Revel Studio 1, B&W 802N or Sonus Faber Cremonas


Where to start with this question. I am pretty much starting over with my system and I would like to get some opinions. I currently do not own anything but I have owned alot over the last 10 years. I have owned speakers from Revel, B&W and Sonus Faber (to name a few) but not the above mentioned. I enjoy a musical sound with excellent imaging and transparency. I am thinking about going with a Primare stack (Pre30, A32 amp and CD31) or a Parasound stack (JC2 pre, A21 amp) and the Ayre CX-7e cd player. Or the Mcintosh MA7000 integrated with the Ayre Cx-7e cd player. Cables are unknown at this time. I would just like to get opinions on which speakers with which electronics. I would be happy with any of the speakers but I am unsure on the electronics. Your comments are very much appreciated!!
Ag insider logo xs@2xbrandonosman23
I have heard Watt Puppy on Mac and Krell. Did not like. Music sounded like it was stuck inside the speaker.(dont bite me, my opinion. Hated the Grand Slam too.) Heard Revel Salon2s on Simaudio and Bryston and liked them very very much. B&W 802 sounds great on Mac or Classe. Put them on more analytical electronics and they will run you out of the room. Harsh. Sonus are great. They are lively. My biggest hesitation with Revel is the Harmon aspect. I did not know they are built in China now. I still vote Revel Salon2 as they are so smooth.
Actually, I would start with stating a budget first. Recommending Salon2's is all nice and well but I sold my Studio 1's for $4,000, which is about 1/3 of what you would pay for Salon2's. You shortlist suggest you are shopping in the 4,000 - 6,000 used range, so let's stick with that parameter. Of the three you mentioned the Studio's and 802 can go head to head and personal preference can swing it either way. I would not put the SF's in the same league, but that is just me. If you won't have a chance to listen personally before buying, I would just take my chances and make sure you get a very good deal ($4,000 for the Studio's is about as low as it gets), so you can always sell at minimal loss should you want to try something else. Live dangerously - throw in a bid for $5,000 for the 802 currently auctioned (You have a few hours left).
The new Revels are not made in China. My Salon2s, purchased earlier this year, were "Made in the USA". I understand Harmon is moving some driver production to Mexico, but I haven't read how it affects the Salon2 series.
My Revel Salon 1s work very well with the Ayre front end . And Revels Ultima line is not made in China .