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Suggestions for higher efficiency speakers

Interested in trying lower watt tube SET or class A amps.  After hearing about the 'magic' for years I feel it's about time I give it a listen.  But, don't think my current speakers are efficient enough (please correct me if I'm wrong about this).  I have Snell Type D at around 87 dB and Gallo 3.1 at around 88.  Not exactly inefficient but could be better.  I have used my Jolida 502 brc (60 watt) with the Snells and it sounds great.  About to try the Jolida with the newer Gallos.  I have read that they work well with tubes, eager to find out.  

Looking for suggestions for efficient speakers under $2k.  I know most horns qualify but, unfortunately, I have never been a big fan of the Klipsch sound.  Of course there are other brands to check out.  

I am in the process of researching amps right now. Seems like there are a few nice options in my lower price range.  If you want to throw a few amp suggestions out there too that's great.

Thanks!
pkatsuleas
pkatsuleas OP
269 posts
 

Thanks for the great replies.  I've heard a few Klipsch models over the years, never interested me enough to even get the names. One was the big Cornwalls though. Impressive but wasn't my cup of tea. Granted, I have not heard any of their newer celebrated models. I will be checking them out.  Have only heard older JBL stuff and, again, not for me.  The A170s are only $419 on amazon right now.  They do look nice and Herb was almost gushing.  At 89 dB not exactly sensitive.  

Tekton is certainly on my list to hear.  Zu Audio is another one definitely on my list. I recently just missed a used local pair of Dirty Weekends. I admit I have trouble pulling the trigger on speakers without hearing them first. Or anything for that matter. But there are almost none around for audition, or on the used market. Might have to get over it and just place an order. 

Very interested in open baffle types like Spatial.  Especially after hearing the Vinnie Rossi open baffle prototypes at Axpona - one of my show favorites.  But, alas, there is the budget to keep in mind!

The recent purchase of a HSU sub has expanded my reach to monitors as well so will be trying some asap.

I may try some higher powered tube gear with my existing speakers. Rogue Audio comes to mind. Would like to experiment with bi-amping as well. There is a used Cary CAD-280SA V12 that looks interesting. Has triode and ultralinear modes - 50/100w. Not exactly SET....  Also local is a pair of CAD-300SE Signature monos at 15 w. I can probably get them home for an audition. Have to start somewhere and always wanted some Cary gear! When I first started in this hobby 20 yrs or so ago a local dealer carried some nice Cary stuff that kinda blew my mind.

Thanks atmasphere for the detailed info - just what I need!

Kind of all over the place, I know. Just looking at options and suggestions from the community and building some short lists. Finally able to get some funds together and having a good time swapping and experimenting!

Thanks again!


dill
2,544 posts
 
I was Cary dealer in the early 90's and had the CAD-300SE mono's in house. These are great amps and wish I still had them. They where paired with AudioVector speakers.
br3098
997 posts
 
I have enjoyed great music through dual-concentric Coherent speakers from Canada and single driver Omega speakers from Connecticut.  IMO both of these manufacturers offer several models, all wonderful.  Honestly these apeakers do almost everything right.  One of them of bound to float your boat.

If you like horns Klipsch Heritage speakers (Heresy, Forte, La Scala, Cornwall) can be driven with just about any amp.  I had a pair of Belle Klipschs once and drove them from a 0.75W amp using 71A triodes.  Sounded fantastic.

saleh84's avatar
saleh84
42 posts
 
Check out Cube audio speakers range. High sensitivity, Single drivers without a crossover. The tech has been refined so minimal sacrifice on bass department (which is a single driver typical design limitation). These speakers are pure magic! Maybe one of the smaller ones will be within budget.
phill55's avatar
phill55
142 posts
 
I too have a Cary Audio SLI-80 SIgnature amp with some cap upgrades (bought the amp on this site - not dissapointed with my decision). Look up - some good deals between $2,500-$3,000. I am also using simple REL sub woofer paired with Fritz Carbon 7 MK II speakers. Although only 87dB, they have been shown playing at shows with Audio Note One amps (Ota SE 1- watt amp) - see link from past Audigon site:  https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/review-fritz-carrera-be-speakers .

Enjoy the trip :-) 
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