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Focal, B&W or Martin Logan

I'm looking to upgrade my speakers.  Current system is Lumin U1 Mini server > Lampizator Golden Atlantic TRP DAC> Pass Labs XA160.8 Amp > Martin Logan Classic 9 speakers.  Room is pretty good acoustically (25' x 15'), but I have to place the speakers along the long wall making a 12x12x12 triangle for listening with my sitting position very close to the rear wall.  Speakers are currently 8" from front wall and can't be moved more than 5 or 6 inches further into the room (WAF issues), thus limiting the size (depth) of the new speakers. I listen to most all music, but mostly R&B, Country and classic rock.   

The biggest knock against the current MLs is that they don't have a lot of resolution - especially when it comes to complex music. They're great for acoustic guitar, piano or vocals.  They also lack a bit in bass, but that isn't too big of an issue as my wife would prefer I keep bass to a minimum.

Based on budget and speaker size, I'm seriously looking at the following:  Focal Sopra No. 2 (or No. 3). B&W 802D3, Martin Login 13A (or 15A).  I'm looking at buying used, so won't be able to try before purchasing.  I'm interested in hearing from those of you that have experience with these speakers.  Anyone heard them all and have a preference?

I'm currently leaning to the Focals, but only because I like they way they look. 


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Showing 6 responses by ghdprentice

ghdprentice
6,465 posts
 

OP It is really important with speakers you have an emotional connection. Your last post sounds like a very bad move. Verify theyhave the kind of sound you love.

 

The SAF can be handled. For me, her system became the home theater, if I wanted something, I would buy her a really expensive component for her… and she would be more forgiving for me. Think diamonds ? But if you like the speakers… when she is gone, pull them out into the room… see if that is what they need. If not, fine… then take your time… but don’t jump and buy speakers that you are not in love with.

 

I have had a number of speakers… I have truly loved the sound of my last three sets… all Sonus Faber.

 

ghdprentice
6,465 posts
 
That is way too big a triangle. I would drop it to 6’-7’, especially since they are such small speakers. See how this effects the sound.
All of the speakers you listed will be significant upgrades to what you have. But of different caliber.

I am faniliar with the Martin Logen in general and I would never characterize them as in lacking detail. This must be because of your triangle. Granted they are very inexpensive… so upgrading makes sense. 
Each of the speakers you have listed have very different sound. The B&W are going to provide a real bass kick, with some strong treble. The ML should provide great transparency and detail with a good punch if properly sized and placed, the Focal will be something in between, a bit more coherent. 

I would work with your current system to get it working right… in a much smaller triangle, and optimize it. You have good equipment. Then look at scaling up… ML if you like them with, but want greater scale… or on of the others based on sound. 
ghdprentice
6,465 posts
 
Then you seating position should be 6 - 7 feet. If your system sounds great at that distance… an you like the ML, then bigger ML would help. But even then you are probably going to have to move your chair forward for critical listening.

You can see my system by clicking on my ID. My chair is only 7 or 8 feet from my speakers forming an equilateral triangle. If I would want to move my seating position back I would probably have to double the cost of my speakers… but that would create another problem… over powering the space.
ghdprentice
6,465 posts
 
Ok… I completely understand, I am an old fart. How about “sliders” under your back chair? Also, all the places I sit have these sacro supports behind them. Made for cars, but work great in chairs and couches.


https://relaxtheback.com/products/mccartys-sacro-ease-wedge-seat-cushion

ridiculously expensive, and worth every penny. I have three at all three places I sit in the house. 
ghdprentice
6,465 posts
 
Another thought… if you can’t slide in a listening chair… then Omni directional speakers. MBL or German Physiks? I have never cared for Walsh… so I hate to mention them… but, I just did.
ghdprentice
6,465 posts
 
What about a movable chair for listening?

WAF for Wilson is low. B&W / Mac are really good for rock, they have a real punch and midrange bloom… they are really good together because Mac is not very detailed and the B&W have a strong treble. You couldn’t get further from ML.

Focal in the middle.
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