Speakers for string Quartets

Without question - the Quad ESL 57’s are the best for the acoustic music that you like.

The ATC’s would be also - but they’re expensive.

Next choice would be Harbeth 30.1’s / 30.2’s / etc.... which sound very much like the Quad ESL 57’s.  If you want something for near field - the Harbeth P3SR sounds very much like the 30.1's / 30.2's...

But... if you can accept the look of the restored ESL 57’s and have the room and matching electronics - nothing really comes that close, except possibly the 30.1’s / 30.2’s...

In fact... I’m seriously considering the ESL 57’s myself.

I love string quartets. The early and middle Beethoven quartets are fabulous, Dvorak is not bad but I can listen to Cherubini all day long.

As for speakers, only ESLs will do. Nothing, and I do mean nothing else comes even remotely close. My daughter plays violin and the sound of a rosin loaded bow stroking those strings is as frissonous as it gets.

Thanks for the perspective, suggestions. I understand the argument that speakers reproduce sound, not just specific types or instruments.

currently have modified Klipsch Cornwalls,(mods make them similar to Cornwall 4)

they sound great with most music, but give stringed instruments a steely, metallic timbre. Looking for a second set for strings only. Room is pretty well treated, I use REW to take measurements.

As some said I’m looking at British, and Magnepan, investigating electrostatics.
I’m just trying to get some perspectives from other stringed music lovers. Orchestras do very in well, but solo violin/ chamber doesn’t get the tone.

thanks for all the help.

Maggies or ML electrostatics but you might need a more powerful amp.

Well, I agree that I don’t think you buy a speaker for a genre of music, as a good speaker will play all well…..but….

Another vote for Vandersteen. I play a lot of classical both orchestral and quartets, and love the tone and timbre Vandersteen’s provide, especially with quartets….listening to a quartet as I type this.

I have Vandersteen Model 1’s, Model 2 Sigs, and now Treo. The Treo are a step above, especially for classical/quartets. I would highly recommend the Treo, Quatro or above.