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Advice on near-field speakers (eg, Raidho X-1)

I recently started a thread asking whether a stand-mount speaker could reward critical listening, and enough people were encouraging that I'm moving forward. Given how difficult it is to audition speakers these days, I'd appreciate some advice on which speakers might work well for me. 

I have a small, 10x12 room that I can use as a dedicated listening room. My budget for the speakers is 10k, though I'd prefer less, and I'll be buying a new amp and probably subs to fill out the sound. Like Lou Reed, I have a rock and roll heart, but for this room I'm primarily interested in chamber music, symphonic music, solo piano, and (instrumental) jazz.

It's easier for me to say what I don't want: I don't want a "fun," "exciting," "surprising" small speaker that "punches above its weight" (I want an excellent speaker regardless of size). I'm not drawn to a sound that is lean, punchy, forward, or aggressive, and I'm wary of speakers that (over)emphasize resolution. I don't want a cute toy for rich people (which is how Wilson advertises its TuneTots, though it may be a great speaker). I don't like an overly bright, fatiguing upper end. 

I've lived with Maggies for years and I love that relaxed, open, airy sound that doesn't call attention to itself. I appreciate a natural timbre, open soundstage, and "musical" imaging. A warm sound is better than a cool one. I'd like a speaker that can do strings justice at low-to-medium volume. (Yes, I know I'm asking about small speakers here.)

I've read some intriguing things about the Raidho X-1 and XT-1. They'd likely need subs but they're designed for small rooms and get some very positive reviews. I can't tell, though, whether they have the kind of sound I'm describing. I'd appreciate thoughts from anyone who knows them.

Here are some of the other speakers I've been reading about, eliminating speakers that I have no chance of hearing (Wilson-Benesch, Reference 3A, TAD ME-1). 

Boenicke W5
Harbeth (P3ESR or 30.?; I'm a bit flummoxed by the new line)
JA Pulsars
Dutch and Dutch 8C
Focal Sopra or Diablo ($$)
Magico A1
KEF Reference1
Boressen Z1 ($$)
Spendor

I'd love to take any of these off my list if folks think they're not what I'm after in terms of sound or room. I've heard the Harbeths and can do a home trial of them; I've enjoyed hearing the Pulsars but they're rear ported and may need more space from the front wall than I have. And some of these seem a bit physically big to me but maybe that doesn't matter.

Once again, thank you! I really appreciate the knowledge and wisdom out here.



northman
mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,570 posts
 
Northman, I think the Raidho X1 is a great choice but you really need to listen to them first. If you are expecting anything like Maggies forget it.
There are dipole air motion transformers. Mudorf makes one. Using this in a D' Appolito configuration with two good 6 or 7 inch woofers in an open baffle design is an intriguing idea. 
Anyway, fine the nearest Raidho dealer to you that displays the X1 and buy it from them for doing so! You might have to take a trip but you are spending big money so it is worth it.
djones51
4,947 posts
 
Dutch and Dutch 8c, forget the sub you won’t need it in that small room. You won't need the amp or preamp or DAC either just a source.
northman OP
251 posts
 
Thanks to you both.  Yes, @mijostyn, I certainly do plan to listen. And I know that I am not going to reproduce Maggies with a mini monitor; I mentioned Maggies mostly because that's what I know best and because they exhibit some of the acoustic qualities I'm hoping for. I'm wondering, therefore, if the Raidho X1, combined with a pair of subs, would create some of that open, relaxed, beautiful sound. I don't worry about bass so much with small monitors/stand mounts (though obviously that's an issue to be addressed) but rather I worry that they'll sound too bright, clinical, and forward. 

@djones51, I'm on it! You were kind enough to post in my other thread as well. I have a decent preamp and DAC, so I'd have to rethink what to do with them. Also, the dealers within driving distance are ... perhaps not really traditional stereo stores. One is a store for musicians (as in, sells tech gear for stage performances, mics, etc) and the other is ... I'm not sure what, a lifestyle store. But if either has a listening room or a generous home trial policy, I'll give them a listen. They're intriguing. Thank you for recommending them.
djones51
4,947 posts
 
Pro audio stores are the only ones that sell them. I got mine on Reverb from legendary audio pro in NYC. I bought them blind based on reviews and measurements. I figured they would be an easy resell. Maybe you would like Janszen speakers if you like maggies.

https://janszenaudio.com/
soix
9,456 posts
 
You had two of my top recommendations on your list in the Pulsar and W5.  I wouldn’t be too quick to dismiss the JAs if you like them as I’ve seen Jeff make them work very well in small hotel rooms by placing them such that they straddle the corner, so if you have that option they may be fine in your room. .  

I’d just add another excellent option that could save you some $$$ in the Usher Dancer Mini-X Diamond.  I think they’d also offer just about everything you’re looking for and are also front ported for only about $3500.  May well be all the speaker you need in your room.  Hope this helps, and best of luck. 
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