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Pondering a change after 30 odd years...

After 30 years I think it's time to move on. I have a set of Acoustat 1+1s that I've owned since new, paired with an RHLabs passive sub. It's been a great combination and still sounds pretty nice but it's all long in the tooth. Sooner or later a panel will quit then I'm dead in the water. I love the soundstage with it's "fullsized" presentation even if it's a PITA to get them dialed in just so. Maybe I'm just getting restless! I've heard many "box" speakers but damn no matter the price point it seems I can hear the "box". Granted I haven't listened to some of the big $$ stuff like Wilson but that's way outside my budget anyways. LOL! I'm wondering how some of the smaller "monitors" on stands sound? One thing I'm thinking I'd miss is the vertical part of my large soundstage. I've read about the Golden Ear line which get decent reviews. Or should I just stick with a panel of some sort, like Maggies? I've about 110 watts/side of tube power to work with. As for budget, I'm thinking somewhere in the $5-7.5K range. I'm listening to a lot of jazz these days with a dash of classical. But I'd hate to think my old rock vinyl wouldn't be welcome anymore. I know this is all pretty vague but hoping to get a nice discussion with things to think about versus "buy this" sorts of recommendations. AdThanksVance!
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jperry
2,448 posts
 
I had the original Acoustat X speakers, which I bought new. Sold due to downsizing and still regret it. The only thing I didn't like was the one person only beaming imaging.

The Acoustat panels are close to indestructible. 

You could try a few things.

In terms of box speakers sounding boxless, IME Wilson Benesh produces speakers with great imaging and incredibly low cabinet noise. I saw an older pair of Discovery stand mounts on e-bay today (no relationship).

Upgrade your subs to new active subs, look for some Sound Lab speakers, or maybe Eminent Tech speakers (link below) Good luck with your search. 

http://www.eminent-tech.com/
steve59's avatar
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steve59
1,760 posts
 
Seriously, get a listen to a used pair of meridian’s. They sell used for pennies on the dollar and sound unfreakingbelievable My only other suggestion would be more lateral and say you can’t go wrong with maggies.
r_f_sayles's avatar
r_f_sayles
872 posts
 
If you have loved what you have, why open a can of worms? 
Why not possibly have the panels refurbished/updated and/or try a different power amp and continue a path that satisfies and you understand? 
Some in this hobby really enjoy fiddling and taste testing. To me, it sounds as though your interest is in a satisfying listen. There is so much opportunity for not quite hitting the target and your sweet spot preference wise. 
I suggest staying where your at and doubling down. 
Happy Listening!  [|;^)>
tom8999
153 posts
 
I am biased - but hear is my recommendation ;

with a budget in the 7k range - the Best Buy in the Maggie line is the 1.7is - a 100 watts of power per channel should make them sing. You can use the Maggie bass panel (DWM)if you want more bass - I did this on one system, but I was not happy until I got the bass panel it’s own amp. Sounds great biamped - amazing soundstage and good bass slam for my Rock albums. I mostly play Blues and Jazz. This combo costs less than 5k. Or you can add bass to the 1.7is with The Swarm - a 4 sub system with it’s own amp. I just ordered The Swarm for my second stereo system (Peter Gunned Maggie 1. 6qrs) - Per TAS review - The Swarm will fix any room’s bass issues. I will let you know how it turns out once I get The Swarm set up. Hope to have them in 4 to 6 weeks - The Swarm would run in the range of 3k.

Happy Listening!
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musicfan2349 OP
232 posts
 
Thank you all for your kind thoughts and suggestions! I'd whinge a bit that most folks offered specific equipment suggestions vs. the conversation of "things to think about" I was hoping for but I think it's rather the nature of the beast being an audiophile. I admit my interest is piqued about the Spatial line of speakers. I live in the Seattle area and it's looking like the closest place to hear them in in SLC, a mere 12 hour drive... They seem a bit more forgiving of room placement versus electrostatic/planar speakers. But, I think the search is on! Thank you all again...
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