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Help Choosing Speakers

I am looking to find a nice pair of speakers that will work well in a relatively small dedicated listening room. My setup is 100% analog, tube amp, turntable, phono pre. I am trying to keep a minimalist approach.

Turntable: Thorens TD-150
Phono Pre: AudioResearch PH3
Amp: Decware MiniTorii
Speakers: DIY MarkAudio A12P in SuperPensil

Room Dimensions: 11' W x 12' 4" L x 10' H

So far I have been looking around at a lot of options and while I don't want to limit myself to 94 dB+ efficient speakers. I would like to be able to keep my Decware MiniTorii in place if possible.

LegacyAudio Signature SE is top on my list, little bit more than I wanted to spend, but this is a lifetime purchase. I have also looked at SalkSound Veracity ST but I am concerned about the Decware amps being able to push those. I have also looked at the Decware HR-1s which look impressive.

Of course its difficult to buy speakers without hearing them, any other recommendations/suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Also if anyone has heard the Legacy Audio Signatures with a Decware amplifier and has any details, that would be spectacular.

Thanks,

Ron

hifiron
cedargrover
302 posts
 
I agree with sbank on all counts.  I think if you read the "Ask Richard" section on the Vandy website, you will see that Richard frequently recommends the 1 for folks with lower power tube amps, and tends to encourage more juice for the 2 and *way* more juice for 3.  The only answer is a demo, though.  At the very least, bring your amp to the dealer and listen at your normal levels.  
gdnrbob
4,422 posts
 
As a Vandy owner, I think if you are considering the Vandy 1's or 2's, you should get at least one or better yet, a pair of 2w subs. Since the Vandy sub crossover (M5-HP) will filter out low frequencies, you probably wouldn't have to get a more powerful amp.
Sbanks recommendation for Johnny Rutan is a sound one. He will give you lots of great information you can trust.
I also +1, the recommendation for McCormack amps. I own the DNA-1 and MicroPower Drive.
I am currently moving to Atma-Sphere amps and preamp. I haven't got things hooked up yet, but when I do, I'll let you know what I think, if you wish.
gnostalgick
88 posts
 
  You probably don't need another option, but I just demoed the ProAc Studio 148 (at SoundImageATL--thanks Lawson!) and can't keep silent.  They have excellent detail, but no harshness, amazing vocals, as well as surprising bass for the size--but most of all they just get out of the way of music & let you feel the emotion of the recording. Recommended for amps 15 watts & up (4ohm), but you certainly wouldn't need a sub (except for organ music).

  I much prefer them to my experience of the Vandy 1's, but admit it isn't the fairest of comparisons as they're almost 3x more expensive & I was in a dedicated room, listening to my music from a Linn Majik 'integrated' thats more expensive than the speakers.
hifiman5's avatar
hifiman5
1,826 posts
 
Vandersteen speakers have always had a synergy with McCormack gear.  I am listening through Vandy Treo Cts powered by an SMc Audio modified McCormack DNA-1 amp as I type this.

wester17
69 posts
 
For minimalist yet stunning looks, excellent efficiency, great dynamics, and quality sound, I suggest the Spatial Audio M3 or M2 Turbos. Lately I've been driving mine with a 3.5 watt tube amp and the sound is totally engaging, with a soundstage that is jaw-dropping. You shouldn't overlook these gems. 

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