I've owned both the Aerial (LR3/CC3b) and Thiels (MCS1, used as a center channel w/CS7.2). The MCS1 is not as dark sounding as the Aerials, has better resolution, and yet sounds natural with voices and intruments. Musically, I think the MCS1 is the better speaker. For HT the Aerials have the upper hand when it comes to shear output, dynamics, and punch. The MCS1 can soften a little on the loudest dynamic passages. Both Aerial and Thiel sound great with Classe amps, although you will need more power to drive the Aerials to their potential, especially if you're considering the LR5/CC5. The MCS1 is quite sensitive @ ~90 db, where as the Aerials are around 86db. Both have great build quality. I'd choose the CAV-500 for the Aerials, or the Thiels, but you could probably get away with a CAV-180 with the MCS1s. The Theta Dreadnaught would also be a good choice.
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- 7 posts total
- 7 posts total