Dynaudio 1.3SE question


I'm looking for a pair of speakers, and was considering the Dynaudio 1.8Mk2 (great speaker), but have heard that the 1.3SE is much better (despite being a monitor). If I go with the 1.3SE, I will go used, so I don't want to bother my local dealer to listen to them. So, I have two questions:

1. Is the 1.3SE really that much better than the 1.8Mk2?

2. How does the 1.3SE compare with the Merlin TSM-M? I've never heard a Merlin, but have heard many good things, and am curious.

My music preferences include jazz, folk, rock, heavy metal, electronic... you name it. I actually live in an apartment, so the speakers have to fit into my living room. I'd eventually like to add a sub to the system, for the extra low end. I don't have electronics yet, because I'm waiting to decide on a pair of speakers. When I decide, I will try to build around the speakers. By the way, I also like "fast" speakers (at least I think that's the term)... in other words, I like a speaker that can articulate fast transients in the music, particularly quick percussion beats. I also like nice separation and "air" (it is difficult to describe sounds, isn't it?) and detail. I'd appreciate any input... by the way, this is a great resource for audio enthusiasts!

Dennis
eeerie1

Showing 4 responses by eeerie1

Lafish, if I'm going with a monitor, I'm not sure how important deep bass is... as long as it's tight and quick.

Dmichael, which REL sub did you try? I've always heard that they were fast enough to keep up with most speakers... I've even heard they integrate well with electrostats and planars. Most of the music I listen to is similar to what you listen to, so in that sense I might be better off with the 1.8 (or another floorstander). However, I live in an apartment, and have very limited placement options (although the actual living room is pretty large). Aren't most monitors easier to place than floorstanders?

Keith, I was actually leaning toward the Plinius integrated. Is the BAT (which model?) in the same price range (preferably used)? In your opinion, which one would fit my styles of music better? For that matter, what's your opinion on the 1.3SE (since you owned one)?

Thanks to everyone for the advice.
Dennis
Kthomas, I agree with you. The Dynaudio is a very versatile speaker! That's one of the things that draws me to them... plus the fact that they sound very open and detailed. The bass is also pretty tight and fast on Dyns (when fed enough power!). I'm just curious about all the other speakers I've never heard!

Dennis
Dmichael, do you have the 1.8's in a large area? How do you have them placed?

Dennis
Thanks for all the responses. I ended up going with Green Mountain Audio Continuum 1.5's.

Dennis