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$16K new/used speaker question?

Opinions on options for full range, 8ohm, 90db or above speakers. So far I have heard and liked both Devore GibbonX, and Acoustic Zen Crescendo's and really like them both a lot.  I'm using an all BAT tube system with the VK-150se tube amps. Any thing else I should be listening to? I've heard the Wilsons sound great with BAT gear, but on paper they look like they would be really rough on my amps.
tom_hankins
tom_hankins OP
928 posts
 

teeshot,

After mucho listening, your right. I've found three lines of speakers I really like, show after show and demo after demo....to include bothering locals to listen in there homes.;)

After 5 plus years with 2 models of YG's moving on will be hard. If I do it will be to bigger YG's, Magico, Marten, or Wilson. I'm going to audtion Rockports but have heard them at two shows and both times came away thinking there was a thickness to the sound.I was impressed but,  Not sure if its something I could live with long term. I'm probably going to have to save a little more $$$ to get as good or better than what I have now, and can play better in my new larger room. 

keithr
1,306 posts
 
Tom- I went through the same decision process recently in your price range (and demo'd most of the speakers mentioned) and just ordered Gibbon Xs. In contrast to others, I much preferred the X to the O96s and Devore definitely makes different sounding lines so personal taste is very much in play. I value sound stage, dynamics, and tone and the Devore hits those criteria right on the button.

On the more resolution-oriented side, I was tempted by YG Haileys but cost just got out of reach for me. They also aren't tube friendly although your large BATs may stand a better chance. fwiw, I had a Carmel 2 in-home demo.

ejr1953
907 posts
 
I've been enjoying a pair of Focal Sopra No2's now for about six months.

I enjoy all sorts of styles of music, except rap and country.

I find they are a very "musical" speaker, not what one salesman would call "analytic".
ricred1
1,992 posts
 
keithr,
please describe the Carmel 2s sound
keithr
1,306 posts
 
ricred1- very resolved, transparent speaker. certainly not a warm speaker, but not cool either which is usually how I've found, say Magico. Vocals could be bedazzling at times as emotion really came through with utmost resolve. On the negative side, I felt they lacked dynamics and the top end doesn't balance as well as the bigger YGs that have a third woofer. the Carmel 2 is a beautiful speaker and looks great in the flesh, but at 25k I found myself requiring a full range speaker...now if you're room is small, then the Carmel would be a natural fit. But for my taste, YG's Haileys are the best "value" in the line.

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