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Non-fatiguing speakers in $10K range?

Some years ago I downsized to headphones only. Now I have access to a dedicated room again, so getting my absorption panels and ASC Tube traps back from storage... :-) The amp is going to be Accuphase E-800. I like class A, and I owned fair share of Pass gear but Pass integrated (and lower preamps) no longer have tape loop. I also like my gear to look the way I enjoy and Pass went too industrial for me.

Anyway, long story short. Speakers. I prefer relaxed, non-fatiguing sound. My headphones are Meze Elites and I love them. I also own Focal Utopia, but rarely listen to them, too forward for me.

Now, music-wise I do not listen to jazz or classical or vocals, sorry. Classic rock, hard rock, 80s new wave, punk, pop (classic and modern) and African blues like Tinariwen. People tend to insta-suggest forward sounding speakers - you like metal, right???. But I don't like piercing sound and I rarely go to concerts exactly because of this. I listen to AC/DC but NOT at 'realistic' revels. I like rhythm, melody, but I don't care about 120 Db.

The budget is about $10K, give or take, most probably second hand, but I can buy new, if I really like it. Unfortunately, there are not that many high end shops around Seattle with gear I like. Some went selling vintage and some went up selling only $100K+ systems. So most probably will be getting something blind.

It seems I should be looking for ribbon tweeters, I spent hours at youtube - it is definitely not listening in person, but some recordings are pretty decent and many show differences between speaker models.

I also compare frequency response measurements - I can easily tell that I won't like the speaker by looking at the chart. Ex, bump around 2-6K is a no-no since this is what "bright" is. Dip is actually good since this is what makes sound less "in your face/ear".

So far I more-or-less narrowed my search down to Legacy (Signature or Focus), Dali 8, ProAc (D48 or K) and - maybe - Magico A3? Legacy is huge, I am not sure I really need 20Hz extension. Magico has beryllium tweeters which may be bright....

I purchased Tannoy D700 many years ago, still own them, they are part of my TV set up. They sound good, but not as good as I would like it. My desktop speakers are ribbons too - AirPulse, I like them quite a bit.

Anything else I am missing?

mikhailark
kensstereo
9 posts
 

Another vote for Goldenear triton reference. 

Once properly  set-up, they sound great! 

gramophone_canada
47 posts
 

Vancouver BC is not far, and you might be able to hear a few speakers in your price range that are not available in Seattle to hear. With the currency exchange being very advantageous to US shoppers. I also recommend the Fink Team KIM, with the driver level adjustments on the rear of the speaker, you can help tailor the speaker to your room and your hearing preference. Liquid Sound in Vancouver has both the KIM and BORG E2 available.The KIM is slightly above your price zone but should be heard.

Have some fun!

sudnh
96 posts
 

For a non-fatigue audio system in your price range the components and cables will matter just as much as the speakers.

in this price range most components and speakers covered by high-end mags perform well. It’s attention to cables that will keep your audio system low ear fatigue. 

You make no mention of cables so I no idea what you are using now.

if you understand this honest audiophiles can provide more guidance.

if you are focusing on speakers only then good luck.

subterranean6's avatar
subterranean6
37 posts
 

DeVore Fidelity or Sons Faber. 

hysteve
80 posts
 

I’m 71 and I don’t find my Magico A3s too bright at all. I love them and wouldn’t trade them for anything, save maybe the A5. But I don’t think my dedicated room size is large is enough (or my wife’s tolerance 😆). Virtually all other equipment ie cables, DACs, power supplies, etc. all influence brightness too and you need to have a comb that fits your ear with any speaker. 

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