Bookshelf speakers that pair well with Decware ZMA


Pulled the trigger and ordered a Decware Zen Mystery Amp that’s been on my wish list for some time for my office system. Thanks to their long wait list, I now have ~18mo or so to figure out the speaker upgrade (from LS50s) to pair with it. I realize this is doing things backwards to most people, but I love the aesthetics and have been wanting to try out tubes so just went for it. I figure the amp has great resale value if it turns out not to be for me and I’ve got some time. On that system I listen mostly to jazz, signer-songwriter, and Americana/folk as well as some lighter rock music at low to mid volume levels. Sources would be streaming Tidal and a vinyl rig that’ll probably be next in line to upgrade. Listening distance of about 7-8ft. With room dimensions of 14 x 12 with 9ft ceilings. Prefer a somewhat warm and musically pleasing sound signature over extreme tonal accuracy and love speakers that have great imaging, soundstage, and can perform that disappearing act to make you feel like you’re there over those that focus on pulling out every microscopic detail. Don’t mind missing lower bass so bookshelf/stand mount only.

 

Before pulling the trigger on the ZMA, I was considering Dynaudio Heritage Specials I’ve found used but worry they might not play as nicely with tubes and the somewhat limited positioning options I have in this room. Budget is flexible but would want to stay under $5500. DeVore 3XL have always been on my short list and saw they now also offer the Micr/O, both of which should be more tube friendly but are tough to demo in my area. Aerial Acoustics 5T are supposed to be great and more flexible with placement, and I figure the new Source-Point 10s are worth a listen and about as big as I can fit without changing things a lot with the rest of the room. Any of these options jump out as great or bad pairings? What else would you put on your short list if there were no brick-&-mortar shops near you and home demos require purchasing +/- returning. I’d love to try Harbeth at some point but have heard they are better with high powered solid-state amps so I guess that’ll be another system and another time. Thanks in advance for your thoughts and input.

ethos123

Showing 1 response by sfar

I'll second the recommendation of the Reference 3A de-Capo. I drive mine with a 20 watt Raven Audio Blackhawk LE and find the combination to suit me better than any combination of the many I've owned.