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Can you tell me why I didn't like the Reference 3a MM's?

So I recently asked about a new amp on the Amplifier forum.  I got a lot of good advice and ended up with a Pass XA25.  I really like this amp and the sound.  I have been told by Reno Hi Fi, Pass Labs and B&W, all of whom I contacted, that the XA25 is under-powered for my B&W 705S2 speakers.  But it sounds very good.  However a little flat when the volume is low.

So I am looking for some more efficient speakers.  I tried a used set of Reference 3a deCapo MM's, but they did not have the clarity of the B&W's and sounded a bit muddy at times.

I am looking at Omega Super Alnico HO's.  But I am wondering if the full range driver sound is what I didn't like.  

Am I wrong in thinking more efficient speakers will sound somewhat better at a lower volume?  Can you possibly tell my why I didn't like the MM's?  Something about their design or build?

Any thoughts on the Super Alnico HO's?  I don't want to move down the speaker sound chain.

Thanks much!  Any other speaker suggestions welcome!  But not horns.  I am not a Klipsch fan.
jgoldrick
jbrrp1
423 posts
 
@sounds_real_audio  I'm having trouble understanding what you mean by
"the bass seems to have a bubble sound to it".  It's not a descriptor that I have encountered before.  Could you elaborate further, please?
audition__audio
1,682 posts
 
In my experience tube amps sound much better and more linear at lower volumes. I owned the Pass XA 30.8 and could never warm to the sound. Seemed to me like it (Pass) tried to serve too many masters and ended up not serving any very well.


nyaudio98
420 posts
 
Um...the mm de capo are stellar...you could of called tash the owner 
sounds_real_audio
1,034 posts
 
jbrrp

Sort of a bloated one note bass.
bob7296's avatar
bob7296
35 posts
 
I think you need to specify what version Reference 3A MM De Cappo you were listening to as they've been around since 1980! and have gone through numerous iterations of upgrades since. The latest being their 40th Anniversary edition with Beryllium tweeter, cabinet reinforcement, heavily reinforced rear and side panels, modified woofers, capacitor and wiring upgrade. I find the sound very smooth articulate, musical and non fatiguing.
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