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Thinking of Kef Blade 2 to replace Revel Salon 2

Is this just a sideways move or an upgrade?  I am leaning partly just for looks.  The Salon 2 is nice and pretty unflappable maybe a little on the ruthless revealing side.  I don't really have the ability to go hear these before I buy and really every dealer audition Ive had has left a very bad taste in my mouth for it.  I like the idea of a speaker that sounds good all around the room not just in the sweet spot as I tend to not listen as much that way. I would hope to not give up to much bass to the Salon 2 with the Blade 2.  
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ricred1
2,043 posts
 
Thanks for the information. My room is 20' x 26'. I really like the Blade 2s; I just don't know if I like them enough to replace my Monitor Audio PL500 IIs. When you already own a speaker it changes the equation.
audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
3,807 posts
 
Ricred1 it all depends on what you find appealing between the two speaker systems. 

The Blade does dynamics, and big image with focus very well, it is also quite extended on the top with a very natural midrange.

The Monitors are a bit more laid back in the upper treble and midrange, they do sound very large and have excellent bass. 

I have heard the Monitors and they sound a bit sleepy sounding. 

Our personal recommendation is for you to try a more visceral sounding line of electronics over the Rowland, such as the T+A or keep the Rowland and move to a more exciting speaker which compliments the warm sounding Rowland gear.

Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ
ricred1
2,043 posts
 
Love ya, but I don't think you've heard the Rowland 625 S2? Several Audiogon members have heard my system. Some thought it was laid back,  some said it had bite and was slightly forward. I submit it's on the very slightly dark side of neutral and the recording determines the sonic signature. Listening to different speakers is both educational and fun.
audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
3,807 posts
 
I agree with you on the sound of the Rowland being a bit on the warm side of neutral, almost never heard Rowland sound forward although it is possible with the Chord Dave which is a slightly forward hyper detailed piece.

Overall with the Rowland gear and the Monitors I would think the system might sound a bit sleepy.

Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ
yyzsantabarbara
4,895 posts
 
@ricred1 Your room is big enough for the Blade 1. I have heard this speaker in a room as big as yours and it just blows my socks off. I have not heard the Blade 2 yet.

@audiotroy I know you love the T+A. How does it sound at low volume? Does it need to be turned up for best performance?
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