speakers for classical music

Atma notes above

20db BTW is a 100:1 difference in power.

by which cryptic remark, he means: it takes one HUNDRED TIMES the power to yield an increase of 20dB in spl. (Btw 20dB in spl is 10x louder.)

This went unnoticed; how many low sensitivity spkrs can actually produce 20dB dynamic contrast starting from an audible minimum level? Answer: very few if any. Just do the math, the drivers will quick the bucket.

So for beauty, choose dynamic spkrs; for concert dynamics, it's only horns.

Interesting responses. Narrowing the field a little. Not interested in horns, electrostats, personal (vs established company) designs etc. Speaker must sound good for both 105 db orchestral and 70 db chamber. Not interested in opinions from those who think that the speaker wire has an effect (other than the awg) or that biwiring has an effect. size of room subject to vary. budget not a driving force - but large increases in cost for small change in quality is not sought after.

Just go with the B&W just not the 803. I think the best model are the 805, 802 and 800.

Musicnoise:

When I listen to orchestra music and the peaks are exceeding 100 dB, it's VERY loud, and then moderate to low volumes passages sound unnaturally higher in volume than they should. It sounds like you're looking for a speaker that's dynamic, very neutral, low distortion, and open sounding, with no box stuffiness or coloration. One that will illuminate the room with a linear response both on and off-axis.

Seriously look into the Linkwitz Lab Orion if the budget isn't restricted. Check their website for people willing to allow auditions. If you're anywhere near the Ohio-Indiana-Kentucky area I'd be glad to let you audition both the Orion and the ∏ Audio systems in my home. Let me know.

Musicnoise, Vienna Acoustics has several speakers that will meet your criteria and the crossovers are designed to exclude biwiring.

Dave