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Moving up from Totem Arro

I've been waffling back and forth on what to do here. I want two things but can only afford one: new speakers and quality tube preamp. Upgrading the speakers makes the most sense after some thought (I think...). Does it to you guys?

What I like about the arro is that it's fairly small, has decent bass and images well. I'd like more resolution and midrange sweetness while maintaining those characteristics. I've placed it about a foot and a half from the back wall facing into an open concept living/dining room.

Restrictions are bass output as I live in an apartment building. So I'm leaning towards a better monitor or small floorstander with better components as really, the arro is fairly entry level.

I use a Pass Labs XA30.5 and PS audio directstream jr.
msommers
kdude66
1,200 posts
 
msommers,

You might look at the Tekton Electron.

Disclaimer no affiliation just a happy owner of the Double Impacts.

Kenny.
kalali's avatar
kalali
1,977 posts
 
In my opinion I think you'll find it difficult to find speakers that compare to Arros in terms of sounding bigger than they actually are, especially at their price range. You didn't mention a budget but in this price range I really liked the Dynaudio X-14 monitors. The Harbeth P3ESR is also real good especially if reaching down to lower octaves is not a requirement. Both are very apartment friendly.
donvito101
278 posts
 
+1 Harbeth P3ESR!
There is a mint pair listed here for $1550. You should make an offer on them!
linnlingo
173 posts
 
How much do you want to spend on your speaker upgrade?
soix
9,425 posts
 
That's a tough question.  Normally I'd recommend something like ProAc monitors and be on my way, but you've got good speakers that obviously do many things you like.  In this instance I'd be tempted to try a tubed pre first (since it sounds like you're going down that road anyway) as it may give you just what you're looking for while preserving -- or maybe even improving upon -- the other characteristics you like about the Totems. I'm in a similar situation and a pre I'm strongly considering is an SP14 from Don Sachs.  It's getting great customer reviews from audiophiles who have owned other excellent tubed pres, and I think he offers a brief trial period, which would be ideal in your situation.  Anyway, FWIW and best of luck. 
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