2. speakers
  3. 193412-202275

From Audio Note AN/J-D to where?

Dear fellow music enthusiasts,

I recently posted my first thread in the amplifier forum regarding tube-based amplifiers, as I am looking to make significant upgrades to my system.

Currently, I use Audio Note AN/J-D speakers, which I purchased used as an introduction to high-fidelity audio. Despite being entry-level, I find them quite enjoyable, with a natural and detailed presentation. Having listened to them for over a year, I now feel ready to upgrade.

The most straightforward option for me would be to move up to the Audio Note AN-E SPe/HE, as I have a nearby dealer, making it a convenient choice. However, after spending time researching and exploring high-fidelity audio, I realize that there are many exciting alternatives worth considering.

Even as a relative newcomer, I’ve noticed that there are different "schools" of thought in high-fidelity audio. Some listeners prefer high-powered solid-state amplifiers with highly technological speakers, whereas I am more drawn to tube-based amplifiers with simple yet meticulously crafted designs and high-efficiency speakers that deliver a natural, dynamic, and intimate listening experience. I find inspiration in Japanese audiophiles and their horn-loaded systems powered by tube amplifiers, as well as in open baffle systems, field coil drivers, and AlNiCo-based designs.

A friend recently recommended that I explore Schertler speakers, which seem fantastic, but I suspect they may not suit my listening room (which is 25 square meters with 2.7m high ceilings). I was also pointed toward the Swissonor B.A.C.H. 12d, which, like Audio Note speakers, require corner placement and therefore appeal to me. Shindo Latourspeakers are highly intriguing, but they are difficult to find second-hand, and I am hesitant to purchase used speakers online unless from a trusted seller. I have also heard excellent things about vintage Altecs, Lowther, and Tannoy.

I am less familiar with open baffle systems, though it seems many enthusiasts pursue DIY projects by pairing high-quality drivers (such as those by Atelier Rullit/Oleg Rullit) with custom-built cabinets. Unfortunately, I am not particularly skilled in DIY (as my girlfriend often reminds me!), so this may not be the right path for me—at least for now.

I would truly appreciate your insights, experiences, and recommendations. For the price of the Audio Note AN-E SPe/HE (approximately $9,700), are there alternative options that might better align with my preferences? I sometimes wonder whether well-established brands command a premium over lesser-known manufacturers that may offer comparable or superior performance at a more competitive price.

Apologies for the somewhat scattered nature of my post—these are simply my thoughts and reflections, and I would love to invite all of you to share your advice, perspectives, and suggestions.

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!

 

Best regards from Denmark. 

apollinaire
apollinaire OP
13 posts
 

Thanks for all the recommendations. I will try to study each and everyone of them carefully.

 

The easy and most obvious choice will be the AN-E SPe/HE. I like their natural tone and I also like their classic, sophisticated designs. It might sound silly but for me I also appreciate that speakers are nice to look at and have in your room. 

 

My point with Audio Note is that they offer high quality, high-end speakers. It appears though that AlNiCo and Field Coil versions are quite expensive and it may be possible to reach to the same level/quality by looking into smaller brands that aren't as popular as Audio Note. 

 

I have been studying Swissonor B.A.C.H. 12D, a 2-way coaxial and coplanar loudspeaker with Tractrix-horn. I must get to know more about the whole technical aspect since I can't say what a 2-way coaxial solution with bring and how the Tractrix horn is great (or not). 

 

 

chenry's avatar
chenry
231 posts
 

Avantgarde has a dealer in København.

avanti1960
1,532 posts
 

@apollinaire 

I had the AN/ J LX Hemp speakers for a while and really liked them but they were occasionally sibilant in the treble and while the midrange was nice it seemed to be a bit recessed that I would prefer.  

After much thought I purchased the Spendor D7.2 speakers and have had them for almost (3) years.  The Spendors are wonderful sounding speakers with appropriate bass and warmth, openly transparent midrange and the treble is smooth, delicate and easily enjoyable.  The star of the show however is soundstage and dynamics.  They are quick and nimble to the point of dynamically separating differences in transient response and attack as well as separating the musical elements clearly.  The sound stage is quite large and multi dimensional and the music has a kaleidescope effect where different sounds jump out like fireworks displays.  

They are 90db efficient and worked well with my push pull tube amp.  The D7.2 or even the D9.2 are worthy of consideration.  Not the last word in audiophile bling and status but Spendor is a company that really know what they are doing and you can hear it.  

Good luck with your process! 

atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,993 posts
 

@apollinaire You might consider the DeVore Fidelity O96 which is very easy to drive with lower powered tube amps but has wider bandwidth.

chrisoshea
410 posts
 

Another vote for staying with Audio Note speakers. If you are interested in another, new experience, consider a second system with a different approach. ..Maybe some Magnepans? It’s fun to have multiple systems with different sounds to enjoy.

Another idea to consider, if you move from AN to a different sound and don’t need the cash from you current AN Js...Keep them for a second system or as a back-up if the new sound loses its charm after a few months or years.

More to discover