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Help with speaker selection

Hi all,

I’ve considering upgrading from my beloved Aerial 10T’s which will remain in a second system. What I’m looking to improve from the 10T’s is the detail, while maintaining the extreme listenability the Aerials bring (zero harshness). Also I want to improve in the lower mid bass/bass detail. The 10T’s will play low but the detail could be better.

So far I’ve been impressed with the Sonus Faber Olympica Nova V’s. They really impressed me with all of the attributes I’m looking to improve over my Aerials. They had a wonderfully cohesive presentation with detail and no harshness. The bass was outstanding and articulate.

I’ve only begun shopping so I’m looking for other recommendations to consider. I heard the Aerial 7T’s and was not nearly as impressed as I was with the SF’s.

Others on the list that I haven't heard yet include:

Revel Salon2/Studio2

Aerial 20T V2 (impossible to find!)

 

Amps will be JC1’s, with a solid state front end (Levinson).

Thanks in advance!!

Ag insider logo xs@2xhk_fan

Showing 4 responses by hk_fan

Ag insider logo xs@2x
hk_fan OP
416 posts
 

I really need to find some Salon 2's to listen to.  I have read so many good things about them that it's hard to scratch them off the list without actual time with a pair.

I will likely be buying used - but not necessarily depending on dealer, etc.

I appreciate everyone's input more than you can imagine.  Thank you all so much!!

Ag insider logo xs@2x
hk_fan OP
416 posts
 

If any of you are around NC and willing to let me audition some of your speakers mentioned please let me know.  My local dealer doesn't carry most of the speakers you all have mentioned.  I'm happy to bring a bottle of wine to compensate you!  :)

Ag insider logo xs@2x
hk_fan OP
416 posts
 

Wow, thank you for the outstanding reply!  It seems my three options cover the range from pinpoint/analytic to warm and romantic.  That's helpful since I've never heard the Revels and it's been a long time since I heard the Aerials.

The space is quite large 20L x 22W x 15H, the speakers are on the 22W wall.  I am a bit concerned about filling the room with sound since I heard the SF's in a small demo room with full treatments.  My living room will not have that as while my wife is extremely understanding and enjoys the hobby too - isn't THAT understanding.  :)

 

Yes I plan to keep my electronics.  Lumin Streamer, Ayre QB-9 Twenty DAC, Esoteric DV-50 disc player, Levinson 326s pre, JC1 amps, AudioQuest cables (Diamond USB and Meteor balanced and speaker), I forgot to mention I also have a JL Fathom F112 V2 sub.

Ag insider logo xs@2x
hk_fan OP
416 posts
 

Thanks for all the great responses!  Rockport is another speaker I've always been impressed with - anyone know of any for sale?

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