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.

rfc

I have the following:

ATC SCM150 passive

ATC SCM20 passive

ATC SCM50 active

all of them can be played at any level and they play equally well at quiet or loud or anything in between.

 

ATC is a great speaker co with among the best midrange I've ever experienced at any price --even in its current entry level series.  Too bad they are not more well known in the U.S.

Thanks for all the suggestions.

I have some thinking to do.

I’m leaning towards the ATCSCM50A now, the price is better due to a dealer looking after me price wise due to ordering sight unseen / not being able to demo.

I’m leaning towards the ATCSCM50A now, the price is better due to a dealer looking after me price wise due to ordering sight unseen / not being able to demo.

great, we will look for your pair in the for sale used ads in a few months... 🤣😂

just kidding... i do hope you enjoy them