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...bookshelf speakers that sound good at low volume...

Hello to all...

Looking for new bookshelf speakers that sound good at low volume

CD-only listening; powering with 35w/8ohm Monoprice integrated, with silver interconnects; speaker cable home made twisted 14g solid core copper, bare wire connected to JBL L25 "PRIMA" Big 2-ways...

In approx. 14’ x14’ room in apt: multi use area - dining/kitchen/tv-gaming

If dedicated listening: approx 8’away (speaker cabinets 6’ center to center; speakers are not mirror-image const.)

Speakers sound great at medium+ volume - they really sing - but are really muddy and not detailed at low volume.

Options: replace integrated with vintage or new 50-75w/ch (with or without DAC) OR new or vintage bookshelf speakers... budget $500-$1000 max.

Located in Metro NYC area...

At present - I am gonna keep the JBLs: could their low volume presentation change with a better or higher wattage integrated?

I know I am casting a wide net here, not looking for " try it - see how it sounds": looking for experiences and opinions based on trial and errors of others willing to share.

Thanks in advance to all... Best Wishes - Be Well...
insearchofprat
genez
220 posts
 
Others have been saying it, and its truth. Low level listening needs a bass boost. And depending upon the speakers, some high end boost might be needed also. I have a very high end desk top system ..., but do not believe one needs to spend a lot for everything for it to sound very good.
The solution I found is here...

Amazon carries it here:https://www.amazon.com/BBE-282iR-Maximizer-Unbalanced-Connections/dp/B00FRLB87Q
For balanced connections there is this model.
https://www.amazon.com/BBE-282iX-Maximizer-Balanced-Connections/dp/B00FRLB57Y

I own both versions and both make the system sound surprisingly good!  The bass boost is a high quality linear boost.  Not boom, but bass.



simao's avatar
simao
1,836 posts
 
Triangle monitors image well and are beautifully transparent at low volumes
mesch
3,524 posts
 
I would purchase a different integrated with a loudness switch. The Yamaha A-S501, 701 or 801 line fit your budget. 
mesch
3,524 posts
 
Forgot to add, I own a A-S701. I use the internal DAC with a Sony CD/DVD as a transport. Has 100wpc and contoured loudness which allows variance in loudness function.  
atharg000
1 posts
 
Options: replace integrated with vintage or new 50-75w/ch (with or without DAC) OR new or vintage bookshelf speakers budget under $1000 max.
Alright, then.
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