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TAD Evolution 1 vs Thiel CS3.7

I have done some listening with the Thiel CS3.7 and I love the sound from that speaker. However, I am not able to purchase these speakers for about another year due to room issues. I am most likely going to pair the new speakers with a Bryston 7B-SST2 (or the 28B SST2)
While I impatiently wait to purchase I have become interested in the TAD speaker design’s since they seem similar to the Thiel. Specifically the $29,000 TAD Evolution 1, it is in the ball park of the $15,000 Thiel. There are some demo/used TAD for around $21,000.
I thought I would ask here if anyone has any opinions of the 2 speakers relative to each other. I have not heard the TAD yet and will do so in a few months’ time. I doubt I will be able to demo both speakers at the same location. I am sure the TAD is also a great speaker but do the materials used in it justify the 2X price? What are the differences between the 2 speakers from a technical perspective and also a sound perspective? I plan on sticking with my next speaker for a very long time so warranty and repairs are also a consideration.
yyzsantabarbara
unsound
7,329 posts
 
That price difference could add Thiel subs to the 3.7's.
emailists
923 posts
 
I have not heard the Evolution 1 but am very familiar with TAD CR1's which I have read are similar to the E1.

Taking cost out of the equation I could not imagine you being unhappy with the TAD's. Definitely worth a listen. I can't compare them with the Theil, but to my ear the TAD's are right up there with the best handful of speakers ever designed.
knghifi
1,668 posts
 
In July Stereophile issue, Kalman Rubinson reviewed the TAD Evolution One. Review is very accurate from my experience and the measurements support it.
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
@ Shakeydeal, Hi, your post from 6-17-13 you hit the penny on the head!,I got a good laugh out of the context you put things!, very hilarious and true!,, cheers!
yyzsantabarbara OP
4,808 posts
 
Sorry I did not reply back to this post. I did not see it listed until today.

My statement on the price being fairly close was for the used TAD E1 I see on A'Gon compared to the new Thiel CS 3.7. I have seen a few listing where TAD E1 owners have upgraded to the higher models in the TAD line and put the E1's for sale. The fact that they are not 1/2 price is kind of informative. Of course a Thiel CS 3.7 have also been listed on A'Gon for sale around 6-8k.
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