I've been through way too much gear (electrostatics, horns, small box, big box, etc) since 1980. My current room is 8X14, and I have finally assembled a system that plays music. Speakers are Blumenstein Orca Deluxe with a DIY 45 SET tube amp, made by Oliver, an Audiogon member.
This system, with Kimber 4tc, is balanced and musically engaging in a way that has escaped every other system I have tried. I do use a Mac/iTunes/HRT dac with all of my 1,400 CDs on the hard drive. I also built a Lenco turntable with a slate deck.
This system does not slam, but the essence of people making music is amazing. I will pick up the Dungeness for when I want to get more bass impact, but strangely, I'm quite happy with the output of the 3"Foster drivers.
I bought my Blumensteins used on Audiogon a few months ago, so I have no financial investment in the company, but I want to make sure people are aware of a very special speaker. An amp that also sounds wonderful for almost nothing is the EL84 Miniwatt tube amp. You can find these on Ebay for about $240.
I will mention that I had to work at placing the speakers over a matter of a few weeks to get the balanced sound, but you know when it locks in.
Good luck on your quest, and try not to get caught up in the cost equals quality syndrome.
This system, with Kimber 4tc, is balanced and musically engaging in a way that has escaped every other system I have tried. I do use a Mac/iTunes/HRT dac with all of my 1,400 CDs on the hard drive. I also built a Lenco turntable with a slate deck.
This system does not slam, but the essence of people making music is amazing. I will pick up the Dungeness for when I want to get more bass impact, but strangely, I'm quite happy with the output of the 3"Foster drivers.
I bought my Blumensteins used on Audiogon a few months ago, so I have no financial investment in the company, but I want to make sure people are aware of a very special speaker. An amp that also sounds wonderful for almost nothing is the EL84 Miniwatt tube amp. You can find these on Ebay for about $240.
I will mention that I had to work at placing the speakers over a matter of a few weeks to get the balanced sound, but you know when it locks in.
Good luck on your quest, and try not to get caught up in the cost equals quality syndrome.