Cain Abby vs Reference 3a De Capo i

I think the single-driver + supertweeter is the key to ultimate greatness. Properly executed, single drivers have very little holding them back, plus they allow superior but lower powered amps. Throw in a pair of subs and you lack for nothing, plus all the special things that multi-driver/crossover arrays will not touch.

If you're curious about the Fostex line, another way to check out the hi-eff sound is build some. A pair of 167's or 206's will put you out about $170, build some boxes, give them a nice massage, and they really work a treat. I built some and they've taken me on one wild ride!

Gmood1, "get reamed by paying for nothing more than a cabinet" actually describes my reaction to the Abbys pretty well. Lots of show, not much go IMO, and I have a pair with Terry's wire upgrade sitting in a storage room. They're just not my cup of tea, it's not a federal crime.

My definition of "real high end" is one where the gear disappears and leaves the music floating in the room. The Abbys don't do that for me, but the de Capo i's in the right setup do.

The disagreement between Gliderguider and Gmood1 is almost entirely a matter of taste. If you're looking for utmost extension at either end, the Abbys ain't gonna get it. If you like to rock and play it loud, it's no contest.

For transient response and "live" mids though, nothing but Nothing can beat a single driver. They have their limitations and quirks, and for me it's a no-brainer. Give me the Abby any day.

Gliderguider LOL !! I had to crack my side at your last post! It is hillarious ! I have no problem with the speakers not working for you. As I told you before ..why waste the space.Send them my way. I'm sure Miklorsmith will take them off your hands as well.

It was the "real high end" comment that got me going. It must be a lot of unreal high end on Agon..cuz there sure is a lot of it for sale.

Looks like your pro canadian too. Nothing wrong with that...I guess! :-)

I've seen pics of Terry's version of the Abby with the tweeter built into the surround. I think a nearfield version with that addition and a pair of Bailey subs would probably sound pretty special. I know the Abby/Bailey combo got a fine review at 6moons.

As Miklorsmith says, it's all about personal sonic preferences. It would be a boring world if we all liked the same stuff.

About the Canadian thing, it's really more a matter of those two speaker companies (Coincident and Fab) making products that appeal to my musical and philosophical sensibilities. My amps have come from China, France, England and the US. In 2005 there are no borders when it comes to taste.