Marten Parker Quintet and the Marten Parker Trio Diamond version...if you could choose ?

At shows, the gear that sounds vivid and exciting can make more neutral stuff seem blah.  But, their is the danger that the attention grabbing stuff will become tiring in the long run.  The Parker Trio's did not have immediate, attention grabbing sound, and the person doing the demonstration kept volume at modest levels.  But, I suspect it will sound good in the long run.  There are plenty of speakers that deliver more obvious bass slam, and that may suit rock music, so this is something you will have to judge for yourself.  I think it has adequate bass extension, but, I am not a bass freak.  

I like speakers that sound lively and dynamic when playing at lower volume levels.  That is why I prefer high efficiency, horn-based systems, and certain other systems built around wide-range drivers.  Many modern systems sort of "fake" the kind of dynamics horn systems deliver with such ease by having a tipped up frequency response, thin midbass, and by having a false "edge" to the initial attack to a note that makes them sound fast.  But, that leads to sibilance and a harsh sound.  I did not find the Parkers to be unduly harsh sounding.  Did they have the kind of easy, relaxed sound while still being dynamic and "fast" like a good horn system?  Not quite, but much closer than most systems.  On the plus side, they lacked the kind of coloration that attends most horn systems (no nasal or shouty quality).  They were, to me a good, albeit somewhat pricey system.  

I spent 20 hours listening to Marten Parker Trio with Luxman L509x, DartZeel LHC208, Hegel H390 and the sound was disappointing to the point that I suspect something is wrong with the demo pair. All electronics and speakers were fully broken in.

While low end had great resolution and slam, midrange and upper region were recessed making speaker sound veiled, dark and far from engaging. Room was large and live - it became apparent these puppies require power. 

Another MAJOR issue in my eyes, is that Marten is much more expensive in US than in Europe that makes them a poor choice for North American buyers. 

I don't trust my listening ability until I get something at home. 

I think it was 2018. Carolyn and George Counnas were demonstrating their Zesto Phono, Line and Amplifiers sourced by a Merrill and Williams R.E.A.L. 101.3 / Triplanar turntable with an all Cardas Beyond loom to the Marten Parker Trio's in one of the smaller hotel rooms.

Maybe it was play selections and / or their ability to setup, that system could really jump in that space. 

The next year I think they demonstrated the same components driving the smaller Joseph Audio Perspective which seemed to provide very similar jump and elegant presentation. 

Size may matter but I really enjoyed those demos. All the best with your search. 

I am the OP of this thread and I ended up buying Verity Audio's new Arindal speakers.I did not go with the Marten Line large in part due to the total lack of interest from the US Importer ; Vanna LTD who never returned my phone calls inquiring on their product line. I finally was able to locate a US Dealer who is located in Chicago and was met with total arrogance by the owner when I inquired about this line of speakers. I refuse to do business with that type of dealer and him in particular who I felt I was doing him a favor by buying the speakers from him........total jerk. During this time I came into contact with a gentleman who was selling a pair of mint Marten Mingus Diamonds at a very competitive [price compared to the new Marten's I was looking at. I did not buy them for the fear which could be viewed as self proclaimed that if there was ever a need for any repair or if I had any issues with the speakers, that I would not have any support here in the US from anybody. That was a definite concern of mine. Too bad as they are a good speaker with the right equipment. FWIW ; I worked with Paul Manos who is the US Distributor for Verity and was nothing short of professional, courteous and returned as well as initiated multiple phone conversations during the purchase. So look into Verity if you are looking at this type of speaker. Stay well and safe all.....             

garebear

Thank You for the follow up and sharing your Marten experience. Your example is becoming more and more commonplace with these Distributor(s) and Dealers/Retailers. Nice move purchasing Verity Audio.

I would have done the same, plus "call out" those guys around Marten.

Back in December I had a similar experience with Audio Limits, NV. regarding Hemingway Audio cables. I am glad that Hemingway moved on to a new Distributor and Dealer Retailer -Highend By Oz in CT.

Addendum: I would certainly inform Marten by email or phone expressing your Experience.

Happy Listening!