We now have Fritz Grove Speakers... they are excellent. We have owned the Vandy's too(1B, and 2Ce) They are quite nice too. Both the 1Ci and Grove will offer plenty of extension with quite a bit of resolution. It would be hard to go wrong with either of them. The Vandy's have a lighter more articulate sound. The Fritz will shine with a slightly warmer presentation but can be just as engaging in a smaller room. Excellent choice from either IMHO. Even at full price on both speakers, I feel they more than justify purchase at at double or more of their asking price. Excellent companies and excellent people.
Vandersteen 1Ci, Tekton Lore Reference, or Fritzspeaks Grove for a small room
I have not had the time to devote to listening to my system for a few years... Now that I am retired, I want to set up a system in a small room (12 X 14). I am leaning toward small floorstanders so I don't have to mess with stands. I am considering the Vandersteen 1Ci and the Tekton Lore Reference--but I see that the Fritz Grove is on special for $800, so they are also under consideration. My amp is a Cayin A50T EL 34 tube integrated. The nearest Vandersteen dealer is a couple of hours from my house, so I am able to listen to them. I sent an inquiry to Tekton over a week ago, and have not heard back--I had the same problem lack of communication with them several years ago, when inquiring about the original Lores. On the other hand, I have talked with Fritz several times in the past, and he goes out of his way to discuss his products. At one time I did demo one of his older products, a MTM design. I am hesitant to contact him yet about the Groves, until I am reasonably sure I would purchase them--He is so accommodating, that I feel guilty if I don't purchase something!
At at any rate, I am looking for something that would work well in my small (basement) room, that has a reasonably wide sweet spot (two or three seats). Thanks in advance for all input!
At at any rate, I am looking for something that would work well in my small (basement) room, that has a reasonably wide sweet spot (two or three seats). Thanks in advance for all input!
- ...
- 27 posts total
A quick Google for the Fritz website showed no Grove on sale. Are you buying these direct or from a dealer? Though Fritz's designs are intriguing, I think you really have to listen to them, or at least listen to both the Vandy's and Fritz's if you are considering them. FWIW, I have only returned to Hifi after a 30 year hiatus. During the '80's, I heard the Vandersteen 2's and was awed by their capabilities. After all those years, I still remembered how they sounded. Last year, I decided I wanted to listen to music again and was so glad to find Vandersteen still held in high esteem. As I said, I now have the 3a sig's in my main room, and can honestly say that they are truly worth every penny. So, if you can't demo the Fritz's, I would say you would not go wrong with the Vandersteen. Heck, add a 2w sub or two and you will be in heaven. |
Here is the link to the Groves: http://www.audioasylumtrader.com/ca/listing/Speakers-Stand-Mounted/FritzSpeakers.Com/Grove/Custom-bu.... However, I am strongly leaning toward the Vandersteen’s! |
Had a pair of Fritz Carbon 7's for a short time. Once I had the crossovers replaced they were fine, prior to that they were a very non-linear, fatiguing speaker. Cabinet quality was average at best, didn't care for the finish. Some small speakers I've enjoyed over the years and can recommend: Aurum Cantus, Merlin, Von Schweikert, Talon, ProAc. I'll bet the Vandersteens are excellent. |
- 27 posts total