Wilson Sophia 3 vs Sabrina

Today I demoed both speakers side-by-side in smaller then optimal treated room with ARC gear connected with Transparent cables. Sabrina was positioned closer to rear wall sounding little heavy in mid-bass. Midrange sounded buttery smooth with highs detailed and airy. Sabrina handled vocals beautify, same time with all Wilson strengths; full-body sound with respectful dynamic. I tough Sophia3 will be even more overkill but since it was position more forward in my surprise bass was excellent. No boomy mid-bass with greater authority, speed, pitch and extension compare to Sabrina. Actually, Sophia3 sounded clearer throughout the spectrum with better resolution in mids and highs. Vocals lost warmth to some degree, but didn't sound cold. Same goes with tweeter; not harsh whatsoever, just with different character. I was so impressed with this set-up (witch I thought it's not possible in small size room) that I continue to listen Sophia3 few hours not desiring to switch back to Sabrina. I found both speakers are great, but Sophia3 is my choice so far.

Thanks MF,

I always tend to like the larger speakers better when given the option. They just seem to hit with more impact in the bass which is critical to me. I have never bought into the "speakers too big for a given room" concept. 30hz bass at a given SPL is 30hz assuming the speakers physically fit in the room. But buying large expensive speakers for a small room could be a waste of money if the output is not needed.

I think Sabrina can be generally better accepted, because (in my opinion) will better integrate in less than optimal listening environment. Sophia needs more acoustically controlled room for right set-up to reach her potentials. Wilson claim that Sophia can be matched with moderate electronic, but I found only high-power quality tube or great solid-state amps will balance sound as it was designed. This all adds system cost and I feel Sophia and Wilson bigger models sound can only be discussed if one can afford dedicate listening room as foundation for proper set-up.

I do not find Sabrina's enjoyable. I find them muted. Sophia 3 are overall better to my ears.

What you refer as mute, TAS reviewer call warm...