I agree w Shakey but for slightly different reasons. The Wilsons, or any other highly resolving speaker is gonna reveal the limitations of your upstream components. You didn't mention your source, but the Arcam, although v. good for an HTR, is not gonna deliver the goods. The Wilsons will let you hear their limitations quite clearly. I'd recommend putting the $20K into a high quality integrated w HT bypass, a top notch source, and a good pair of fronts. There are lots of possibilities. I'm a tube guy and could heartily recommend a VAC integrated and a pair of Merlin VSMs. For $20k you buy them new. If you went used, you get Merlin TSMs for the rears and a new (v. hard to find used) Merlin center. For Solid state, maybe a Pass integrated (not sure which speakers would mate best, but there are tons of options in the price bracket you are talking about).
Avalon Acoustics vs Wilson Audio
I would like to know how Avalon's sound compared to Wilson's. I heard that they have a similar sound, but just want to make sure from other peoples experience. I have heard, Sophia 3's, Sasha w/p, and the x2. I liked all 3 models. I haven't heard any Avalon's yet. I will definitely be looking to audition. Just thought I would ask for now.
My budget ($15k-$30k)is pretty broad for the sake of keeping an open mind. Realistically I'm thinking $20k'ish. That price is just for the pair of speakers mind you.
My current setup consists of Paradigm studio 60's v.5 (mains), cc-590 v.5 (center), studio 10's v.5 (rear's), Arcam avr-600. Primarily its an HT system, but I use it for music alot as well. It's a pretty good sounding system, but I've grown out of it for music. Its a superb setup for gaming and movies though. This is pretty much why I'm thinking of a dedicated 2ch setup.
Second option, is to upgrade my current system with better speakers. Use an outboard dac dedicated for music in conjunction with the avr-600. It would still be a 5ch system in the end though.
Any thoughts?
My budget ($15k-$30k)is pretty broad for the sake of keeping an open mind. Realistically I'm thinking $20k'ish. That price is just for the pair of speakers mind you.
My current setup consists of Paradigm studio 60's v.5 (mains), cc-590 v.5 (center), studio 10's v.5 (rear's), Arcam avr-600. Primarily its an HT system, but I use it for music alot as well. It's a pretty good sounding system, but I've grown out of it for music. Its a superb setup for gaming and movies though. This is pretty much why I'm thinking of a dedicated 2ch setup.
Second option, is to upgrade my current system with better speakers. Use an outboard dac dedicated for music in conjunction with the avr-600. It would still be a 5ch system in the end though.
Any thoughts?