This will be the first of about a million suggestion you are going to get.
You initial list is very good but very different sounding speakers. I would encourage you buy on 30 day or 60 day return policy if you can't return.
I personally like the Spendor 9.2s A LOT with your amplification. I think these would be brilliant as a floorstander as they are neutral yet deliver a big soundstage. For a floorstander, these would be my first choice.
I happen to like Spendor better than Vandersteen but that would be my second choice of this list. I am not sure I like B&W or Focal with that amplifications unless you like a very forward sound profile.
The Joseph Audios are wonderful. They aren't my favorite stand-mount in this price range but . I would be much more enthusiastic about the Raidho XT-1s with a subwoofer as they will deliver a much bigger soundstage. I would also look at my brand of speakers, the Verdant Audio Nightshade 1s. Huge soundstage and very musical.
Your choices in generally are well suited for your room.
Full disclosure. I have access to a variety of brands but am a dealer for Raidho and obviously the speakers I manufacturer. I can also get Sendor as an authorized dealer. |
Well, most know me as a Vandersteen fan here, but your list is a pretty good one. As I have said before, you really have to listen to a speaker to know if it floats your boat.
At $10K, should you buy used will give you a greater field to choose from.
In fact, instead of the Vandy Treo's, I would go with the Quatro's- then you would get the equalized bass.
And, if you like Vandersteen, then please consider planar speakers like Magnepan or Sound Labs.
Sorry to add fat to the fire, but there sooo many speakers that will make your hair stand on end.
If there is anyway to make a trek to a dealer to audition before you buy, then I would be the first to advise you to do so.
This listening process is, to me, fundamental to getting equipment that 'speaks to you'.
Bob |
OP -- I love your list. From that list, I'd be most curious about the Spendors, because I've heard speakers in that line and like them. Have heard good things about the Joseph. I've been turned off by the B&W line, but have not heard the better ones. I second the suggestion you try some Maggies. You might also really be taken by Salks, Silverline, Focal, Revel, or Legacy stuff. In my opinion, there is no substitute for listening in your own space, so if I were you, I'd consider places to audition them, and also check out what Crutchfield sells. I tried giant towers from them; 60 day trial; $20 to ship them back (they were Martin Logan ML 60s). I know there are higher end places to buy/try from, the Crutchfield's home trial policy is impossibly good. Consider: https://www.crutchfield.com/g_12000/Floor-standing-Speakers.html?tp=185&o=dhttps://www.crutchfield.com/g_37900/Bookshelf-Speakers.html?tp=186 |
Thanks.
Crutchfield does sell the Wharfedale Elysian 4, which also is of interest to me.
And believe me, I know there is no substitute for auditioning, especially in one's own room, but I will not be able to do that for this purchase.
Appreciate the responses from everyone thus far! |
Moabs and spend the change on a Technics 1200G or refurbished idler.
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What sound qualities or performance aspects do you care about most?
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I like a detailed presentation but not harsh. Vocals are important to me. Yet I want to hear decent, tight bass response as well. I occasionally play at moderately loud levels (rock).
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@gnoworyta While I’m pretty sure no one wants harsh, I think I know what you mean. I was really seeking that upper detail and for that reason, folks here encouraged me to try AMT tweeters. That lead me toward Martin Logan’s Motion series and Legacy, but now I see there are variants in Wharfdale and Elac, among others. The airy detail on the Martin Logan’s was truly jaw-dropping, but I was playing them in a room with very low ceilings (6.5 feet) and so there was a brightness there that was too aggressive. I really think that a speaker with better execution of the AMT tweeter plus taller ceilings might really have hit the magic spot you’re describing. Perhaps this one or something in their line? https://www.legacyaudio.com/products/view/focus-se/Nice profile of the maker is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AAEefnhFA3oAnd to be clear, I never listened to these because I could not get one into my home for an audition, plus, it really became clear that my ceilings were too low for them. But I did become fairly confident they'd be excellent. So, not a "fanboy" or anything, just pointing out where my research had me pointed before the ceiling problem deflected me. |
Thanks! I'll look into them... |
I have limited experience with speakers in that price range, but I have heard the Harbeth SHL5+. It sounded detailed yet very natural. The newer XD models by Harbeth are right up your alley - a little more precision than the older models but still with that magic midrange. |
Based on the description of the sound profile you like, I stand by my recco. I think you may find B&W and Focal might drift from detailed and revealing to bright and fatiguing with your amplification. Otherwise, I think you are on the right path. |
Jump on the used MAGICO A3s on audiogon ASAP!!Or Josephs Audio Perspective 2 Graphene soon both under 10k ENJOY!!! |
@verdantaudio,
+1
Though I would put the Vandy Treo's at the top of the list.
Bob |
Given what you value — and I say this as a huge JA and Vandy fan — I’d point you toward the ATC SCM40 v2 or SCM50. Their beefy dome midrange will blow you away with vocals and everything midrange like no other, and your amp has plenty of juice to let them sing. Best of luck.
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Check out the Charney Audio Companion with Voxativ 2.6 drivers. They are a full range single driver horn based on the tractrix theory. Engaging full range sound from top to bottom and vocals that will draw you in and touch your heart. I love mine and think you should seriously consider a demo. Charney is located in Somerset NJ and he is easy to get a demo from. Contact him he might have something to fit your budget. Be safe, Chris http://charneyaudio.com/ |
Thanks to all for the suggestions/input thus far. Appreciate it! Still open to any more info.
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