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Speakers that sound like Thiels on steroids.

I am carefully searching for replacements for my beloved Thiel CS2.3's. Only 2 problems I have with these speakers currently are that they begin to compress when peak spls rise above 108db and I would prefer about another 10hz in bass extension. My goals are transparency (can never have enough), speed (rim shots to blink for), (visceral) dynamics, focus and bass extension down to at least 27hz, coherency, top-end extension and air, and the ability to play to 110-115db without compression. Priorities are listed in order so I'll compromise on the spl first. Budget is up to 20k new or used. Best candidates I've heard so far are Wilson Watt Puppy's 7 for about 22k new. The WP's have the bass extension and the ability to play loudly with clarity but I prefer my Thiels' midrange, soundstage and focus. Overall the WP's are fine but they sound like a rich man's Thiel and for 22k I expected them to kick dirt all over my speakers (they don't). Other candidates I have not heard and am interested in are Thiel CS3.6 (or their replacements, whenever they come out) and Piega C10/C8 ltd. Speakers I have auditioned and am not interested in are B&W Sig 800's or anything else made by B&W, JMLabs Utopias and Mezzo Utopias, Revel Salons and Studios, Maggies, Proacs, Martin Logans, Thiel CS6 and CS7.2.

All suggestions are appreciated.
jazzdude
jazzdude OP
332 posts
 
The larger Thiels just don't have the air and high-frequency extension of the smaller ones. The CS7.2 and CS6 still have the unmistakeable Thiel midrange but sometimes it gets buried by the bass. The Thiel CS3.6 might just do the trick for me. I have considered adding a sub to my system but I fear a loss of transparency from the additional cabling and sub crossover network. It is still an option. I have sent Thiel and email inquiring about the SW1 but have not recieved a reply yet. Supposedly the SW1 is in production but I have not seen a single post from anyone who uses it. Can anyone recommend a first-rate sub?

My current amplification is Sim Audio Moon W-5. It has made a tremendous difference in the dynamics, speed, transparency of my system. Obviously having the right amp is essential to helping your speakers achieve their potential.

Foreverhifi2000, at the risk of sounding ignorant, what is the difference between an active speaker and hooking up a Bryston powerpack to any other speaker? I'm just not familiar with actives at all. Linn was doing a demo nearby for a dealer last night. Their featured product was Linn's active loudspeaker. I wanted to go but was unable. I think they said the speaker was 40k.
onhwy61's avatar
onhwy61
5,242 posts
 
The big advantage for active speakers is that the crossover is done at line level which allows for more accurate filter characteristics. From what you've said, the ATCs fit your criteria, but you'll need to listen carefully to its treble. It may not be as refined as the Thiels or Wilson. You also might want to consider the PMC product (distributed in North America by Bryston). With either brand, at least with their active products, you won't need a power amplifier and they should be driven with a balanced cable from a balanced preamp.
ksales
228 posts
 
The SW1 has been on the streets for at least a year. I have heard it and it is great. Obviously it would match other thiel speakers perfectly. It has a crossover control unit which is separate purchase. Check out the specs. at their web site to determine whether it would be helpful. I think the sub is definitely an answer to some the issues you have raised. The thiel sub is expensive.
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drubin
3,275 posts
 
The Thiel subwoofer has been out as a home theatre piece, but the electronics to use it propoerly in a two-channel system are not yet out, that's my understanding. When it's ready, however, the combination with the 2.3's might meet all of your needs.

Agree with recommendation to look at Dunlavy and I also wonder if the Wilson Sophia might be a candidate. It may be preferable to the W/P 7 in some respects, plus a lot cheaper.
ksales
228 posts
 
Drubin's list is pretty good. However, if you are a Thiel person and the Revels weren't the difference you were looking for I would really go to a thiel dealer and listen to the thiel sub with your or similar thiel speakers and see if that hits the spot. They will deal with you somewhat on the price.
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