When I was a lot younger, I visited every shop I could get to to listen to speakers and equipment, so I had a notion of what I liked.
I think if you are now getting serious with hi fidelity stereo, you should make it a point to go to some audio salons and spend some time getting to know the various makers of equipment. A good dealer will help guide you.
And, not to be patronizing, speakers work as part of a system. The other parts: amps preamps and dacs should be evaluated together with the speakers so you get the sound you are looking for. |
Though I gave you advice to seek out a dealer earlier, I realized later that I didn't take my own advice recently.
On a whim, and with some persuasion from another Agoner, I bought a pair of Zu speakers, based only on word of mouth. As others have said, buying used saves you lots of money that will not be recoup-able should you decide to sell later on. Since, I have my other equipment pretty well set up (as in: I'm not going to change anything soon), I felt taking a chance on these speakers was okay- If I hate them, I'll sell'em and hopefully not loose too much on the deal.
Though you haven't stated it, I am assuming you don't have any other equipment (amps, preamps, etc). In which case, I think you will be best served by making an effort seeking out a dealer and spending some time listening and getting acquainted with the brands out there. To be honest, it was the most fun part of getting a stereo system. |
Great post ejr, I agree.
That is why I think the OP should try to visit a high end salon or two, in order to get a feel for what he likes. Reviews and praises from others only go so far when it comes to speakers. |
I guess I am ’old school’ now.
The internet has opened things up for audiophiles. ’Back in the olden’ days’, you had to visit shops and spend hours listening (which was fun), now you can review the experiences of others and make an educated guess when buying stereo equipment.
What I really wanted to impress upon the OP is that by auditioning equipment, you get a real feel for what sound ’good’ to you and you alone. Sure, you can get a decent sound system by using the reviews of others, but my opinion is that you really need to experience what ’sound’ makes you close your eyes and experience the ’Nirvana’ that comes when a stereo system comes together. (Of course, you’ll always be tweaking it....;) )
Bob |
Where is the OP? If you are reading this, what did you end up doing? |
You could try Zu speakers, if you buy new, they have a trial period. They are also relatively low cost and easily powered. Email them, they are very responsive.
You haven't given us the dimensions/specifics of your room- which would help in giving you recommendations. Can I ask what brand of speakers you were considering?
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I haven't heard the PSB, so I can't comment on their sound.
My listening area is similar to yours (minus the sloping ceiling), so you probably don't need tons of power-unless you like to listen super loud.
(Also, you don't mention your other equipment).
As I mentioned before, I think the Zu might suit you. They aren't 'laid back', but very honest and revealing, maybe just your cuppa'. Also, looking at the prices of the X2T show them to be around $650 (I don't see the Synchrony line). If you can budget around $1K+, then you could probably get a nice older floor standing model Zu used. There are a pair of bookshelves for sale on Agon, but I think you would need a sub for the lower frequencies- so better to stay with the floor standers.
I own Vandersteen 3a sigs and the Zu Union. Both are very capable, though I listen to the Vandy's most. |
I agree, gillatgh, but the OP isn't near any dealers, so he has to rely on reviews. But, I agree, some reviewers are not entirely forthcoming of their relationship with the item being reviewed. But, thanks to the internet, one can get a fairly good idea of the characteristics for a given component. |
Theo1124, you are very fortunate to have found a speaker matching your needs sight unseen. Perhaps having an honest dealer to help you make your decision is also a plus.Larstusor, if you could give us a rough location, maybe we could direct you to a dealer that could help you.
Bob |
Well, you're not in the boonies.
I am pretty sure Atlanta has a few good shops that would make it a day trip.
Come on guys, let's give larstusor some help. |
Well, the last two posts show you two different ways to pursue you goal.
You can either find a dealer in a large city and make time to audition all the speakers you think you will like, or, you can take a 'best guess' at the sound you like, based on reviews. Should the speakers not turn out to be your 'cuppa', just sell them and keep trying.
IMHO, if you are new to hifi/audiophile stereo, I would make an effort to find dealers close to you. Spend time and listen. When you get a sense of what you like, then you can make a more informed decision on speakers you have yet to hear.
I did this in my 20's, and it is something I can honestly say still carries into today. I know what I like and why I like it.
Once you have that information, then you can make educated decisions.
I don't mean to be didactic, but only want you to gain a skill set, before buying speakers based on others reviews. In my opinion, it will save you a lot of time, money, and disappointment. Also, you will get to meet other people who love and enjoy listening to music.
All the Best
Bob |
Larstusor, thanks for the clarification, if you do know what 'sound' you like, then you are half way there. In that case, I think it would be okay to buy speakers that you have read about and think you may like. As others have said, reviews must be take with a grain of salt. But, with 45 years of experience, I think you will be okay.
Maybe you should start another thread.
List the characteristics you are looking for in a speaker, the music you listen to, and the kind of room you listen in. I am sure there will be many suggestions that you can then investigate in detail.
Stringreen, +1 for the Vandys. They have been my Grail speaker for decades. Also, a very +1, for Johnny R at audio connection (a Agon member), he wouldn't steer anyone wrong.
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Oblgny, I would love to hear your impressions of those other speakers-Non Maggies. Perhaps a PM to me? |
Larstusor, that is a good way to start. I think having a speaker that you know and love, makes for an easier way to consider other loudspeakers that you do not have access to audition-when the SAS bites.
All the Best- Bob |
