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stand-mount speakers for classical music

Last year's search for stand-mount speakers got scuttled by other priorities. I used the time since to optimize existing config and critically evaluate all the thingz.

> 90% of my listening is classical up to moderate dB, remaining 10% is mix of electronic, alternative and classic rock up to loud dB ( >= 12 o'clock on -dB dial).

Classical breakdown: 70% chamber/solo instrumental and vocal, 30% orchestral and opera.

Gear: Micromega M-100 int amp, Nola Boxer v1, dual Syzygy SLF870 12" 1000w subs w/ room-correction, all source material is streaming (.flac or Qobuz)

Room: challenged 3700cf L-shape with speakers centered at 7' point of a 27' head wall. Vaulted ceiling to 13', hardwood floors, some rugs.

Budget: under $5K

Grateful to hear from other standmount owners with similar listening profiles.
usery
gregm
3,405 posts
 
For classical you need dynamics, minimal phase anomalies, and naturalness -- to name a few. 
Try ATC 20s or whatever else in ATC fits your budget; also Devore (Gibbon): whatever fits your budget. The Devores are particularly important as they can play well close to their back wall. Spendor is also a contender.

There are many other choices but well above your budget: big Wilsons, Zellaton, Magico etc with the new drivers (i.e. not the ceramic ones). Regards
usery OP
131 posts
 
thanks gregm. ATC SCM19 v2 is on the short list.

If it helps the speaker fronts can be up to 3' off the headwall (Nola Boxer baffles currently at 28" from wall).
gregm
3,405 posts
 
Try to find a pair of Devores to listen to -- it doesn’t have to be their latest model. The Devores play well close to the wall, i.e. you don't lose much in terms of soundstage which is importantwhen there's a full orchestra involved (think: Mahler :) )
ATC: if you can spring for the 20 instead -- the 19 is good but the other one is significantly better; buy demo or otherwise used, the ATC after- service is good! Regards
schubert
7,386 posts
 
Totem Signature One is a real winner . Needs at least 100w a side .Spendor as well,
edcyn
1,876 posts
 
I haven't gone stereo auditioning lately, but I have to say I still love my Nola Boxers.  I have no idea what version they are, but I've had them for several years.  I run them through a Primaluna Integrated and no matter what the source may be, I can get convincing fidelity if the original recording is up to snuff.  I play a variety of acoustic instruments and I regularly go to classical concerts, and I have to say that the rendition of instrumental timbres is often convincingly accurate.  Imaging and soundstaging can be convincing, as well...if, of course, reduced in volume and size.  Bottom line, go shopping if the process pushes your button.  You might score something.  But, temporarily at least, I'm out of the game.
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