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Thiel 3.6 vs. Dunlavy SC-IV/A

Hi,

I currently own a pair of Thiel 3.6s in my system and like them a lot (their accuracy, imaging, soundstage, neutrality).

However, I have an opportunity to get a pair of Dunlavy SC-IVAs at a great price and wondered if fellow Audiogon members thought I should go for it and make the switch, or stick with the Thiels and save my money (not to mention my back as those Dunlavys are close to 200 lbs each). I haven't had a chance to hear the Dunlavys yet, but have read very positive reviews of them. Wondered if any Dunlavy owners could comment.

From some initial reads, I think the Dunlavys and the Thiels have similar sonic signatures and also require solid matching components. I currently have a Pass X-350 amp in my system so I don't think I have a problem there. Some posters complained of a brightness to the Dunlavys, which is often a complaint about the Thiels. Other posters noted that a solid matching amp will cure any brightness problem.

As I mentioned, I prefer a very accurate, neutral sound. No colorations in the music, and from what I've read the Dunlavys are supposed to do it as well as anyone.

My current system:

Linn Ikemi CD
Adcom GFP-750 preamp
Pass Labs X-350 amp
Thiel 3.6 speakers
justin2468
cdc
1,892 posts
 
I found Dunlavy to sound flat and extremely boxy (shut in). Maybe also a slight lack of low level detail. I wouldn't consider them dynamic, knock your socks off speakers. I thought they were similar to electrostatics in their style. But I'm not saying they can't play loud. Dunlavy's do have nice tonality and an accurate, neutral sound but there's more to a speaker than that.
Note: these are my thoughts based on limited in-store audtions.
genesis168's avatar
genesis168
413 posts
 
Definitely the SC4A! You will not be dissappointed. I have had my pair for years and hav no urge to change them. I had owned Thiel 22 and the 3.6 for a while and I can tell you that the Dunlavys are better in EVERY respect.

Brauser said it the best that you will always be rewarded when better electronics and cables are used.
ejlif's avatar
ejlif
1,377 posts
 
In my experience I have never found Dunlavy speakers to sound bright, I would even so that they sound a bit laid back compared to other speakers.
czbbcl's avatar
czbbcl
1,752 posts
 
You need to go listen for yourself you are asking for opinions and you must realize that is exactly what they are opinions. Thiel and Dunlevy are both outstanding products but ultimately you have to be satisfied with your decision. However, that being said (IMO) your preamp is not up to the level of your amp and that is where you will get the most benefit no matter what speakers you choose. Happy listening.
listener
36 posts
 
I've listened to many of the Thiel models and most of the Dunlavy models. I wound up buying the SC-V's after listening to the SC-IVA's. Not to say that I didn’t like the SC-IVA’s. Then I moved up to the SC-VI's, my present speakers.

Now speaking of the SC-IVA's….. Someone else compared them to an electrostat and I agree, there is nothing quite like the sound of the symmetrical vertical array of the Dunlavy's. I felt that the Thiels that I've listened to were too bright (so I agree with Ejlif who stated the Dunlavy's are a bit laid back). To me that equates to the smoothness of the Dunlavy's. I also felt that the Thiels didn't have the bass definition and authority of the Dunlavy's (IVA, V, and VI).

They ARE big and heavy and require a larger room size. But, if you have the room, the Dunlavy's coupled with the right electronics will fill it with music effortlessly. I also agree with Czbbcl that you may wish to consider upgrading the preamp too.

You owe it to yourself to go listen the Dunlavy's if you can. Happy listening!!
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