Sonus Extrema: Amplifier and room size

Semi, maybe you're right that the Extrema are more of a nostalgic choice than anything else. On the other hand I have to say that despite technological changes, some of the best products are old -- I currently own a pair of Qaud ESL 57, and they are still amazing. If you like technology, I hear great things about the Emerald Physics. Also, I love the new B&W802D, and some of the Thiel models. Tough choice. I'll probably keep my Quad and set something with more presence at the lower levels...

I'll probably keep my Quad and set something with more presence at the lower levels...

Oooops -- I just now realised you have Quad 57s!

With all due respect, and good as the Extrema may be (enticing sound; acceptably balanced reproduction across 100-10kHz; realistic rendition of string instruments and most voices), they are really no match for the realistic & pure mid/upper-mid range of yr Quads. The Extrema can play somewhat louder without fear, & offer a modicum of dynamic impact you can't have with the Quads -- but that's it. (I had Extrema for years, years ago).

I strongly urge you to keep those spkrs & invest some fun in identifying something that's a "Quad" with lower end + highs + better tolerance to dynamic abuse! I would also join you in forgetting about technological advances -- your '58 Quads are technologically OK, very contemporary if you will. If you want "avant-garde" spkr components, try Ion tweets: that should get you firmly in the '60s if I'm not mistaken. The B&Ws, etc, are still rooted in the '30s :)! Regards

I saw Rowland mentioned up the thread. There's pretty good agreement that you'll need more power with those in your room. If you think of Rowland, then consider the Continuum 500 integrated. It's transparent, crystal clear, dynamic and absolutely stressless. I now prefer it to my tube, single-ended, Class A, headphone amp by Woo Audio.

Dave

With all due respect,the Extrema configuration I heard(with Townshend ribbon tweeters)was at the very least "close to today's better" competing designs.It is also built better than most,and looks like a beautiful piece of art.
I heard it with two different "tube" amps.The first did not have the juice to get them up and running very well,But the higher powered unit opened them up majestically.
Best to all.

Well, Gregm, my dream would be to be able to build a system with the Quads for the midrange, a couple of serious woofers, and perhaps two great tweeters. That said, it's not going to be easy. First of all, most of the subwoofers that you see around are made for the home theater market. I tried a velodyne foundation, 12 inches, and it just ruined the overall sound. I am now using it for my tv. I guess the ideal solution would be to have someone build a cabinet for two top-of-the-line drivers...something like, say, 10 inches. I don't think there are products on the market that one could buy with these characteristics, except perhaps for the gradient subwoofers that were designed for the ESL 63.

In reply to Sirspeedy, I love the Extrema's sound, an I agree with you that they are pieces of art. I guess my question is whether, absent the aesthetical pleasure that they give, one would buy them (and spend now around $ 6K) just for the sound...