Altec Model 19's will get the job done with low-power tube amps! Can be found on the used market for around $3K.
Truly High Efficiency, High Quality, Nearfield Usable, Affordable Speakers, Do They Exist?
Trying to help a friend who loves music realize a lifelong dream. He finally has a room all to himself for listening, and wants to put together a SET system. He has acquired, in barter for work, a wonderful 2a3 based SET amp (3.5wpc) and has everything else necessary but the speakers. His room is 10 x 10 x 8, with the limitation that it must also house his desk to operate his business from. So the speakers will be in the nearfield, no more than 5-5.5 feet or so from his listening position, and within a foot to a foot and a half of the front wall, depending on speaker depth His budget requires these speakers to be reasonably affordable (bought used) to maximize his spending. He will be listening to music while working, and also purely listening for pleasure, a good fifty hours a week, so this systems performance is very important to him.
I'm aware of larger designs, and expensive speakers, though not any that can be used in the nearfield for his needs. Any recommendations, suggestions or expertise in this matter would be immensely appreciated. Thanks.
I'm aware of larger designs, and expensive speakers, though not any that can be used in the nearfield for his needs. Any recommendations, suggestions or expertise in this matter would be immensely appreciated. Thanks.
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- 19 posts total
The Omega/Decware pairing is well known on Audio Circle where Omega has a presence: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?board=31 I use Omega’s Super 3i Monitors with a Decware SE84UFO (2 wpc) in a 13’ x 18’ room. There’s more than enough volume for my taste and listening habits. Your friend’s amp should be just fine. After a year or so living with the Super 3i’s I added Omega’s DeepHemp 8 Subwoofer to the mix. In my room the sub was a nice addition. Obviously not needed in your friend’s smaller space but if his space changes in the future he can always add a sub if need be. |
A pair of Klipsch Heresy 3s will do the job very well. If out of the price range, a pair of series 2s would also be a good fit. I would be happy to discuss a few low cost modifications to get them to the next level. The natural bass roll off would be good in a small square room, and the drivers, being close together, works in a near field situation. As far as efficiency goes, they are as good as you will get. They sound lively, and present a very fun and involving listening experience. Of course, ymmv, but, this is my recommendation. Good luck, and Enjoy ! MrD. |
- 19 posts total