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Looking for new speakers

I'm looking to upgrade my Thiel CS3.6s -- I never thought I'd say this, but I think they are not good enough for the rest of my system. 

Within the last two years, I've upgraded my amplification to a Luxman L-509x integrated amp, and upgraded my turntable to a Luxman 171a. Overall my system sounds pretty good --- MUCH better than before the upgrade. However, there are some recordings on which there is definite distortion, particularly especially well-mastered 45s. For example, Diana Krall's Look of Love has so much distortion it's almost unlistenable. Even in the 33s, I can now hear a low-level distortion.

My theory is that when the Thiels were manufactured, the electronics were not quite as good as they are now, and definitely the recordings were not mastered as expertly, so these weaknesses did not show up. They were great speakers in their day, but, alas, I think maybe that day has passed, at least in my system.

I'm looking for something in the $10K - $15K range. Not sure if there's anything in that range that would be enough of an improvement, but I'd love some suggestions. It's been many years since I've looked at speakers, so I'm not really up on what's available at that price point.
theo714
bosssound's avatar
bosssound
120 posts
 
+1 Vandersteen Quattro ct
kairosman's avatar
kairosman
279 posts
 
If it turns out not to be a problem elsewhere in your system or with the files themselves, and you are still interested in replacing your speakers, keep in mind resale value is important unless you are not an upgrader. That was a big reason why I bought B&Ws, and why I bought my BMW.

Also, I would be cautious when evaluating recommendations offered here for specific speakers. No one knows enough about your tastes or your room or how best to inject synergy into your system. I learned the hard way to keep my own counsel.

Last but not least, try to avoid the flavor of the month, most likely it will cloy sooner rather than later.
daj
87 posts
 
Glad I'm not the only one to find it irritating when someone lays down the law (with conceit I might add) like it's the final word, each. and. every. time. Good grief, there isn't one opinion and everything else beneath it. 
imthorek
21 posts
 
Before you blame your speakers check if you have same issue with digital recordings i.e. CD player. If not could be you turntable. If same distortion is apparent with digital source,  try changing your interconnects and speaker cables. If the problem is still present, borrow a pair of speakers from your audio dealer or friend and see if the issue is resolved.  I doubt its the speakers.

imThorek
electroslacker
375 posts
 
Perhaps the Thiels are amp-sensitive.  I home-demoed the Thiel 3.5's with a 200 WPC Perreaux Mosfet amp and preamp. Mosfets are generally mellow, but the combo was ear-bleedingly bright.  I think the 3.6 was smoother, but once bitten...
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