I too!!!... would second the vote (of nonoise) for Tony Minasian’s G6 stand mount speakers. They are my favorite (best kept secret) for musical bliss! Transparency, fast, neutral, sensitive, and what I might call, emotional musicality. Since my purchase, it’s become very difficult to pull myself away from the sweet spot, quite addictive!
What's your favorite boutique speaker maker
Seeing a few discussions recently about Fritz made me curious about what other artisan speaker shops are out there.
I'll cast my vote for Louis at Omega Speakers in CT. His high efficiency full range Alnico drivers, impeccable craftsmanship and very reasonable prices make a compelling option. I've had some very nice speakers over the years but these put a smile on my face like no others could. My search is over.
No affiliation with him, here's a link to the ones he built for me the beginning of this year.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B7RE-f7JiW6/
I'll cast my vote for Louis at Omega Speakers in CT. His high efficiency full range Alnico drivers, impeccable craftsmanship and very reasonable prices make a compelling option. I've had some very nice speakers over the years but these put a smile on my face like no others could. My search is over.
No affiliation with him, here's a link to the ones he built for me the beginning of this year.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B7RE-f7JiW6/
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- 162 posts total
So far it’s been US companies. Here are three of my favourite from the rest of the world. The Swiss company Boenicke make speakers which are elegant hand-made beauties, all made from solid wood. They look and sound like no other speaker, so musical and with a wonderful sense of air and space, and massive depth. Without a doubt my favourite speakers. https://boenicke-audio.ch The British company Wilson Benesch are another great boutique company, run by a British family. They make speakers with high tech materials and they sound very impressive - fast and detailed and very transparent. http://wilson-benesch.com From Taiwan Lawrence Audio make quirky looking speakers which have a superb rich sound. http://www.lawrenceaudio.com An observation: from looking at the recommendations in this thread it seems the US boutique speakers are mostly very much conventional rectangular boxes. The European and Asian boutique makers seem to be more open to pushing speaker design into something more attractive whilst still keeping the sound as a priority. |
I, too, wondered about what defines "boutique". Janszen qualifies if we're referring to factors such as small production numbers, products built-to-order, distinctive design features, and direct involvement of the owner/CEO in the production and sales processes. Oh, and relatively high prices. $5K (or so) and up? Janszen offers 30-day trials and only sells direct. I don't think Devore offers in-home trials (or maybe it depends on the dealer). |
- 162 posts total