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Ascend Sierra 1 vs Triangle Borea BR08

I decided to upgrade my current bookshelf speakers (Infinity R162s). I've settled on 2 options based on some reviews: 

  • Ascend Sierra 1 (on sale for 680/ pair) 
  • Triangle Borea BR08 (on sale for 800/ pair) 
I'm newer to audio stuff, but I felt it was a good time to upgrade. My current system and listening area: 

  • Denon AVR-X2600H (95WPC) 
  • HSU VTF2 MK5 
  • Fluance RT-85 (Nagaoka MP150) 
  • Art DJ Pre II (12V power supply upgrade) 
  • 24'x15' living/dining area with 9' ceilings
  • Not treated and can't be because WAF
  • Opening to kitchen and staircase 
  • Listening Position about 7-8 feet from speakers currently
Originally I thought the Triangle might fill the space better and I like that is 3-way. That said I've heard some middling reviews about response.

Sierra 1s are at a great price, and I would assume better quality. What I'm concerned about is achieving adequate volume in the space.

I value accuracy above volume, but I don't want it to sound anemic in space. I will probably end up just trying both and judging for myself, but curious as to your opinions. 

Thanks! This is my first post here. 
coolhandduke
coolhandduke OP
46 posts
 
@b_limo 

We shall see. 3-way, bigger cabinet, Chinese budget model vs. 2-way, smaller, bamboo, US made, and upgradeable to their high-end model.
b_limo's avatar
b_limo
2,290 posts
 
True, but the drivers in the bro’s still look nice.  No cast baskets...stamped rather, but nice sized magnets and good venting.  The cabs are decently braced too. The Bros are going to be more dynamic in my guess.

I am curious to see what you prefer though!

That AVR needs to go!  Is this a surround set-up or...?  Im confused because you have a vinyl setup but no 2 channel amp.
coolhandduke OP
46 posts
 
@b_limo

The AVR is new. It struck a good balance for me right now. Decent power, lots of lossless streaming capability, good DAC, video inputs, room correction (I’ve EQd below 300hz and it’s pretty incredible). Of course separate audiophile components sounds appealing, but this works for my space right now. No integrated amplifier had all the things I wanted. Maybe one day I can afford a high end Anthem or something with Dirac.

I’ll report back when I’ve had a chance with both of them.
coolhandduke OP
46 posts
 
Got both pairs of speakers yesterday and hooked them up this morning. I'm no veteran, but my impressions so far: 

  • Sierra 1 - these are on a different level to what I've heard before. There is detail, clarity and an openness that is incredibly exciting. Instruments are very well defined and separated. I don't find these warm or bright, but just very easy to listen to. I ended up with a full toe-in with these. They are about 7 feet apart and 7 feet from me. 
  • Borea BR08 - these guys are bigger than I expected. Solid build, even if basic. They are more sensitive than the Sierras and create more of a "wall of sound" in my room. However, the sound quality seems more similar to my Infinity R162s, just bigger and more defined. 
I'll take more time with these, but I'm leaning towards the Sierra. The Triangles make for a more rocking speaker, but the Sierra seems to just be on a different level.
toro3's avatar
toro3
394 posts
 
Your impression of the Sierra 1s being easy to listen to reminded me of why I enjoyed this speaker so much. When I had them I remember listening for hours without any listener fatigue. They were constantly playing in the background on the weekends or in the evening. I’d be curious to see where you land on your decision after some extended listening sessions between the two. Seems like there’s a lot of value from those Triangles - especially for the price.
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