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
You might borrow a Pass X.8 series amp.  I purchased an X150.8 recently to run on my 2.4s.  Its far warmer and has huge power reserves for the Thiels than the Aesthetix Atlas i was using prior.  I've also used Bel Canto however, which is normally a good solution for Thiels as you may know.  The Pass x series really fleshes out the 2.4s like nothing else.  

audiojan

A nice thread with valuable information therein.  Happy Listening!

pwhinson


I am looking forward in reading more about the Pass Labs X150.8 as you massage it into your system.  Happy Listening!

I've heard the X150.5's with 2.4's and the sound is quite extraordinary. The .8 is supposed to be a step up (although cut from the same cloth), so I can only imagine that it's a fantastic combination.