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What's your favorite boutique speaker maker

Seeing a few discussions recently about Fritz made me curious about what other artisan speaker shops are out there. 

I'll cast my vote for Louis at Omega Speakers in CT. His high efficiency full range Alnico drivers, impeccable craftsmanship and very reasonable prices make a compelling option. I've had some very nice speakers over the years but these put a smile on my face like no others could. My search is over. 

No affiliation with him, here's a link to the ones he built for me the beginning of this year. 
https://www.instagram.com/p/B7RE-f7JiW6/
treynolds155
lightnin's avatar
lightnin
22 posts
 
Generation 4s by Watkins Stereo
They are made in Kingsport, TN by Mr Bill Watkins Jr. Bill and his father, now passed away, have been building speakers for over 40 years. Bill Sr said he couldn't build a better speaker than the Gen 4s. Amazing sound for the price. 
tk21
238 posts
 
I, too, wondered about what defines "boutique".
Janszen qualifies if we're referring to factors such as small production numbers, products built-to-order, distinctive design features, and direct involvement of the owner/CEO in the production and sales processes. Oh, and relatively high prices. $5K (or so) and up?

Janszen offers 30-day trials and only sells direct.  I don't think Devore offers in-home trials (or maybe it depends on the dealer).

richopp
760 posts
 
I don't know if you would consider them exactly "boutique" since they have been around so long, but Magnepan makes actual speakers.  The rest are having fun, I am sure, but if you want to hear only what you put into a transducer, try them.

Cheers!
ebm
9,311 posts
 
MAGICO Q3s,M2s,M3s and M6s the best.
jayctoy's avatar
jayctoy
4,147 posts
 
Treynold , the alnico are great speakers, musically transparent, the 3i do have PRAT characteristics, tubes is the way to go on most omega speakers.
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