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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
northman OP
251 posts
 
I've been looking at so many websites, some that sell new and some that sell used pieces, and it's such a mixture. On the one hand, many people, stuck at home, are investing in stereo equipment, creating long waits for speakers, etc. And on the other hand, there are too many people having to sell their gear for financial reasons. I feel like I'm in both camps: at home and eager for the pleasure and escape of a listening room, and at the same time worrying about my job, my kids' education, and so on.

@djones51, I'm sorry to hear that you have to sell those speakers. It's clear you love them. I hope that the medical situation resolves, that the world returns to normal, and that you can have those speakers (and/or others!) back in your life soon.
yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,674 posts
 
@northman
If you are worried about your kids education and your job why would you be a lookin’ at some of those high priced speakers like some of the ones on your list? Just curious!
djones51
4,947 posts
 
Someone asked me why I was selling them, can't remember the user name but he/she deleted both posts. Didn't bother me. Stuff happens gotta roll with the punches. 
northman OP
251 posts
 
@yogiboy , I don't think my personal situation is especially unusual (or anyone's business). I was not expressing my personal anxiety so much as sympathizing with a fellow 'Goner who is forced to sell beloved speakers. 

We're all worried about the pandemic and its effects on the economy, jobs, education, and so on. The speakers I'm looking at are within my means, but the world is so unstable that it's hard for anyone to be too confident of what the future holds. I would imagine that most folks out here are in the same situation, asking themselves: is this the right moment to buy that new amp? Is this the right moment to invest in the stock market? How do I put my recreational needs (those speakers!) into the context of a world that is teetering on the brink?

Also, you refer to "those high priced speakers," but "high priced" is relative. I just read a Stereophile review of Harbeth P3esr and the reviewer called the price ($3500 at the time, I think) "chickenfeed." Well, to most of the world $3500 is a TON of money to spend on speakers; in the audiophile world, that may be considered a modest investment. 

In short, while I appreciate your concern about my personal finances, you needn't be. I'm just in the same boat as everyone else, trying to make sense of a fragile world.
verdantaudio's avatar
verdantaudio
1,499 posts
 
A few thoughts - the Raidho X-1s are a brilliant speaker.  They deliver a huge soundstage and definitely are not bright.  Amp pairing is critical, as is placement.  I have owned these personally before I was in the business and have had them as a dealer.  

AMTs are not inherently aggressive and bright in terms of sound profile. They can be when implementation is poor.  When implementation is right, they offer amazing detail and can be wonderful.  Audiovector is a great example of this.  

In the end, that is a respectable list that offers a wide range of sound profiles.  I might swap a couple, but that is my bias.  Amp choice with all of them is critical with all of them for them to be at their best but that can't be shocking.  
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