Wilson Maxx3 vs Avalon Isis

HiFi+ has a review of the Isis by Roy Gregory that is fairly accurate. The Isis are detailed, coherent, holographic, and provide heft at the lower end to give music some body and presence.

They need special attention to component matching, and some may find them overly detailed or dry. Finding a good amplifier was actually a bit of a challenge. I'd want at least 300 watts, and if considering tubes, think of something with a large transformer.

From what I read, Maxx3 is more flexible with a wider range of amps...even some SET tube amps will do. Isis is more demanding in this regard. Which SS amps would be a good match? and which tube amps will be a good match, without toasting my room?

If you want music get the Isis,if you want demo hi-fi get the wilson.Its as simple as that.

Robert

Robert
You sure have a great set up. And I bet those big tube amps are hot. Have you tried your Isis with SS amps?

The three mono amp sets I have tried that worked exceptionally with the MAXX 3's are the Luxman 800A bridged to mono,the ARC 210's and the Berning 200w Quadrature Z's --currently. I would also recommend trying the more powerful VTL amps based on my listening at shows.

As usual with poll's like this you will get polarizing opinions from people that do not mention context or specifics. I am sure the Isis are exceptional speakers, and if they are on your short list I would find a way to listen with them. They will likely be harder to find for demo than the MAXX 3's, which are at a number of dealers.