Speakers to hang on to for LIFE

I bought the A1 Soundlabs in 1989. If I had to replace my (same size) U-1 Soundlabs today, it would be with an identical pair. It is the only component in my system that I never consider changing.

I've had several different Vandersteen speakers for 15 years. I've owned their 3A Signatures for about a year, upgraded from the 3A's, and could easily hang onto them for life. However, I will eventually own the model 5's before I quite due to their fabulous performance, small size, and my undying love (or disease) of being an Audiophile . If you've heard them set up correctly, you know what I mean.

I have the original B&W CDM-1 in my den/home office system. This is the model that won all the audio awards in the mid 1990s, not the later versions. I think they are much mcuh better than the CDM-1SE and still better than the CDM-1NT (I have demo's these). The first order crossover is the main reason. The crossover they switched to on the later versions is fine for HT, but overemphasizes the midrange for audio. The new crossover is much easier to mass-produce, so it was probably a business decision. While I plan to upgrade my main system speakers someday, probably not these. They are powered by the Mike Creek designed Cambridge Audio A3i integrated amp; another keeper. Much better than anything Cambridge has made since. My Stan Warren modified DVD player is going in there when I move. Makes it the complete small "keeper" system.

Ever sold a pair of great speakers and then regretted it ever after? I wish I had kept my origal Newform RS8-2'x 30's and my M-L Sequel II's for starters. Now when I am able to obtain Meadowlark Shearwaters, Hales T8's, or Kharma Ceramique 1.0's THEN my hales T5's can go into storage.

I lived blissfully with Apogee Stages for 8 years. I only sold them because of a move to a much smaller room, Prior to selling I was considering adding sub/stands to create Mini-Grands. The previous post regarding service concerns is valid, but if you can live with this factor (and pick up a couple of extra ribbons from other Stages or Centaurs) you could be a very happy camper. Especially if you go with the Mini-Grand approach.

I've since moved and have a large room and bought CLS's and Kinergetics SW800 subs. I do not think I will ever part with this set up. In fact, I just bought 2 new SW102's for spare out-of-production SEAS paper drivers -- bring me to 5 extra brand new drivers. The ML's are readily serviceable should the need arise. So, I've gone from planning Mini-Grands to a Mini-Statement speaker system. Maybe when I grow up I'll have full scale "something or other" speakers.

It's nice to know that so many of us are in for the long haul and have found the sound that tickles our aural nerves.