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Raven celeste competitors/alternatives

Lately I've been fixated on The Raven nighthawk/Celeste combo for $7k-ish price.
There may be better systems to build from used sales here, but I'm fearful I would spend the money and not get great sound or  synergy in the system [who wants to help:-) ] I've never had tubes before, so I'm  toying with the idea of getting a raven nighthawk.  To do so, I would have to get rid of my current speakers. The raven celeste would be an obvious consideration on my budget (my current speaks are revel f208), but I'm not crazy about the looks of the celeste, and I have a small living room so other options exist. I'd appreciate input on the celeste or alternatives to consider that will work with everything from industrial, rock, and 80's to female vocalists and jazz funk?  Just curious and dreaming at the moment. No urgent deadline to pull the trigger but soon enough that I don't blow my tax return elsewhere may be a good idea. Lol. Thanks.
labguy
jperry
2,486 posts
 
This is what all direct sellers hoping to cut out normal retailers hope for with their potential customers. There is no problem returning it and you are not "that guy" if you return it. Returns are built into their business model.

Brick and mortar dealers offer home trials and loaners as well. 

I would not use either type of seller for a home trial unless I was serious, but it sounds like you are serious so try it out.

labguy OP"Trying a Raven amp with the Revel is not a bad idea since I could return it in 45 days (I'd just hate to be that guy)."
sfar's avatar
sfar
1,773 posts
 
I suspect if most people returned the Raven amp after the home trial Raven Audio would no longer be offering the trial.
ozzy62's avatar
ozzy62
3,430 posts
 
I don't think they get many returns. That said, there used to be no restocking fee, only shipping both ways if you were unsatisfied. Now they have a 7% restocking fee which is likely to dissuade some tire kickers.

Oz



snapsc
687 posts
 
I heard the Raven Celest at the 2020 Florida Audio Show...not sure which Raven amp they were driven by....the show rooms are not great rooms...maybe 15x25....speakers set up on the long wall, seating position maybe 9’ back....they were not polite and soft....To me, they were outstanding, musical, compelling...I went back to the room three times I was so surprised.


I currently have Salk Veracity ST...and if I were looking to change, the Celest would definitely be on my short list.
tubebuffer
417 posts
 
Why these amplifier come with towel racks on them?
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