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Best monitors under $5,000/system combos

I want to build a new system around a high quality small monitor. I'm thinking of the SF Cremona Audtor, the Dynaudio Special 25, or the De Capio MM i. I also want to keep the electronics small but high quality. I'm open to tubes, but prefer the simplicity of solid state.

I live where little gear is avaiable. We have an AR dealer who sells Pro Ac, and a Classe dealer who sells B&W. There is also a dealer who sells Bryston and PMC.

I'm leaning toward the SF speakers with Carey tube amps, or if I go solid state, the Pass 150.5 and a Pass preamp.

I know this is a very broad question, but if there is someone who can point to me in one direction or another (either to or away from something), I'd be grateful.

I listen mostly to piano music, opera, and chamber music of all sorts. Once in a while some jazz. I also listen to coral music of all sorts. Seldom any rock.

I just sold a system consisting of Bryston electronics, MG 3.6R speakers, a Oracle Delphi table.

Thanks everyone.

MMC
msmcelwee
aboldor
49 posts
 
I have the Auditors powered by an X-150.
Piano and strings recordings sound so good on them, sometimes it's eerie. They *love* chamber music and vocals. On the other hand, they're less ideal for big orchestras and rock (they do hold their own, but they're *mini*monitors, after all). They're not the last word in detail and maybe a tad warm - but this is relative. As always, the final impression is a matter of synergy (system, room) and personal tastes. Good luck.
s7horton
1,077 posts
 
The Caravelles can't be had in a complete system for 5000 dollars. I'd look at some B&W signatures and a classe integrated. Although, I think the Cremona Auditor and cary amplification would be very nice as well. Especially with the chamber music. Let us know how it turns out.
ephemere
1 posts
 
I listen to all types of music, but mainly classical. I auditioned the Reference 3A MM De Capo i (and quite a few other speakers) before buying the Dynaudio Special 25. The MM De Capo i was rather mediocre overall and to my ears is easily bested by many other speakers I heard. It is simply not very transparent or revealing. I tried some Sonus Fabers, and they also failed to stand out. I didn't hear the Cremona Auditor, but I did hear the Amati Homage and was not impressed for $20,000. I would strongly recommend finding a way to audition the Dynaudio Special 25. The Special 25 is perhaps the most revealing and accurate speaker I heard at that price, and yet somehow it is laid back at the same time. Almost nothing I throw at it is difficult to listen to, and I have recordings going back to 1902. I would also suggest adding the Wilson Benesch Arc to your list. The Arc is not well known and is hard to find, but is a really superb speaker. Among standmounts, it would have ranked #2 on my list.
warrenh's avatar
warrenh
2,299 posts
 
I, too, own the Harmonic Precision Caravelles. I did a review last year, that may help you out. Very serious speakers. Quite phenominal top to bottom. It's all my review They have been the talk of the past two audio shows, (Las Vegas and The Rocky Mountain Audio
Fest) from the audiophools who have had the good fortune to listen to them. No sub needed with these babies. peace, warren
hrunge
19 posts
 
Try Wilson Benesch Arc's. I've had them in my system for 8 months and love em.
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