I’ve been meaning to post here for a while. But since this was a ‘new speaker acquisition’ thing the posts seemed to be pretty technical and I couldn’t seem to find the right opportunity. Decided just to jump in.
I’ve been an enthusiast for a long time and have had a number of systems over the years. In conjunction with moving (to NH) a number of years ago I sold my equipment. Kept some vintage stuff from my college days (a very long time ago) and also brought a couple thousand lp’s which are still mostly in storage.
I happened to see an AR turntable for sale locally. Since I had one in the old days my curiosity was peaked. Anyway to make a short story long I bought it (see thread in “Vintage”).
That resulted in dusting off my old gear - mostly vintage Marantz stuff. Sent all of it to be checked over.
I needed speakers so I found a vintage shop in RI and auditioned a number of candidates. Once I heard the Thiel that was it. I didn’t exactly come in at the top of the food change as they were 1.2’s. I was so impressed by the sound! The footprint was great too as I’m in a relatively small place (and WAF is an important consideration). The speakers produced such a nice wide stage despite their rather modest size.
So fast forward several months. While I really liked the speakers I would have liked just a little more on the bottom end. Came across a beautiful pair of 3.5’s. Bought them and picked them up yesterday.
My listening area is up a flight of stairs from the entry so I had to bring them upstairs. The speakers came in the original boxes and I guess this is no great revelation but these puppies are heavy! (Previously had K horns and while they were heavy they could be split into two pieces so they were actually easier to move around).
Finally got them unpacked and in place. They sound great! I realize every system is different but they immediately had a fuller richer sound than their little brothers. Big sound stage and wonderful clarity. But not quite as much bass as I was expecting. I’m still experimenting but my space is limited so not many options.
Bottom line is I think the speakers are terrific and expect to keep them for a long time.