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JBL L65 vs Forte III vs Cornwall IV

Any thoughts on which of these options sounds best to you? I have the JBLs, they’ve been well maintained and sound very good but, after 42 years, am kicking around the idea of moving them to my workshop if either of the Klipsch is a jaw-dropping step up.

Listening preferences are all over the map but jazz/blues/non-metal pop/rock predominantly....very little classical/bluegrass/country.

Listening space is less than ideal - one end of an “open” floor plan with speakers on long wall...usable listening space is 12.5’ x 16’. With the L65s, my listening position is 9-10 foot from speakers.

Amp is a PrimaLuna Prologue Classic integrated, currently running stock preamp section tubes and GL KT 77s.

Thanks in advance.
lg1
quincy
356 posts
 
I had the privilege of owning a pair of L65's from 1978 until 2009.
Had to sell them due to a job loss along with my Marantz 2285.....
I'm sorry I did.
My advice....Keep them!  Most likely they need surrounds, unless you have already replaced them.
They sound better than Klipsch, which are a bit 'tinny' in my opinion.
Put them where you wish, but don't sell them!
mickeyb
585 posts
 
I’ve had them all. I miss the jubals the most. Just a great speaker with those crystal slot tweeters. Too bad I sold them. At least my buddy bought them and loves them. 
hshifi
572 posts
 
Hello,
I agree with Ozzy. Go with the CW speakers. You might need to add a sub to keep the low end of the JBLs. You will be happier with the detail out of the Klipsch CW. If you buy the Forte line you will wish you had upgraded to the CWs in a couple months. Both are good near the wall. BTW, sell the JBLs instead of keeping as a garage speaker. I’m sure you can find some old pioneers for $100 to throw in your garage. 
gliderman2m's avatar
gliderman2m
26 posts
 
The original poster mentioned “workshop,” which may be a lot nicer and climate controlled vs a garage. I am betting he spends some quality time out there , hence the need for some 42 yr old JBL soeakers. Sounds like a good idea to me! 
jet88
62 posts
 
Another vote for the Cornwall IVs. I too listen to a very wide range of music; classical, jazz, world, electronic, ultra heavy... The Cornwalls do it all with deep, tight bass to rich mid-range to sparkling highs. They'll sing with your amp!

Like any quality speakers, room and placement makes a big difference but you can't go wrong with them if you love horns, at the price they sell for. I scored mine brand new for $5k and love them.
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