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Diminishing Returns

I know the point of diminishing returns is different for everyone, probably dependent on their inclme, how much importance they place on the stereo, and to exactly what sound they will be happy with.

In these times (not pandemic but rather trickle down tech) where I feel like you are able to get more for your money, what price point do you feel you need to be at to achieve audio nirvana?

I was researching the absolute least expensive speakers and found that the Elac Debut 2.0 B6.2, the Wharfedale Diamond 225, Triangle Borea BR03 are a few that get excellent reviews and can be had for around $500 or less and it got me thinking...

At $1000 the Whatfedale Evo 4.2 looks very compelling (I loved the Evo 4.4 at RMAF last year)...

At $2000 there seems to be some seriously stiff completion...

Just a fun discussion regarding what you think are outstanding deals sound wise, what the speakers are and how much they cost.  No “well such is $10,000 and it competes with $100,000 speakers”.  I’m talking for the average person who isn’t making $100,000 a year.  I’m talking $5,000 or less, less is better, much better.  I understand that for some, $5,000 speakers are like $500 speakers to others, no need to point out the obvious.

What I do want to know is speakers that you feel punch waaay above their price point and at what price (the lower The better) you feel like diminishing returns comes into play.  Also, lets try not to make this a Tekton DI conversation because it looks like they are the answer to this question at $3500; lets get some others in here that we may not know about.

If this thread sounds dumb to you, sorry, and just move on please!

Another one in question for me would be the SB Acoustics Satori Ara kit...
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Showing 2 responses by ctsooner

ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
For less expensive, very high end speaker, I love the small box Vandersteen's with the carbon tweeter.  I heard it scale with an Ayre AX5/20 (my integrated) as well as rock out with the Belles Aries integrated.  It's just an amazing speaker.

The ET panel is always near the top of that list for me.  I've never heard it sound anything but great.  When matched properly and set up properly, you can achieve amazing results from 60hz on up. 

I felt my Vandy Treo's were an amazing value for true high end sound.  


I think a great speaker will be one that you can match TOP electronics with and you keep hearing a marked difference.  YMMV
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
The brand new Vandersteen 2 Sig mk3 should be on anyone's list under 3500.  He rebuilt the crossover and is using a top circuit board along with the same midrange that's in my Quatro's, lol.  He made a bunch of other changes.  I was told that these are a large upgrade, hence the new designation.  Mate that with an all in one integrated that streams etc... and what a system you have.  

BTW, if you use Vandy subs they are designed to take on the sound of your main amp for the bass where they are crossed over>. It will also free up your main speakers, so that you won't drive them too hard and they too will sound better.  I've never felt the 3's needed subs, but I know many want more bass and it does help the sound of the 3's.
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