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recommended speakers for Raven Blackhawk 3.1

I could really use some advice from the Audiogon community regarding speakers to pair with my Raven Blackhawk (20watt) tube amp?  Currently I have B&W 802 series 80 with a REL s812s sub and the speakers are just too inefficient (85db).  I've listened to Klipsche Forte IV's and LaScalas and was not impressed.  I've considered the Reference 3A  MM De Capo BE  or B&W 705 S2 but have not heard them yet.  I've also considered the Dynaudio Special 40 but not sure the amp will drive them sufficiently.  My budget is around $3K whether used or new.  Any suggestions from others out there in the Audiogon community?

hififanatic
lak's avatar
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lak
4,626 posts
 

Check out the ZU Audio speakers either new as they are currently taking preorders and/or might have some models that are available within your price range or buy on the used market. 

 

jerryg123's avatar
jerryg123
3,429 posts
 

What about Raven CeLest towers. May know of a pair you could get for under your budget.

Part Time Audiophile gave them a real good review. 

soix
9,456 posts
 

Well, by choosing this amp you’ve severely limited your choice in speakers that I’m sure your finding out now, so I really hope you love that amp.  Zu and Ref 3a are solid choices, but I think the sound signature of the 3a would better produce the upper-octave detail you’re probably used to with your 802s.  A used pair of Spatial Audio M-series or Coincident Technology speakers would also be worth looking into.  Best of luck. 

bigmac1963
56 posts
 

I have the dynaudio special forty’s and a raven audio nighthawk m2 not enough power for those speakers.

jerryg123's avatar
jerryg123
3,429 posts
 

@soix is right you will want to look for a efficient speaker in the 89db + range.

Raven Blackhawk is a very good entry level tube integrated.

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