You're right Bean, I didn't mention dynamics, but the Gallos do it very well. In my "journey" I've focused on what was different than my KEF 104/2s. Both speakers are very dynamic and I'd call it a tie.
Also agree that they like to be cranked (or I like to crank them :) from time to time. Mostly I listen with the gain at 9 to 10 O'Clock. Haven't taken a db reading but it's a comfortable listening level that is high enough to mask external noises (those with young children know what I'm talking about :). Loud is 11 to 1 O'Clock. I'm more of a jazz, rock, fusion guy, so I really enjoy cranking some of the more well done SACD rock albums (Deep Purple, Dire Straights, Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, BOC, etc). Now some have really no dynamics to speak of, they are just brawlers. But the Brother in Arms and Dark Side of the Moon albums do.
Mostly I listen to smallish jazz/fusion ensembles where I focus on the interplay, syncapation, and flow of the group. What classical albums do you recommend to showcase speaker dynamics?
Also agree that they like to be cranked (or I like to crank them :) from time to time. Mostly I listen with the gain at 9 to 10 O'Clock. Haven't taken a db reading but it's a comfortable listening level that is high enough to mask external noises (those with young children know what I'm talking about :). Loud is 11 to 1 O'Clock. I'm more of a jazz, rock, fusion guy, so I really enjoy cranking some of the more well done SACD rock albums (Deep Purple, Dire Straights, Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, BOC, etc). Now some have really no dynamics to speak of, they are just brawlers. But the Brother in Arms and Dark Side of the Moon albums do.
Mostly I listen to smallish jazz/fusion ensembles where I focus on the interplay, syncapation, and flow of the group. What classical albums do you recommend to showcase speaker dynamics?