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What used speaker would you buy with $20,000-$35,000 and why?

I'm closer to the 20,000 part, but if I get stretched i would like to know higher recommendations. Remember, this is on the used market - not retail. I'm even interested if you think I should make a huge jump (say to 50,000), but I want to know what justifies that jump. I'd like the best bang for the buck and even the worse bang for the buck. Are there speaker lines that are totally overlooked that sound wonderful in this price range that I need to be exposed to? I may go higher, but lets start there.

PS Let's just assume the upstream equipment is adequate to drive any recommended speaker. We are not limited by upstream components.
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mapman's avatar
mapman
22,189 posts
 
If it were me these are one of the few I would actually consider spending that much on if I could:

https://www.audiogon.com/listings/full-range-mbl-101e-mkii-world-class-speaker-extremely-rare-2016-0...

Maybe negotiate a deal for these if you have the room and gear otherwise to make it worthwhile.

If not used MBL 111e is a good compromise to fit the budget.





bdp24's avatar
bdp24
9,788 posts
 

If you decide on planars, you have some great choices. As others have said, you should if possible hear the Sound Lab ESL's. Also the Sanders ESL's, and a new entry--- the ESL with direct drive (no transformer in the speaker) tube amp by Music Reference. MR owner/designer Roger Modjeski designed a similar system for the legendary Beveridge ESL in the 1980's. Factor in a round-trip flight to Berkeley, CA to hear them!

If you have the room for the ESLs above, you have to hear (if you haven't already) the big Magneplanars. Many consider the 3.7i the highest value speaker available, and the bigger 20.7 a great one as well. Be forewarned---they require as much amp power (current---tube amps need not apply) as you can afford. A minimum of 200 beefy watts per for a small room, more for a bigger one. If you have a REAL big room, use a pair of Tympani IV's as (sub)woofers for them!

ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
I'd also put Vandersteens on your short list.  Make sure you hear the carbon series speakers.
keithr
1,306 posts
 
I recently had this budget and bought a pair of Devore Gibbon Xs that were much cheaper.  Caveat emptor...
meerzistar
232 posts
 
Some Tetra 606 reason being because I love them http://www.tetraspeakers.com/high_end_speakers_pages/606.aspx
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