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Gallo Ref 3.1 or PMC GB1/FR1

I'd appreciate any opinions regarding these speakers. I auditioned these speakers from two different dealers with different equipment, but I'm having a hard time making a decision.

Generally speaking, it seemed that the Ref 3.1 directed most of my attention to the details of the specific instruments & vocals, as it drew a larger soundstage and excellent imaging. The PMC just gave me a more foot tapping experience.
locomoco
hifidreams
109 posts
 
I have never listen to any PMC's, but I did just pick up a new pair of the Gallo's. And I can see myself keeping these for a long time. The more I listen, the better I like them. At first, I didn't notice any of that foot tapping experience either. But now that I have gotten them broken in(about 80-100 hours), it seems to be there.
shadorne's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
shadorne
7,467 posts
 
3.1 no contest. PMC make some nice speakers but the GB1 is not as good (have you seen the measurements on the GB1 - worth a visit to soundstage} The tweeter on the PMC is probably more reliable if you are considering this aspect.
steuspeed's avatar
steuspeed
501 posts
 
I have never heard PMC speakers. I have run Gallo Ref II's for many years. I have heard the Ref III's at my local dealer. The CDT tweeter throws such a nice soundstage. I can enjoy the sound no matter where I am in the room. The more you listen to the Gallos the more every other speaker sounds like a box. There are some exceptions like electrostats, planar and mbl's. The Gallo is a much more interesting speaker too. It's a great conversation piece. The CDT can be over bright with the wrong gear so be careful.
locomoco OP
2 posts
 
Appreciate all your replies. The Ref 3.1 is my first choice, but the PMC also sounds oh so nice too. There seems to be little press about the PMC brand in the USA. The Ref 3.x have received many excellent reviews with some reviewers replacing their current high priced speakers with the Ref 3.1.

Yes, I've heard that the CDT can be bright. I've read a few posts where they felt the Ref had a roll-off with the lower mid dynamics. I thought I noticed that with some tracks, however, my demo session was rather brief with no A/B reference.

FWIW, the PMC was driven by all McIntosh mono amps/tube pre/cd player. The Ref 3.1 was driven by all BAT mono amps/tube pre/? cd. The PMC just did everything well like an excellent all-around player, but the Ref 3.1 displayed some amazing play.

The Ref 3.1 have some excellent reviews, but here is a post in favor for the FB1 http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue25/pmc_fb1.htm

I'd appreciate more input please.
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