Avantgarde..... Still a contender???


I am thinking seriously about a drastic change in my system.... I am becoming very intrigued with the idea of high efficiency horn speakers and low-powered tube amps. If you look at "My system" you can see that this is a big change from my current set-up. The trouble is I haven't heard many horn designs (but so far really like what I have heard) and wonder if the Avantgardes are still thought of to be state of the art. Can I do better (for less money)? Any input from you SET guy's is very much appreciated. There just aren't very many (any) dealers doing horns in my area so I need some help on this one.

Other issues are:
1. Is my room large enough (21x15x11)?
2. What would be a good amp to start with (without
breaking the bank)?
3. Is there a good low-powered amp that is balanced? Or,
is single ended REALLY the way to go? (the rest of my system is balanced, and I'd love to keep it this way)

OK enough for now.

Thanks

Chris
cmo

Showing 2 responses by cmo

Thanks for all of the input on my question (s). I do, in fact, have an audition set for this comming week with a set of Duo's. The dealer is one who I have great confidence in setting these speakers up "right"......... I'll report back. My idea of finding an effecient speaker relates more to my amplifier than to my current speakers. I love the ML Prodigy's and, like the Duo's, think that once they are set-up properly and mated to the right electronics are world class. Right now I live in Texas where it gets extreemly hot for about 9 months out of the year. I will not consider solid state amplification, and a tube amp with enough power to drive the Logans equates to a small rotisserie grill. The dealer I'm auditioning the Duo's at is also offering a good deal on a pair of demos (which is the only way I'm even considering them).

Some of the other speakers people have mentioned look very interesting, especially the Zu's. OTOH, I really don't care for most of the box speakers I have heard. I guess that's why I have Logans along with a pair of Maggies in my second system.

Keep the ideas coming please! BTW, are there any horn users out there who live around Austin, TX that would let me check their system out.......... I'll bring the drinks.

Chris
I have had the Duos since my original post aver three years ago..... Still love every minute with them. I don't see myself moving from the high-eff./SET thing anytime soon..... You can check the "My system" link to view the updates.

I think in an ideal world (where I had a lot more disposable income) I'd probably have second system with planars or cones....

Chris