Where Do I Go from Here?


As I neared my 75th birthday, I decided that it was time for my “end game” audio system. Thus, for the past 2-1/2 years, I have slowly and carefully upgraded my sources, my amplification, and my cabling – with very pleasing results. At this time, I have:

Digital – Bricasti M19 SACD transport and M21 DAC; Shunyata Sigma V2 Ethernet and DH Labs Air Matrix Cryo analog interconnect cables.

Analog – Technics SL-1200G turntable w/Ortofon headshell; Hana SL cartridge; Cardas Clear Cygnus phono cable; PS Audio Stellar phono amplifier; Wireworld Eclipse 8 interconnect cables.

Amplification – Theta Digital Casablanca V preamplifier; McIntosh MC611 mono amplifiers (L, C, & R); Wireworld Silver Eclipse 8 speaker cables and Eclipse 8 analog interconnects.

Currently, I own Revel Ultima Studio (L & R) and Voice (center) loudspeakers as well as two SVS SB-16 subwoofers. I purchased all three Revel speakers in 2004, and they have served me well for the past 20 years. Except when listening to multi-channel SACD for watching Blu-ray concerts, I only use my main left and right speakers. My media room has four walls and a door; its size is around 6,000 cubic feet.

What I have been wrestling with is whether, given my other equipment (which I have no intent on replacing), I should buy new speakers and, if so, which should I consider. Recently, for example, I listened to a pair of Rockport’s Avior IIs, albeit using source components and amplifiers different than mine. They seemed perhaps better in some regards, but not so much so as to make a compelling case to purchase them as an upgrade. Another friend, who just acquired his PS Audio FR30 speakers, is urging me to consider buying a pair of the FR30s.

There certainly are numerous speaker lines out there. Consequently, I decided to post my “dilemma” here and invite others to provide their suggestions (ideally with their reasoning). My absolute top budget is $50K. However, this purchase would be funded by my retirement savings, and I certainly would prefer spending less. Also, maybe the better course is to keep my Revels and be happy and content with what I already have.

Many thanks for your reading this entire posting.

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@jmeyers 

What components were being used when you heard the Avior ii speakers? I have the Avior ii as well and they are phenomenal. Good luck in your search! 

Congratulations on building a beautiful system. 
 

So it sounds like neither of three dealers want to do an in-home trial which I do believe is both worth doing and justified at this price point  

I’m not in the market for speakers, but did recently hear some Pearlstein At my local T+A Dealer when buying my DAC 200 recently…. I would like to hear them in my home one day
 

You can do that with a 60 day home trial from https://audiolab.com/product/perlisten-s7t-floor-standing-tower-speakers/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw74e1BhBnEiwAbqOAjF-Ybp13SaC8-jJqLqQfeeF2rhkNg76uon2GTAHr3p84ryO09aJlXRoC330QAvD_BwE

Considering your budget versus the cost of these speakers, you can certainly afford to pay return shipping on a couple of different choices from Internet dealers like this, considering no one “ Local to you” Wants to play ball…

I’m planning a drive to Colorado to check out the PS Audio speakers. I’d like to get the FR30’s, but I might have to get the 20’s, because my room isn’t all that big.

I’ll let you know what I end up with and why.

You can't have too many speakers.  I would take $10k of your money and use it just for you journey.  Go and listen to as much and many as you possibly can.  I believe I currently have somewhere around 10 pairs of different speakers.  They all have their own voice.  A few years ago I was visiting my son in San Diego and my wife and son humored me and allowed me to visit a stereo store.  They had a room with a million dollar system set up.  It sounded really nice, but it didn't curl my toes.  They also had some speakers that were in the $10-$20k range.  Total toe curlers.  We all have unique ears.  Take the time and find a toe curler. 

Plus 1 for the several different speakers it's like a choir many can be interesting.enjoy the trip and search I have met many wounderful people along the way going across  America picking up speakers over the past year from coast to coast.some of it is just part of an adventure.enjoy the music stay healthy. The fr 30s are heavy but I think they ps audio have people to help set up in home.i too hope to go to boulder soon.