Revel or Aerial

Harri009

I already have the F208s. I preface my statement with, there are no perfect speakers and everyone has their own thoughts about what sounds good. I have owned many speakers to include: Wilson Audio Sashas, Mirage M1, Audio Physics, Artemis EOS, Devore Fidelity to name a few. What I will say about the F208s is, when set-up properly they image, have air, and sound just as natural is anything that I've owned. What I've found is that set-up is more critical than I thought. Moving the speakers an inch here or there has a big impact on the sound. What I'm looking for is a little more clarity. In particular some of the images deep in the soundstage aren't as detailed as I would like. It may be my preamp, but I will see when I get a new DAC that can be used as a preamp.

I would wait until you get your M51. There's a very good chance that you'll get what you are asking for with that in place. You're right on the preamp. Its very important to get that right or your system just won't come together and sound like it should.

The Aerial's are very different than what you have. Unless you can demo them, I don't think its worth taking a chance. It sounds like you are almost where you want to be. A speaker change may be overkill. Reading your description of your Revel's, it appears that you are very happy with them. I say don't get rid of them until you know you are replacing them with something you definitely like better.

If it were me I would keep the speakers and get some better electronics. A great preamp is indispensable in a great system and I doubt running the M51 as a pre will be as good as a great preamp. If it were me I would take all the money you are willing to spend on the Studio 2s and get a better amp and preamp especially if you say you are already nearly thrilled with the sound of the 208s.

That is one tough choice. As you're talking about buying new, it makes no sense to purchase without listening to both speakers.
I owned a pair of Revel M20s a few years ago, man those are some wonderful little speakers, and now own a pair of Aerial Model 6s. Both brands are fantastic IMO.
You probably couldn't go wrong with either speaker but a listen first seems mandatory.

I was under the impression that the M51 was on the way. If that's the case, by all means, give it a chance. If you haven't bought one yet, I agree with Ejlif's post. The importance of a good preamp can't be overstated.