Klipsch Chorus II or Forte II - Secondary system


I have a secondary system in my basement that's been neglected for years. It's a combination of Rotel electronics combined with a pair a DCM TimeWindow 1a speakers. They are nice speakers, but I really have no reason to listen to them when my main listening system has Vandersteen speakers that do everything better.

I've decided to shake things up a bit by going a completely different path with the sound of my second system. I want to go from the more laid back sound of the the DCM's to a more in-your-face rock sound.

I've narrowed my choice to a set of Klipsch Forte II or Chorus II's based on whats locally available and price. I'm looking for opinions from anyone that's listened to these. The Forte II's have a better bottom end, but the Chorus II's are generally regarded as a better speaker. My preference would be to NOT use a subwoofer.

Thanks!
mustangjeff
I can't tell you which to choose but I have the original forte' and it is an outstanding speaker, period. For your application of rocking out in the basement I believe it would be great. If you get them in corners or near the wall placement you will not need a sub. You might just find yourself spending a lot of time with the secondary system. Good luck.

Cheers,
I've listened to the Forte's in the past, but it's probably been about 20 years or so. I remember listening to the Nirvana Nevermind CD when it was first released and thought the speakers had great punch.

I agree about the 180 on sound style. The DCM's share some of the same smooth, non fatiguing, laid back characteristic that the Vandersteens have. That's why they get ignored. I'm looking for something where I can regress into younger years and play some Zepplin loud :)

The Chorus II's look really interesting, but it's counter intuitive to me that a physically larger speaker with a bigger woofer won't dig as deep. From what I've read they have a bigger sound, but in a basement it's probably overkill.
You should buy that pair of Cornwalls that were just listed here on Agon. Problem solved.

Shakey
When I was researching classic Klipsch speakers i repeatedly came across people saying Forte I or Chorus II were the two to pick over the Forte II or the Chorus I.
Get the forte II's. "Manageable" size compared to the Chorus II's and IMO one of the most balanced speakers Klipsch has ever built. They will shine with the best classic rock and at the same time be as subtle with acoustic guitar. Very well rounded speaker.

Shakeydeal's suggestion of Cornwalls would also do the trick.

Bill