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Seeking speakers under $3K for 10x12 ft room and driven by 20wpc tube amp

I currently have a pair of Apogee Acoustics Centaur Minors driven by a new Black Ice integrated tube amp. The small but dedicated listening room means I’m doing near-field listening with me and the speakers forming a 6’ triangle. As you might expect, these speakers have terrific midrange but at 85dB sensitivity they are a bit difficult to drive and feel limited in dynamics. The room is acoustically treated.


I almost exclusively listen to small combo acoustic jazz and vocals and I’m seeking recommendations for something easier to drive and more dynamic that provides a more “palpable presence” of the musicians when played at louder levels. Prefer small floorstanders for aesthetics but not essential and preferably a brand where I might have a chance to audition them (I’m in SoCal). Also open to used (e.g. something like Wilson Cubs). TIA!

p.s. thanks for the Sonus faber suggestion.

ristretto
snookhaus
11 posts
 

I have a similar size room, but no treatment. I ended up with Neat Acoustics Petite. If you are considering a British style speaker, I would give them a try. I have driven them with an LTA Z10 and an Orchid Audio GAN amp. They have some interesting floor standers. 

I've had the Omega Super Alnico's. I enjoyed them for Jazz. For me, they definitely needed a sub. 

Sonus Faber or Serblins are on my list to try at some point. 

cdc
1,785 posts
 

Devore Micro O's

peipaul
15 posts
 

reference 3a mm de capo be

if you can find them used less than 2K.

92db and excellent soundstage, detail,  dynamics and low level listening I use them with Raven Audio Blackhawk.

doubt you would be able to demo though

the Linton's are also good but no where near the detail or dynamics

 

pennfootball71's avatar
pennfootball71
278 posts
 

Sonus Faber in your price range is made pretty bad!

I would get something more sensitive from a DIY brand like GR Research.

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,830 posts
 

I have Omega S.A.M. and they sound great but I would not recommend them if you like playing loud.  They'll play fairly loud but push them too much and they lose their composure.  As mentioned , need a sub

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