Thiel CS6

As an absolute, against other current models, or personally? This is still my main speaker for the past 10 years and they seem to perform better each year. Local audio buddies of mine agree. They are of solid design, coherent, a bit difficult to drive, extended, smooth, dynamic, fussy about placement (they sound best in my room pointed straight ahead)and heavy. But, at today's prices on the preowned market, a true bargain. The only speaker I would prefer over the CS6 is the Vandersteen 5A.

Though very fine speakers in their own right, in the past, I've always thought that the CS6's were the poorest value in the Thiel lines. The newer SCS4T might now be the poorest value in the Thiel lines.

I had some for 10 years and loved them. Had to get rid of them when I moved as they were too big (visually) for the new audio room.

You can find some great deals on them here at the 'goN.

They are fast like planars, but have a deep strong bass and create a large soundstage- especially with vinyl. Like my experience with planers, they disappear in the music. The downside is that they demand the best amplification, cabling and front end components that you can buy. Like Bundy said, they need space. I like how they look and the light oak color of the ones that I have (nearly) match the color of my tt. I like the symmetry of that. I am very satisfied with these speakers. I do not get the chance too often these days to hear other speakers but there is only one other brand that, if I had the means I might buy- might.