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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
pkatsuleas OP
269 posts
 
Lol.  Thanks Larry, but way out of my league!  This happens quite often with posts I read.  I know, best intentions....  

Admittedly, I need to beef up on my Klipsch auditioning with low power tubes.  

I will look into the Tekton Perfect SET.  Thanks.

BTW, hooked up the Gallo 3.1 to my Jolida today and sounds very good.  Softer than the McCormack all around, but bass still very good.  Soundstage a bit deeper.  A very pleasant listen and plays louder than the Snells without distortion.  Very nice indeed!
toetapaudio
474 posts
 
Cube Nenuphar or Cube Mini Nenuphar’s.
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 


pkatsuleas OP

Suggestions for higher efficiency speakers

Interested in trying lower watt tube SET or class A amps.

Look for >90db speakers with active bass that have a nice benign load 6-8ohms with as little -phase angle possible.
That way your not taxing the SET amp with trying to do bass, which they’re not the best at doing anyway.
If you don’t mind coloration’s which sets have anyway, look at horns also

Cheers George
rockadanny
1,226 posts
 

Vlad builds the audio mirror reflection monoblocks, which may be worth
investigating

These are awesome sounding, and awesome powerful amps (rated 45-50 watts, tho can do peaks of 90-100 watts). Mine drive my 87dB speakers with authority. Granted, it helps that there are no crossovers on the mids and only an L-pad on the tweeters, and don’t dip much below 6 ohms (5.6 ohms minimum?). In case you don't go highly sensitive speakers.



pkatsuleas OP
269 posts
 
Thanks all for the suggestions.  Obviously I have a lot of homework to do.  Unfortunately, seems like the only brand I can readily audition will be the Klipsch.  Even in a big burg like Chicago.  Somewhere to start I guess.  If anyone local knows differently by all means tell me where. 

Looking forward to Axpona 2020.  Hopefully some of the suggestions will be there.  Not the best audition spaces I know....
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