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Need some Speakers with sensitivity >90db

A friend is looking to upgrade his speakers. Budget is in the region of $800-$1400

He would like floor standers, but monitors are OK as well

They must have a sensitivity greater than 90db in order to play nicely with his amp

We tried my 89db speakers last night and they were very good - except when a couple of tracks were played loudly - the bass got a little out of control

With my amp the sound was perfect, so I’m thinking if he tries a speaker with higher sensitivity, it should be a better match.

I’ve taken a look at Tannoy Mercury 4’s, which come in at 93db and there are a couple of Martin Logan bookshelf/monitors at 92 db

Thanks for any suggestions - Steve

williewonka
ghosthouse's avatar
ghosthouse
4,319 posts
 
A floorstander alternative to the well-regarded Ref 3As: Silverline Prelude Plus (92 db). Used will be necessary to hit your friend’s budget range though they can be had new for under $2000 (and sometimes well under that). Enjoying a pair with a 20 wpc amp.

https://www.underwoodhifi.com/products/silverline-audio
gdnrbob
4,459 posts
 
I'd take a look at Zu Audio speakers.
Great price and well made. I think the Soul is rated at 97 db.
B
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
Steve, have your friend consider Tekton Design. He should be able to find options within his budget. If interested, have him call as they have more in stock items than listed on the Specials Page...which will also eliminate the wait time.
freediver
1,236 posts
 
I've been speaker shopping for low powered tube amp and here's the BIG problem.Manufacturers OUT AND OUT LIE regarding sensitivity specs.The Ref.3A for example was measured by some Canadian testing facilility at 87.5db.actual @1 watt input..The Martin Logans came in at 88db.and on and on..
 Look at gently used Nola Boxers,the Silverline Preludes and Prelude+ and I've seen great prices lately on used Legacy speakers,4 ohm nominal but most are 94db..Also look at the Q Acoustics 3050,it looks like an amazing deal...
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,476 posts
 
I would say either the Tektons or the ZU Audio.  The Tektons will come in for less $$$  and seem to have a big following.
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