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Spica TC-50 or Vandersteen 1b/1c or ?

Speaker dilema: do I stick with the Spica (which I got at a very good price) or do I go up in size to the Vandersteen. I really like the presentation of the Spica's but even before them I had been using monitors for a long time and I now desire a fuller range sound ($300-500). I'm skeptical about adding a sub and I remember hearing the Vandy 2c years ago on a tube system and being blown away by the sound - the performers and soundspace were palpable. I don't have room for the 2c series but thought the 1b/c might be a good compromise. My system is currnetly a CAL Sigma DAC, NAD amp, Kimber and Audioquest lines. I am working on replacing the NAD with an old Fisher 400 tube reciever (about 25 wpc). Any opinions and advice will be appreciated.
Thanks.
dakajoba
phasecorrect's avatar
phasecorrect
2,013 posts
 
The obvious advantage the Vandies provide is bass...but adding a sub to your SPicas...especially in a small to medium room...might lead to better results...as a former tc-50 owner i would have to concur...the SPicas have a more 3-d image presentation...and a very open midrange...but offer very little high or low end detail...they can sound very dark and cold at times....there forgiving nature works very well with analog though...
unsound
7,329 posts
 
I think the Vandersteen tweeters are probably more durable (and replaceable) than the Spicas. If your have a big enough room, I'd suggest going for a 2 series Vandersteen. I'd also suggest deciding on the speakers before the amp.
ehider
286 posts
 
Spica is NOT the end all speaker today that it was in 1985. Can we say 18 years ago? I owned two pairs at various times in college and loved them for what they were. Here is a list of things that many current monitors will eclipse the Spica TC-50: MUCH better lower bass, MUCH better output before you blow the speakers (Spica = gentle volume levels), Better treble extension, and most of all: not having to throw away the speakers (like you would the Spicas) if you blow one of the drivers.
allenstewart
35 posts
 
I've gotten a sub and changed my electronics- I've not been able to replace the Spicas and I've listened to a lot of other speakers and even demoed some in my home.

I've always liked Vandys when I've heard them, but the Spicas (at least with a sub and good electronics) sound to me more like live music.
dakajoba OP
12 posts
 
Thanks for the responses and advice. I do enjoy the imaging and midrange of the Spica's. But with all the good I've heard and read about the Vandersteen's I'm surprised more people have not supported or recommended them. Anyone?
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