Concert Experience for $5k?


I have a budget of $5k for new/used stereo speakers.
I have a VPI turntable, PrimaLuna Dialogue preamp and a Cary Audio V12 tube amp. (yeah, the one with 12 EL34’s sticking out of it) I’ve got quality gear and plenty of horsepower.

I am chasing the rock concert experience. When you’re at a live show drums have a sharp attack and crack. Bass/kick drums have a punch you can feel. ....that’s what I want to feel when I play a live album.

Which speakers - new or used - would you recommend to recreate that rock concert feeling?
t-bon3

Showing 1 response by wolf_garcia

I mix concerts professionally (generally smaller jazz, classical, or folkie stuff) and I can't imagine why anybody would want the "concert experience" in their home. The sound is "dual mono" (with light stereo reverb sometimes to make the crowd think they feel better) because if you used a stereo mix you'd have to make the crowd sit in the middle…uncomfortable to be sure, and although the live show can sound excellent (when I mix it always does), it's a different animal. Louder large shows might provide more bass kick than you're used to at home, but get a sub and that difference is covered, generally with more accurate tone. You don't want 115 db at home unless maybe you're drunk and dancing, in which case a small pro PA system is what you need…along with ear plugs.