The best speaker you ever heard?

The best speakers I've ever heard are the Sonus Faber Aida. I have heard a couple pairs of speakers that are significantly more expensive that I didn't enjoy as much, although the Aida is certainly up there in price. The Aidas seemed to me to have a slight bit of warmth to them, but are still extremely detailed in a way that struck me as very natural and musical. For me, they have all the qualities I'd ever want in a pair of speakers if I lived in a world where I could afford them. I haven't heard anything I've liked better so far.

Ctsooner, I think we all wish we had access to dealers with speakers that interest us, but alas they are no more at least in most areas of the country. Even with Austin and Houston within a 100 mile radius of me, I don't have this.

Even when there were dealers, there were very few speaker manufacturers allowing me to even get to hear the Infinity ServoStatics in Tallahassee Florida.

Beveridge model X-1 with bass towers, and close the Infinity IRS in a very large room, which I preferred over the big Genesis. I also liked the early Magnaplaner speakers, the Tympani, then I was more impressed back in the early days.

Having worked in the A/V industry, I have definitely heard my share. Very interesting is that Klipschorns rank among the very best and absolute worst I have ever heard. Obviously, the two systems were using totally different electronics.

LadyC - fascinating!! You are one of the few who has heard the big Infinity IRS and the Genesis...I have only heard the Genesis. But 2 people (who bought the IRS V) have said they preferred the older IRS V...particularly in the treble. Something about the 12 EMIT tweeters per panel just effortless because they are being driven so far below their limits as part of the design.

Your comments on how they compare in your opinion are most appreciated!!!!!