Which LS3/5a?

I first heard the LS3/5a (the first, 15 ohm version) when I lived in London in 1979 and was much enchanted with the sound, though I didn't buy a pair.   Fast forward to 2022, and I was considering a set of the current Falcons -- I just didn't have enough faith to buy a pair of the used originals, especially at their current prices, as things do age, and there is always the question of who did what to them during the past 40+ years.

However, I ended up stumbling across a mint pair of year-old Spendor 4/5s that I got at a great price -- $1,500 instead of the $2,800 list price.  They have all the magic of the original LS3/5a speakers, but with far superior bass and dynamic range.  If I was limited to a single pair of small bookshelves, I wouldn't hesitate to base my only system around these.

Mlsstl,

Did you get the opportunity to compare the Spendor4/5's with a ls3/5a?

@bobheinatz  -- not directly, but having heard various versions of the LS3/5a over the years, there is no doubt in my mind that the new Spendor has the same wonderful midrange of the LS3/5a plus the advantages mentioned above.  So, count me a happy camper.

That said, I know that others may reach a different conclusion. Sometimes the lure of owning a pure version of a legendary classic is simply too great to ignore. That's a decision each person must reach on their own.

Agreeing with Missti on the Spendor Classic 4/5’s. Just got a pair and very pleased.

I have an extensive collection of LS3/5a monitors. IMHO the very limited Falcon KINGSWOOD WARREN EDITION is the best, and not by a small margin! For vintage examples, I still favor the CHARTWELL only if in great condition. I also like the warmer balance of the Graham LS3/5 with the partnered Graham passive subwoofers, but it does lower the impedance with the subs. So for lower powered tubes, the monitors alone are preferable. It’s been a love affair since my first Rogers 15 ohm in the late 1970’s!