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Thiel CS2.4 to what?

I'm getting the itch to upgrade my speakers (Thiel CS2.4). Nothing really wrong with them, they image like crazy, is like a clear window into the music, but I sometimes feel they are a bit too "reserved" and missing the joie de vivre. Looking for something that instills more life.

Rest of the system is PS Audio DirectStream Dac driving a pair of Bel Canto Ref500M. Front end includes a PS Audio PerfectStream Transport, a Auralic Aries streamer, Clearaudio turntable with PS Audio NuWave phono. All cables are Cardas.

My room is a semi-dedicated room (sharing it with my office, which is in an alcove off the listening room). I do have a sloped ceiling on the front wall (it's a finished attic), about 16' wide and 14' deep. Some acoustic panels to tame reflections.

Budget would be in the range of $4-6000 above what I can get for the Thiels (thinking about $2k as they are in awesome condition and has the upgraded maple finish). Basically, what would you recommend that is similar to the Thiel, but has more dynamics and a bit less sterile.
128x128audiojan
samac's avatar
samac
492 posts
 
+1 Bowers and Wilkins 804 D3

They are wonderful speakers.

Cheers,

Scott


audiojan's avatar
audiojan OP
390 posts
 
I've heard the Heresy III's and not overly impressed. Lots of drive, but tiresome to listen to over time. I've found that will all Klipsch.

Interesting suggestion on the B&W... I haven't heard the newest version D3, but I've heard previous versions. There's always been something holding me back though, can't put my finger on it. Probably time to listen to them again.
unsound
7,315 posts
 
Perhaps adding a couple of Thiel SS2 subs would do the trick.
mcreyn
293 posts
 
"Interesting you said Vandersteen... always loved the sound from the 5's at Audio Connection (when we lived in NJ). Was thinking Quatro. I don't think the room can handle the 5's."

Your room can handle the 5s just fine.  As long as your listening position is far enough away that the drivers integrate (about 8 feet), the room is big enough.  I went through this with a set of 3A Sigs, where people said they would be too large for my then 11x14 room.  I spoke with Richard Vandersteen who confirmed this was not true.  

In addition, the 5 has the fully adjustable integrated subwoofer, so you can adjust both its level and use the parametric to help address any room modes.  
marqmike
838 posts
 
You might like Totem's. Changing Cardas to PAD might give you some life. I would probably tune the Theils in a little. Every time I get a major component I end up getting many other things and it all takes more time, but as they say part of the fun is in the journey. 
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