Well my studio monitors (MA pro3's) are getting really long in the tooth and I haven't been into audio for some time now and was wondering what everyone's favorite speakers were. I need to get something soon. To give you an idea of what I like, and remember this is going back a few... the best sounding speakers I've ever had the pleasure to audtion are probably the Ohm model F. They were goofy looking, but that Walsh driver sounded sweet hooked up to that Crown amp!
Now I'm not going to blow the budget but I'll spend up to $800 on a stereo pair or satellite/sub system.
Speaker Recommendations
Sun, 05/01/2005 - 01:15
#1
Speaker Recommendations
A stereo setup and surround setup are two completely different speaker worlds. Do you have any preference as to what kind of system you wish to put together?
Since I listen more critically to music I'd like to spend the initial dollars on a stereo setup. When I say satellite/sub setup, that doesn't necessarily mean surround. I'd be interested in the sub for the better bottom end it offers. I do have a SACD capable player (but no SACD's), but I also have a vinyl collection that I am not going to totally replace. So I guess I'd consider stereo or surround depending on the up front pair and sub the surround system offers. My current receivers are only stereo, but in parallel with the speaker purchase I'm also looking at new receivers. I'm starting with the speakers since IMHO they are the most critical piece of the system.
Thanks for your input.
I'd say look for a good pair of tower stereo speakers to start with. They'll be really nice for music, and you won't have to mess with a powered sub on a stereo receiver. Most speaker brands I know of also make matching center, surround, and sub speakers for just about any set of towers they have... that's just the US market.
As a start, I'd check out the B&W DM602.5S3 or the Klipsch Reference RF-25. Both are fantastic speakers at a good price. The B&W is a bit more refined, the Klipsch is a great overall performer with good bass.
Listen to those and post back with your thoughts.
I haven't been able to locate the B&W's in my area. I did however find the Klipsch RF-25. Not a bad speaker, but the top end wasn't as open and detailed as I would like. It might be due to the limited material on hand when I heard them. I am going to go back and listen with my own program material and I'll let you know.
Good idea. It's always best to listen with your own stuff. Make sure they have the receiver setup right too. I've often found that poorly setup or matched receivers can affect the top end considerably. So weigh that in with your analysis. I hope you find a B&W dealer in your area. It's starting to sound like they might be the best fit for you...very musical. They may not offer quite as much at the bottom (very close though), but you could always add a small sub down the road if you want a little extra kick in bass.
Did you ever decide on a pair of speakers. If so, what did you get?