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Focal Utopia monitors: Diablo vs. Micro Be

I have a pair of Micro Utopia Be speakers (complemented with a REL Stentor 3 subwoofer) which I drive with an Accuphase combo, i.e. the E-550 amp together with the DP-500 cd player. I like the speakers very much and I was not really thinking of getting rid of them, nor am I feeling the need for a change/upgrade. However, an audiophile friend of mine informed me today than one of his friends is selling a pair of Focal Diablo Utopia 3 speakers for about half the retail price. Since the speakers are less than a year old this seems to be a good bargain.

I am interested to here opinions from anybody who has compare these two speakers. Are the differences so significant to justify a 5K (euros) investment?

Thanks!
nvp

Showing 4 responses by phaelon

phaelon
1,053 posts
 
I have heard that the Diablo is an easier load for an amplifier than the Be - gentler impedance curve. Can any of you guys who heard the Diablos comment on this? I have a relatively robust 25W/Ch Tube Integrated and would like to know if it's even realistic to consider the Diablo.
phaelon
1,053 posts
 
Elviukai, will you tell me where you found the Diablo's phase shift and impedance curve. I've been looking without success.
phaelon
1,053 posts
 
Thanks Elviukai, I'm using a robust 25W/Ch. tube integrated with the first generation Mini Utopias. I'm generally happy with the combo but the Mini's have some severe spikes below 100 Hertz. Based on your measurements, do you have an opinion on a change to the Diablos.
phaelon
1,053 posts
 
Thank you Elviukai. That's extremely helpful. I spent a good year auditioning speakers before choosing the Mini's and I still like them. But when pretty much everything I read proclaims that these third generation Utopias easily blow away the Be's, my interest is peaked. That said, I agree with those that consider it critically important to get the synergy between a speaker and amp right.
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