Aerial 5T impressions

Hi,

I wonder if anyone has compared 5T with ATC SCM19 v2. I am struggled to choose between these two. I listen to vocals most usually and prefer good low end. Any impression or suggestion will be appreciated.

As for the amp, I own Benchmark AHB2, which provides 100 W per channel. I would like to know if it is sufficient to drive them in a 300 square feet room.

Thanks!

There was an old comparison in Stereophile of the 5B to the SCM19 V1; kind of came out in a tie. I have the SCM20 pro passives (virtually same as the SCM19 V1). I love them, and find the low end remarkable for a sealed enclosure. It’s accurate and very well defined, but also goes deep. I’d think the SCM19 V2 would take all the good things from the bass and mids and have even better treble. They’re also very easy to place in room. You have to go listen to speakers for yourself cause it’s going to be a question of taste.

I use the P1 but others have reported the AHB2 drives the SCM19s really well (think the thread is still on this page). ATC just came out with a new SIA2-100 integrated which should be cheaper than the P1. The power amp section of the SIA2-150 integrated (which sounds really great) is the same as the P1. I believe the SIA2-100 uses the same topology but just a lower rated transformer.

Actually the AHB2 seems to in fact cost a little more than the P1. It wasn't available when I got my stuff; I find the P1 pretty perfect for the SCM19s/20s. The P1s don't really have a sound as such. 

I listened to the 5t’s when I bought my 7t’s. They are the best sounding book shelf speaker I ever heard. The new Stereophile magazine has them as an A rated component.

Out of curiosity, do any of you 5T owners feel a sub is needed to fill in the lower octaves? I’m thinking in a listening room size of say 13’x17’ with speakers along the shorter wall with primarily jazz and acoustic music.

I listen to a lot of Jazz and acoustic blues and Jazz. W/that music you really don't need a sub just keep the Speakers around 18" from the back wall. Having said that you will get an added benefit to larger ensemble music w/a sub. I use a Paradigm PDR-8 sub. For the ultimate I would suggest the Rel 7Ti.