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Speakers for a first-time separates system?

In a parallel thread, many of you have offered helpful suggestions as to which new/used amp+pre-amp combinations would be great for someone starting out in separates.

Meanwhile, I have been auditioning speakers and have narrowed the choice to three models, with one line a wildcard. These are all roughly the same price, new or used:

Paradigm S2
Dynaudio Contour MK 1.3
Spendor 3/1

The wildcard is Tyler Acoustics: there are several models in my price range, but I cannot listen to any of them since the showroom is in KY.

My hard price limit is $1800.

Any insight regarding these for manufacturer's products (these four only) would be great!

Thanks,
ivyinvestor
upstateaudio's avatar
upstateaudio
249 posts
 
Try Totem Rainmakers if they are available in your area.
macdadtexas
1,794 posts
 
I have not listened to the Dynaudios, but the Tylers and especially the Paradigms are extremely fine speakers. I love the S2, and think that it is an incredible bargin. Why would you eliminate the Paradigms? I don't know anyone who has heard them, who did not love them.

Good luck.
s23chang
620 posts
 
Don't forget to match the speakers with right amp.
This is very critical.
tripper
223 posts
 
Those EVOs are a good starting point at $250. Dynaudios are generally 4-ohm spkrs and as such require an amp with some cojones to coax the best sound from them. A little more fussy in placement and wire choices. I was never ga-ga over Paradigms; Energy/Mirage and PSB offering much better values, imo. Spendors will probably give the greatest satisfaction over time, and you may avoid chasing the sonic dragon with upgrade-itis. I finally learned that the ultimate luxury is wanting what I have, not what I want. That was a big $$ journey, but the lesson is priceless. The Spendor S6 avoids stand issues and they will look good and play great in nearly any room. Best of luck in your quest.
newbee
4,811 posts
 
If you can find a pair of used Tyler Linbrook Monitors in your budget range, go for it. These sound much 'larger' than your typical small two way speaker but image just as well. These ARE high end speakers - the quality of sound is such that you will be able to go thru a lot of electronic's changes without needing to up-grade your speakers unless you are looking for more bass. Even though they are not 'bright' in any sense, they are highly revealing of sources and you will hear the benefit of quality electronics. With their efficiency they are easy to drive with medium powered amps.
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