunno. Not that any of those are bad necessarily, but JM and Dynaudio are not my personal cup of tea to be sure. I think you can get a LOT more musical at a lot less money. Of course you have to fund those gorgeous ads... =P Frankly, even ignoring price I would (and consistently have) looked elsewhere...

On your list the Sophias are capable of some magic in the right setup, though I know that is a VERY contentious statement around here. I've heard it once though (one setup out of 4 now for the sophias - and that was with Classe Omegas).

Jtinn - Surprised to see you approve of JM actually. Your lines otherwise cream JM in almost every parameter IMO... and they don't seem to fit in with your general musical sensibilities. Hope it doesn't appear otherwise - I don't mean to single out your comments, particularly since you and I have consistently shared more opinions than not over the years (and several thoughtful conversations). Rather, I am inquiring for precisely that reason. Hmmm... Just struck me as odd.

Good luck!
Jacob

Jacob,

Thanks for your remarks ...

What other brands or particular speaker models would you strongly recommend ? What lines does Jtinn carry that would cream JMlab.

Thanks for your help.