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Help me choose a speaker match for my Line Magnetic 805ia tube amp under $10K

Since all of you were such a huge help in getting me to arrive at my decision to get the Line Magnetic 805ia tube integrated, I thought I would start another thread to discuss speakers to consider. I do love my Ascend Acoustics but after hearing the improvement that the Line Magnetic gave my system, I am wondering now if there is a reasonably priced but a better speaker that is a better match for my system. The only criteria is that the price be equal to or less than $10k. I am looking for a speaker that is not harsh in the higher frequencies but still has enough sparkle and snap that doesn't give up anything in terms of detail. The ability to deliver some low end, dynamic punch is something that I would be looking for as well as this is the one area the Ascend's lack in currently. 

My current setup is...

Speakers: Ascend Acoustics Sierra Tower with RAAL Tweeters and Ascend Acoustics Center Speaker with RAAL Tweeter
Amp: Line Magnetic 805ia at 48W x 2
DAC: PS Audio Directstream Junior
Primary Music: Jazz and Female Vocals 

Speakers that I have considered so far include (power requirements notwithstanding):
  • Magico A3
  • Dynaudio Contour 60
  • Focal Sopra 2
  • Sonus Faber Olympica 3
Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!
freesole

Showing 5 responses by twoleftears

twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,313 posts
 
Those are all very mainstream choices.  Going a little off the beaten track will net you much better results.

First of all, take a good look at Daedalus.  All their speakers are rated with high sensitivities, yet can handle power.  There are several good models in your price range.

Another great recommendation is Salk.  Likewise, a number of excellent models in your price range.  You can talk with the designer directly, and ensure that your amp is a great match.  You can't say that of the likes of B&W, Focal or Sonus Faber.


twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,313 posts
 
Besides my previous recommendations, used Harbeth 40.2, Spendor SP100; also a brand new speaker just out the Odyssey Liquid, at $5900.  See show report to be posted this evening...
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,313 posts
 
At your price point new you're looking at Daedalus Athena or Muse.  The owner Lou won't steer you wrong.  There's also a used Argos mk2 for sale right now that is very tempting.
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,313 posts
 
How far away are you from Ferndale, WA?  It would be fantastic to audition all Daedalus speakers on site.
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,313 posts
 
@freesole I've never heard the Argos, but Lou recommends them for a notably wide sweet spot and a slightly more forgiving presentation.  I think you might like the new Apollo or possibly the Ulysses.  Note that Daedalus has a very significant sale going this month that will end I think on the 30th.  Significant savings if one of the models rocks your world.
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