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Looking for "Last" 2 channel speaker system.

I am looking to downsize my speaker system in the near future and am interested in some feedback as to what my shortlist should be for auditions!

Some background. I currently have the Genesis 4 tower speakers, and absolutely love everything about them, except, their size! In particular I like the fact that the bass towers have adjustments which includes remote volume.........very very handy and useful.

For my last set of speakers I would like something with a much smaller footprint, that can also play occassionaly at higher SPL's. I think soundstage and detail and a holographic image is important, and a strong bass is important although I'm not completely against using a separate subwoofer to assist with the absolute bottom ends.

Some of the contenders that I am considering are: Marten Coltrane, Consensus Conspiracy, Avalon Isis, JM Lab Stella, Hanson King V2 and some model of Kharma. I have also been reading lately some very good reports on the top of the line Legacy speaker.

I would like to keep the price down somewhat, hoping to spend no more than $25K on the used market, perhaps up to $40K for something that performs in Utopia.

I don't feel that my front end info matters much as it is constantly in a state of flux, although I don't see the MBL6010D leaving.

Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
bullot
ckoffend
684 posts
 
I think what he means is that since his front end changes regularly, he does not have a need to match a recommended speaker to his existing components - that he can/would change as is necessary to match well with new speakers. That being said, I think his approach is correct in that it provides him maximum flexibility on finding the best speakers and not limiting his selection to only speakers that mate up well with his front end and other components. I did not read him to state he doesn't think the front end has an influence on the speakers. At his used speaker price range, I don't think changing pre, CD, or even amps will be that big of a stretch.

Lot's of speakers in this price range that are fantastic. More of what you are likely to experience is nuances more so than full tilt differences.

I'd add to the list Wilsons (which I like) and MBL's (which from a size perpective fit your goal). I really think in this price range, attending a show is the way to go. It will afford you the opportunity to hear many high value products in close time/proximity to each other. Running around to different dealers may be a bit much and so broken up in time frame that it makes it hard. At this price range I definately feel a show is the best approach.
g_m_c
443 posts
 
the Vandersteen 7's would fit the bill.
linkster
431 posts
 
Tidal Piano Diacera or Piano Cera as long as you are considering Marten, Kharma or Consensus. With their tuning capabilities/adjustments, they should serve you well in the event you move.
kurt_tank
1,189 posts
 
I love the Avalon Isis speakers, and sonically, they are top notch, (but to be honest, I truly doubt you'll ever find them for $25K used - $35K used is the normal price range.) They are rather tall though, so your requirement for a smaller speaker might not be as fulfilled with that speaker. (Their footprint is not too large though.)

If I might make a recommendation, and that is to audition the Rockport line of speakers. They are really top notch, both sonically, (as that is the most important aspect), but also aesthetically.

If you could find a pair of used Antares, I think you would be more than happy. They are not very tall, and while the footprint is somewhat large, it is not huge by any means. (They are heavy though, at about 400 pounds each.) Used they probably go for between $25-30K. They are very accurate, but not analytical in the least. They are very musical, but do not have a hint of mid-range bloom. The bass is there when you want it, but there is no bass boominess at all. And the treble is outstanding, as it is very refined and well extended.

(In case you're wondering, No, I don't own them, (a friend does), but I certainly do wish I did!!)

My two cents worth.
theo's avatar
theo
2,680 posts
 
The Vandersteen 7's is a good Choice for full delivery top to bottom. Also the Wilson Sasha is a good speaker to consider. The vandys list around 46K and the Sashas are a great value at 26K.
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