Infinity Epsilon/ Beta speakers-- Classsics???

First, many thanks to those who responded. In my original post on this thread, I meant to ask about the newer model Sigma(vintage 1997) and how it compared to the Epsilon, or other high end speakers of today. I never was a big fan of Infinity speakers, but these models seem to be much different. Therefore, any one familiar with the sound quality of the Sigma; because, I could not find any reviews on the net about them. Thank you!

The IRS Betas are hard to beat, and at the price they sell for used, giant killers. I agree that ARC tubes for the panels are a no-brainer, as they were built and tuned with these electronics. They need a big room, lots of watts and quality components in font of them. I have had them for 5 years or so and have no interest in replacing them (upgrading is now focusing on front end components).
See http://www.audiophilia.com/features/tm1.htm for thoughts on appropriate room considerations for these speakers.

Right on Beemer!!!
I have heard the Epsilon and they do NOT compare to the Batas or the RS 1-B's......I have the 1-B's and with the proper equipment tubed top and SS amp on bottom and a good source (I use vinyl)..they will sing and sling!

I came home form the NYC show two weeks ago very impressed with the speakers (the set ups) I heard (Wilson, Dynaudio, Innersound, Pipes etc).....BUT I was most impressed that after listening to my RS 1-b's later that night at home they sounded just as good(and better) then many of the rest.

I am sure you will do well with the Betas!

The best of luck!

Hello, I am also an Infinity enthusiast and have a pair of Renaissance 90's that I absolutely LOVE- they are SUPERB speakers!!! If you look around and can find a pair for approx $1500, they would be a Great buy. Have you seen the site: www.bobbsyhred.com/infinity.html ?? I also very much admire the Quantum & Q models Infinity made back in the late 70's- I have a pair of Quantum 3's, Qb's and Qe's and they are all great as well. Also- the whole thing about power can be a bit exagerated- well, as far as the Ren 90's go anyway. I am also a vintage Sansui enthusiast (www.classicsansui.com) -> I have quite a few Sansui amps & receivers in my collection- and all of them can drive the Ren 90's - JUST FINE. I had a new Odyssey Stratos amp (www.odysseyaudio.com) and sold it- it was nice and all- but didnt offer anything more than the Sansui hi fi gear I already have.

I have owned the RS-1B for a long time and I had used Audio Research gear and it sounded very good. Several years ago, I bought a used pair of IRS Betas. These speakers put out a lot of bass, in fact too much even with the proper adjustments, it was just too much. I got an Accuphase D28 digital equalizer and it was magic after that. I am using an older pair of Krell KMA-200 on the bottom and Sonic Frontiers Power 3 for the top.

I have refoamed all the woofers recently. It was not particulary easy to do, but the prospect of having to spend $165.00 each or a total of $1320.00 easily made the decision for me.

If anyone is considering buying and IRS Beta or RS-1B, one does need to check the foam surrounding the woofer for cracks.