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New speaker technology vs. Old speaker tech???

The following is an issue that many members may have encountered: that is, buying an old speaker (vintage 10-12 years old) vs buying a newer and more current technology created by better driver material and using for example a ribbon tweeter, vs traditional silk or aluminum tweeter.

A friend recently purchased a monitor made by Monitor Audio, GX-50 Gold series. which uses a ribbon tweeter. His other choice was a VonSchweikert VR-1, a two way small monitor hailed by many reviewer for its tight bass almost down to 40-45HZ.

I liked the Monitor Audio GX-50, but did not want to influence his final decision. However, the more I listened to them, they sounded somewhat bright and edgy on several "redbook" CD's. He liked VonSchweikert VR-1, they seemed to him more balanced and the bass had real punch. However, he opted for the MA's because he felt the newer technology overall would be more competitive in producing good and detailed sound

Like my friend, I have often get caught up by the technology of new speakers,and ignore what sounds better and satisfying regardless of the music The VR-1 are very good speakers, and usually don't last long on Audiogon when they come around for sale. However, sometimes a mystique emerges around a speaker because of its unexpected performance that elevates it beyond its spec.

Would like to get some input on this "dilemma", especially the reputation of Von Schweikert VR-1 for being "more than sum of its parts"

sunnyjim
phusis's avatar
phusis
1,146 posts
 
had a good chuckle reading your definition of "vintage"! What then do you call the Klipsch LaScala, Klipsch corner horns, KEF 105, B&W Matrix series speakers, Tannoy HPD, Tannoy Gold???

My thought as well.

My take on the vintage vs. modern speaker question is to somehow prefer vintage designs that are modernized in certain areas - like cross-over and driver/horn refinements. Basically rather traditional designs from a time where no-excuse, functional aspects seemed to weigh more than marketing-driven technological "advancements."
larryi
3,801 posts
 
There are not that many "modern" horn drivers that even come close to comparing with some very old designs, apart from some attempts at exactly replicating those old horn drivers (the Japanese G.I.P. drivers, for example). Those modern, non-replica horn drivers that are really good are also terribly expensive, such as ALE drivers (a set of drivers cost more than a house). What else do folks put up as examples of modern compression/horn drivers that can compete with the best old stuff: Avantgarde?
wim1983's avatar
wim1983
221 posts
 
I just found out that there is a site, Human speakers Web site, that repair old speakers like EPI and Genesis, what do you guys think? Good? There is some new speakers based on EPI is being created, Human 81. Price darn tempting...I'm not sure the Human technology works? Look at the bottom of the product list, inHUMAN speakers, haha a nice joke!
hifisoundguy
630 posts
 
ALL speaker drivers should use "ALNICO MAGNETS"!! I see that RYAN speakers makes their own speaker drivers....I wonder if they use ALNICO MAGNETS ?
royj's avatar
royj
151 posts
 
Hi Bombaywalla,

It is good to be back. Working on many new things that have just come out. Hope you are well.

I thought a few folks might have posted their thoughts on my statements above, about how and why large audio manufacturers 'schedule' their new technology introductions. But at least these will be there for others who search out threads bearing this sort of title.

I wish to add that far too many audiophiles are distracted by technology or even totally fascinated by it. It completely occupies their minds, which contents them.

These same people always describe how much better their music 'sounds' by its increase in "clarity, impact, detail, soundstage, imaging, depth, dynamics, ..."

They never remark about how their favorite music changed for them, changed in what it meant to them, what it did to them, for them, where it took them, ...

Either they are insensitive to the subtleties of music (and not natural dancers) -OR- their systems/physical setups do not reveal HOW BEAUTIFULLY the world's best artists are playing just for them.

Ever have any thoughts along these lines?

Best,
Roy
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