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Speakers for string Quartets

Hi, I know already this is not a great question to ask, but…I’m looking for speakers that will only be used for string quartets.  Looking for something that will give me some of he sound of the body of the violin, not just strings. Looking for transparency with great tone, but don’t care too much about bass.
I have a large room, but never listen above 80db

current amps are Pass xa25, first watt F8, Aric Audio Single ended kt88, PS Audio m700.

just looking to really hear the violins, cellos. 
hHopefully the narrow range of music can reduce the list of prospects.

thanks

 

caglioti
fatdaddy2
441 posts
 

Klipsch Forte IV.  Hard to beat for the intensity and body of bowed strings, especially once you get to the cello.

jasonbourne52's avatar
jasonbourne52
2,863 posts
 

Quad 57's are hard to equal for midrange richness!

richopp
760 posts
 

Unfortunately,the Quads, as good as they are, cause listening fatigue rather quickly.

IF you have quality electronics, I recommend you try Magneplaners IN YOUR ROOM.  If they are set up properly with quality electronics, you should be pleased.

If not, I guess keep auditioning speakers IN YOUR ROOM until you find one you like.

Cheers!

wspohn's avatar
wspohn
614 posts
 

While you don't NEED a separate system for acoustic string music, I have a hard time parting with gear from old systems so tend to assemble them into systems with certain strengths.

My 'string system' is a pair of original Martin Logan CLS powered by a large Class A amp (Classe DR3 VHC). It is magic for acoustic strings.

 

The chap that suggested Quad ESL 57s was on the same wavelength. Both are fast enough to reproduce the subtleties of low level strings.  You might think that you'd miss out on the low bass, but even a stand-up bass fan will be happy as those speakers are fine with the 250-500 Hz low end usual for that instrument (although they will play lower).  My CLS are 3 dB down at 45 Hz. The Quads are good to 50 Hz,

ieales's avatar
ieales
1,201 posts
 

No one mentioned time coherence. Quads got me interested in coherent speakers more than ½c ago.

Vandersteens are pretty good. Maggies can be if set up properly. Spice TC-50 on stands with sub in a good room can transport you.

Tri-amped, time corrected Eminent Tech LFT-8b w dual subs are outstanding! 😉

With 650 wpc, they will make you duck in the finale of the 1812 or have you stomping along with Queen’s "We Will Rock You". Jaqueline du Pre and YoYo Ma live  here!

Small string ensembles in a good room are extremely rich in coherent harmonics.

Speakers plastered on a flat plate are never going to cut it.

 

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