How do Dunlavys compared to new stuff?

Thanks for the very thoughtful reply, Drubin. I have been set with my system containing Snell Es since the 90s. It's been a long time since I auditioned stuff so don't remember that well. I do remember liking Vandersteens (ci?), did not like NHTs as they seemed too sterile, and have liked the Proacs I have heard. Listening to many speakers at the Stereophile show, I really can't remember brands or impressions except that I always remembered that late in the day when I heard the Dunlavys I had the experience that I was sure without question they were my preference. My Snells have a sweetness I haven't heard in many speakers, but they lack in detail and imaging (and it could be my placement etc). I just thought I'd like to move up.

Jim

Before I changed I would change the internal wiring for something like Cardas and get new binding posts. Spikes or spiked stands might also be a good idea. You would be amazed how much more can be gotten out of equipment, especially speakers, with some simple upgrades. What speaker cables are you using now?

Thanks Stanwal. I use a large gauge multistrand wire obtained from an electrical supply. I should probably invest in some real cables. However, cost is certainly a factor and I wonder if investing a lot in these is a better choice than an upgrade to a better (imaging) speaker? Something has just happened with Snell and I've been trying to see if driver replacements are still available, the foam surrounds have already gone out once (in the nineties).

I would definitely look for IVAs rather the IVs. I have owned both and the IVA is superior IMO.

On a related note: I've often wondered what the Dunlavy IVA would have sounded like with top notch drivers and crossover components. Of course the prices would have been significantly higher but it could have been quite a speaker.

On a related note: I've often wondered what the Dunlavy IVA would have sounded like with top notch drivers and crossover components. Of course the prices would have been significantly higher but it could have been quite a speaker.

Member jadem6 worked extensively on the crossovers in his IV-As as documented in this thread