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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.
audiojan
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
856 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. 
jafant's avatar
jafant
20,529 posts
 

audiojan

should you decide to keep the CS 2.4 speakers. Please join us over on the Thiel Owners thread. I would like to read more about you and your Audio journey.  Good suggestions as above.  Happy Listening!

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last_lemming
639 posts
 
I’m listening to my 2.4’s right now. It takes a bit of work to get them to work. The main reason being they reproduce what’s fed into them. Unfortunately most of my music wasnt recorded in audiophile grade quality. Things can get shrill.  Of course good recording sound amazing!

That being said, I added a REL 328 sub and that  gave the much needed drive I was looking for.

If you get rid of the Thiels you will miss the clarity they render,. But good equipment, esp. the amp is essential. 
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