Audio Physic Virgo II vs Avanti III

Taking your subjest a bit side way, I was very impressed by the new Sonics speaker lines---www.sonicsonline.de/---designed by Joachim Gerhard---the original founder of Audio Physics---at the Home Entertainment show.

I believe the Virgo II was still Joachim's design, but the third generation was done after he sold the A.P.. And I heard many thought that the magic of A.P. was gone after his leave. I would think if you like the Virgo II, you should definitely look into the Sonics speakers. Except that, as they are so new, there will not be used one on the Audiogon for quite a while.

Robert

I also listened to the Sonics at the show. It is hard to make judgements under show conditions but I wasn't impressed with what I heard. Could have been the room or the setup.

-Wendell

I think whether you "upgrade" from the Virgo II to the Avanti III depends on whether you have a listening room that will let the Avantis shine. That is, big enough with space around the speakers to let them do their thing. If so, then I agree that the Avanti III will provide a performance level worthy of the money spent, but if not, the Virgo II is pretty darn good....

Philnyc,

You nailed it. Both are wonderful but application is critical. I have a dedicated 17x25 listening room which gives the Avantis room to open up.

-Wendell

My room size is 22'x 30' half the ceiling is 10' and half is 20', into a loft. I also have a room attached to the rear of the listing area that is 12'x14'...so lots of air to fill! I added 2 Rel Storm IIIs to give me the missing octive. I don't think I would sell my Virgos. But it would be great to listen to Avanti IIIs with out dishing out 6+ grand for a used pair!
Does anyone run there Avanti IIIs bi-amped? That would be interesting to hear!
I also sent an Email to Joachim Gerhard. I'm just curious to know if the Avanti III is his design.
Thanks for all your input, Greg