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Affordable "Thiel type" speakers are?

Hi All,

I am a big fan of the Thiel's highly detailed, transparent, tight sound. In my main system in a smaller room I have 2.4s and in my secondary system in an 18x14x10 room 3.5s. I like the 3.5s a lot but the 2.4s are a clear step up in all respects except for bass depth. I have been looking for 3.6s within driving distance for almost a year with no luck. What I'm wondering is, is there any other candidate I should be considering if I come across it at a good price (i.e. $1400-$1700)? Again, my priorities are detail, transparency and tight bass.

Thanks in Advance
drjay

Showing 3 responses by zd542

zd542
5,339 posts
 
You would probably like something from Audio Physic. You can probably find something used in your price range.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
"DrJ
A pre owned pair of Vandersteen 3A Sigs also has its drivers wired in phase like the Thiels and can perform superbly in that size room. Why other folks are recommending speakers with outta phase mid ranges for you is beyond me.
JohnnyR"

I understand why you would say that given that the Vandersteen's are time and phase correct like the Thiels, but if you read the OP's description of what type of sound he is looking for I'm not sure that the 3's would be the best choice. I just don't think they sound that similar. In all fairness to Vandersteen, though, they are very transparent, and if the OP was willing to buy some other components as well, I think it would be possible to get much closer to the Thiel's sound. I may be wrong, but it looks like the OP just wants to buy speakers.

"Vandersteens don't sound like Thiels, but that's Johnny's response to every speaker thread because he is a Vandersteen dealer."

I really don't think thats the case here. He also has many other brands of speakers besides Vandersteen. He could just as easily recommend something else. Also, its looks like the OP doesn't live anywhere near in Audio Connection and would probably not be in his territory anyway.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
I think you did a pretty good job of explaining what it is you want. I still think you may like a used pair of Audio Physic. Of course, they don't sound exactly like a pair of Thiel's but I do think that someone that likes Thiel will probably like Audio Physic as well. You should easily be able to find something used in your price range. As far as PBS goes, my guess is that you would not be happy with them. To me, at least, they are just very generic sounding. From a sound quality standpoint, they don't do anything wrong. But thats it. I know you mention that Stereophile likes them. Just to be fair, I should tell you that I don't read any type of audio publications. (Stereophile, TAS etc.) I've never found them to be all that helpful.
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