Suggestions for higher efficiency speakers


Interested in trying lower watt tube SET or class A amps.  After hearing about the 'magic' for years I feel it's about time I give it a listen.  But, don't think my current speakers are efficient enough (please correct me if I'm wrong about this).  I have Snell Type D at around 87 dB and Gallo 3.1 at around 88.  Not exactly inefficient but could be better.  I have used my Jolida 502 brc (60 watt) with the Snells and it sounds great.  About to try the Jolida with the newer Gallos.  I have read that they work well with tubes, eager to find out.  

Looking for suggestions for efficient speakers under $2k.  I know most horns qualify but, unfortunately, I have never been a big fan of the Klipsch sound.  Of course there are other brands to check out.  

I am in the process of researching amps right now. Seems like there are a few nice options in my lower price range.  If you want to throw a few amp suggestions out there too that's great.

Thanks!
pkatsuleas
I have Snell Type D at around 87 dB and Gallo 3.1 at around 88. Not exactly inefficient but could be better.
No- this is **exactly** what inefficient looks like (its at the upper end of inefficient- almost moderate). These are inappropriate speakers to use with an SET.

This is what you are up against: To get full bandwidth from an SET in general 7-8 watts is about the maximum before the difficulties of building a truly full-range output transformer begins to strain the idea of it being 'hifi'. Generally speaking this usually means you are limited to a 300b or the like for maximum power. Now of course there are higher powered SETs out there but usually the tradeoff is limited bass for more power because of the output transformer.
The next problem is that most SETs for good reasons don't employ feedback to minimize distortion. The result is two-fold: first this helps them have distortion at low power that is unmeasurable (the 'good reason' and the source of the 'inner detail' for which SETs are so well known). Second, distortion starts to take off at about 20-25% of full power. Initially the distortion is really only on transients which are common in music; since the ear uses higher ordered harmonics to sense sound pressure, the result is a 'dynamic' quality that other amps seem to lack. You really don't want to invoke this aspect of the amplifier! You simply won't be hearing everything it has to offer.
So the result is you need a really efficient speaker to take advantage of an SET. In smaller rooms this might be a minimum of 96-97dB 1 watt/1 meter, in a bigger room this might be 103dB minimum. And that is assuming you have 7 watts full power!
Emerald Physics KCIIs are without peer in this  price range. And they are running a special on a few pairs. Hurry, don't hesitate

Thanks for the great replies.  I've heard a few Klipsch models over the years, never interested me enough to even get the names. One was the big Cornwalls though. Impressive but wasn't my cup of tea. Granted, I have not heard any of their newer celebrated models. I will be checking them out.  Have only heard older JBL stuff and, again, not for me.  The A170s are only $419 on amazon right now.  They do look nice and Herb was almost gushing.  At 89 dB not exactly sensitive.  

Tekton is certainly on my list to hear.  Zu Audio is another one definitely on my list. I recently just missed a used local pair of Dirty Weekends. I admit I have trouble pulling the trigger on speakers without hearing them first. Or anything for that matter. But there are almost none around for audition, or on the used market. Might have to get over it and just place an order. 

Very interested in open baffle types like Spatial.  Especially after hearing the Vinnie Rossi open baffle prototypes at Axpona - one of my show favorites.  But, alas, there is the budget to keep in mind!

The recent purchase of a HSU sub has expanded my reach to monitors as well so will be trying some asap.

I may try some higher powered tube gear with my existing speakers. Rogue Audio comes to mind. Would like to experiment with bi-amping as well. There is a used Cary CAD-280SA V12 that looks interesting. Has triode and ultralinear modes - 50/100w. Not exactly SET....  Also local is a pair of CAD-300SE Signature monos at 15 w. I can probably get them home for an audition. Have to start somewhere and always wanted some Cary gear! When I first started in this hobby 20 yrs or so ago a local dealer carried some nice Cary stuff that kinda blew my mind.

Thanks atmasphere for the detailed info - just what I need!

Kind of all over the place, I know. Just looking at options and suggestions from the community and building some short lists. Finally able to get some funds together and having a good time swapping and experimenting!

Thanks again!


I was Cary dealer in the early 90's and had the CAD-300SE mono's in house. These are great amps and wish I still had them. They where paired with AudioVector speakers.