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Ascend Sierra 1 vs Triangle Borea BR08

I decided to upgrade my current bookshelf speakers (Infinity R162s). I've settled on 2 options based on some reviews: 

  • Ascend Sierra 1 (on sale for 680/ pair) 
  • Triangle Borea BR08 (on sale for 800/ pair) 
I'm newer to audio stuff, but I felt it was a good time to upgrade. My current system and listening area: 

  • Denon AVR-X2600H (95WPC) 
  • HSU VTF2 MK5 
  • Fluance RT-85 (Nagaoka MP150) 
  • Art DJ Pre II (12V power supply upgrade) 
  • 24'x15' living/dining area with 9' ceilings
  • Not treated and can't be because WAF
  • Opening to kitchen and staircase 
  • Listening Position about 7-8 feet from speakers currently
Originally I thought the Triangle might fill the space better and I like that is 3-way. That said I've heard some middling reviews about response.

Sierra 1s are at a great price, and I would assume better quality. What I'm concerned about is achieving adequate volume in the space.

I value accuracy above volume, but I don't want it to sound anemic in space. I will probably end up just trying both and judging for myself, but curious as to your opinions. 

Thanks! This is my first post here. 
coolhandduke

Showing 9 responses by coolhandduke

coolhandduke OP
46 posts
 
@simao 

I am surprised to hear the Triangles are more detailed. My uneducated assumptions would think Ascend would be more focused on detail. 

And yes, floor standing is attractive, but I'm game either way. I did read some numbers about the impedance dropping into the 3s in the BR08S though.
coolhandduke OP
46 posts
 
@b_limo 

I'll most likely purchase the Sierra 1 as well. Figure if I like them more than the Triangle, I can sell the BR08S for around what I paid and make someone happy with the deal. Saves me shipping. 
coolhandduke OP
46 posts
 
@toro3 

Ascend is local to me and that's attractive. I have heard great things about, Dave, the owner as well. 

Ascend also offers an upgrade kit that takes the 1s to the 2-EX and shaves a few hundred off the price. So that's also attractive. 
coolhandduke OP
46 posts
 
@b_limo 

Truth be told, I ordered the Triangles a couple days ago because I figured the deal would be dead. Found them on Adorama thru slickdeals. Looks like back to 1200-1400/pair. 
coolhandduke OP
46 posts
 
@fuzztone

That's probably what I'll do. 
coolhandduke OP
46 posts
 
@b_limo 

We shall see. 3-way, bigger cabinet, Chinese budget model vs. 2-way, smaller, bamboo, US made, and upgradeable to their high-end model.
coolhandduke OP
46 posts
 
@b_limo

The AVR is new. It struck a good balance for me right now. Decent power, lots of lossless streaming capability, good DAC, video inputs, room correction (I’ve EQd below 300hz and it’s pretty incredible). Of course separate audiophile components sounds appealing, but this works for my space right now. No integrated amplifier had all the things I wanted. Maybe one day I can afford a high end Anthem or something with Dirac.

I’ll report back when I’ve had a chance with both of them.
coolhandduke OP
46 posts
 
Got both pairs of speakers yesterday and hooked them up this morning. I'm no veteran, but my impressions so far: 

  • Sierra 1 - these are on a different level to what I've heard before. There is detail, clarity and an openness that is incredibly exciting. Instruments are very well defined and separated. I don't find these warm or bright, but just very easy to listen to. I ended up with a full toe-in with these. They are about 7 feet apart and 7 feet from me. 
  • Borea BR08 - these guys are bigger than I expected. Solid build, even if basic. They are more sensitive than the Sierras and create more of a "wall of sound" in my room. However, the sound quality seems more similar to my Infinity R162s, just bigger and more defined. 
I'll take more time with these, but I'm leaning towards the Sierra. The Triangles make for a more rocking speaker, but the Sierra seems to just be on a different level.
coolhandduke OP
46 posts
 
@toro3
I did some more testing last night and I’ve settled on the Sierras. Don’t get me wrong, the Triangles have a lot going on, but they just don’t have the clarity and detail the Sierras do. This was a case of quality vs quantity. Ultimately, I made the choice based on which I’d miss most. 

Edit: the Sierras can also be upgraded to their 2-EX model (RAAL ribbon tweeter, new crossover, and new woofer) with a kit they provide. Both use the same bamboo cabinet. That won't be for awhile, but the ability to jump up to another level is a nice plus to the Ascends.
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