Passive speakers for desktop
I haven't found any good articles or experiences online about having passive speakers on a desktop. Currently that's my space where I can kind of go crazy when it comes to audio gear without having to get wife approval. However, being on a desk means there's obviously limitations.
So far I've used cheap stuff like logitech, bose, creative, audioengine, etc. Then I got some Paradigm Atoms and Onix Ref 1's back in college. Next upgrade was the Dynaudio Focus 110's which were pretty great when it comes to the sound that came out of that small speaker. I currently own the SB Acoustic ARA which bring everything up a notch. I'm borrowing my friend's BMRs and the presentation is very different. It throws a wide soundstage with a little softer imaging compared to the ARA but it could be due to the width limitation between the speakers.
Does anyone have any recommendations for what I can upgrade to? It seems like having passive speakers on a desk is quite niche. Most people who go deeper into a desk setup tend to go active but I'd like to stay passive.
Current setup - Audiobyte Hydra Z - PS Audio DSD - Bel Canto Pre3 - AVA DVA M225 - SB Acoustic ARA
Some options I came across were the Qln Prestige One and Borresson Z1. I'm hoping to stay under the $10k range for my last pair of speakers in this setup.
...and I'll stick with my bookshelf omnis' *S* Since I've got the only pair in existence that I'm aware of (diy), and "are not available at any retail store!" like the late-night ads tout, y'all will just have to be jealous or dismissive.... ;) I like my headphones too, but it's just not the same... |
@barts Yes, the speakers will be next to a computer monitor. My desk is in a 15x15' room in one of the corners currently. I could sit further away but 99% of the time I'll be sitting at the desk using the computer. |
Another potential option (smartly recommended by another member here whose name I can’t recall so I can’t take the credit) would be to set up the system with the speakers straddling the corner opposite where your desk is located (Jeff Joseph did this to great effect when he was demonstrating his Pulsars in an impossibly small NYC hotel room at a show I attended). This way you still get to enjoy the sound while working without the placement restrictions, and when you wanna do more critical listening you just turn your chair around and there you are! Would seem to be a potential “best of all worlds” type approach. Just yet something else to ponder FWIW. |
