2. speakers
  3. 192895-18996

speaker upgrade fever

I'm considering a speaker upgrade to compliment my Aesthetix Mimas integrated. Currently, I've got KEF Ref 1 monitors paired with (2) REL S/3 subs. Must stay away from bright, analytical and clinical presentation. Room size 12'x19'. Music is jazz, acoustic Americana, Chamber, symphonic etc. 

Looking at the ProAc K1, Triangle Duetto and the DeVore o/baby. Also, a huge departure, Vandersteen Treo CT, floor standers. I understand Vandersteen pairs well with the Mimas.

Always open to suggestions, happy to buy quality used and demo.

Budget, ~$8-$11K

larseand
zlone
756 posts
 

Following with interest as I have KEF Reference 1’s myself and am thinking about upgrades. Our music tastes align as well. I honestly think that they will be tough to beat. 
 

Just to clarify, reading your post, I don’t think you are saying that the KEF’s are bright, only that you want to stay away from bright speakers to replace them. Am I correct?

larseand OP
68 posts
 

Zlone, you are spot on! I'm looking to move up the chain and want to stay away the bright side... I actually don't think the KEF is overly bright.

Off topic, I owned a pair of Focal electra 1028be floor standers, even with the beryllium tweeters, it was too bright for me. I know that Focal has that reputation, but I was still surprised. This the downside of being 4-5 hours away from an old fashioned audio shop and not being able to A/B anything before pulling the trigger...

wsrrsw's avatar
wsrrsw
1,078 posts
 

???Room treated????

Sonus Faber, Tanny's or maybe Khorns?

 

avanti1960
1,500 posts
 

@larseand

The Dynaudio Contour 30i will give you what you seek. Huge sound, super smooth and never fatiguing or analytical.

 

FYI I am not a fan of the KEF REF 1 ! 

tomic601's avatar
tomic601
13,018 posts
 

The Treo are easy to setup. Wringing the last bit out of most speakers rewards attention to detail. Leica or Bosch laser are essential tools in the kit.

Have fun. Enjoy the music.

More to discover