I've got two "main" systems. One has ATC active 110s and the other Thiel 3.7s. I love both systems. The ATCs are capable of dynamic linearity. They don't stop getting louder when they need to. Super clean midrange, accurate bass. If you want to attend an AC/DC concert at home this is the way to go. They're fantastic for movies, better than the theater. If I'm listening to small scale classical, jazz, classic rock I prefer the Thiels. They are very tactile at low/moderate volumes. Fantastic imaging. I don't think it's possible for a single system to be fantastic at all volumes. How likely is it that a midrange driver that is optimized to be the most accurate and detailed at 90db will also be optimized to handle peaks of 110db? You've gotta pick one I think.
Active ATC vs Spendor / Pass Labs
I had a lovely demo. of a Pass INT 60/ Spendor D9.2.
Had all the musical flow, engagement at all volume levels that I could ever want. A truly impressive demo.
But……. I have always wanted an active ATC SCM50A is what I always dreamed of owning with say a Benchmark LA4 Pre. about the same $$$ where I am for either combo.
I have heard the ATC - different room and gear. But I didn’t do the all listening levels demo. like I did with the Pass / Spendor. Just at a medium / loud level and was so very impressed. I can’t demo the ATC again, my dealer only orders them as someone wants one from ATC direct due to the current economical environment.
So… will I be unimpressed ordering the ATC at all level listening levels or will it not have the Pass / Spendor engagement factor that we quite frankly very addictive ?
I am really at a crossroad as which way to go.