High efficiency speakers is where it’s at for your situation. $7000 Tannoy Stirling if she’ll let you have ’em 50cm from wall.
High end speakers at low volume
After having got accustomed to my new Vitus RI-101 mk II, I came to the conclusion that I need to improve my system's performance at low volume to enjoy music more.
Current sources: LinnLP12, Holo Spring 3 KTE, Nucleus.
Speakers: Avalon Idea.
Shunyata Delta NR V2 and Hemingway Indigo PC, Tara Labs Forté, TQ 2 Black diamond IC.
I am looking at replacing the Avalon Idea with speakers that could improve the low volume listening experience. I listen to 60 / 70db, I can afford to go up to 85db for very short time (neighbours).
I am also considering to purchase a Loki Max which I understood being quite a neutral EQ unit.
I have selected a few speakers which should match my musical taste based on what I have read:
- YG Carmel 2
- Wilson Sabrina X
- Vandersteen treo ct
- TAD ME1
I don't have the chance to listen to them except the TAD ME1 which I have enjoyed very much but not in my apartment.
Budget max $15k new or used.
I am looking for speakers sounding musical, with wide soundstage, not cold, detailed yet not analytical.
I mostly listen to classic rock, blues and jazz.
The system sits at the end of the long wall in a living room measuring 33x13ft, listening position 8ft from the speakers.
Unfortunately I have to face a tough WAF putting several limits:
- speakers must have a clean design, not black, not too hifi looking... and not too big
- distance from the wall behind the speakers 25cm
I don't mind changing amplifier if it will be necessary to match the next speakers.
I haven't found a preamp that I could consider a good candidate except a very expensive CSport featuring a loudness button which works very well (tested at Ana Mighty Sound).
I would much appreciate some advice from who knows well the above speakers or who had similar needs.
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- 137 posts total
I would recommend looking at stand mounted speakers. Like the Sonus Faber Electra Amator 3. They are gorgeous… there are a number of different models that fit your bill… and all beautiful.
Being stand mounted they will not be as imposing looking and will throw a fantastic sound stage. Speakers like this can really bring down the required need for volume.
Also, the need for volume is not just the speakers. It is everything. I would start by auditioning some SF speakers. I would not get hung up on the exact model… they have a house sound. One that really turned my head the first time I heard it, and after my first set, I became very loyal. I have the Amati Traditional full sized and typically listen to them in the mid seventy db… even though there is nothing to stop me from cranking them to the 90’s. |
Thanks all. It seems there are several people in here not believing in the high efficiency as a solution for better SQ at low volume, rather giving importance to tone control to enhance those frequencies not well audible at low volume. I’ve read a couple of old threads. I’m not un technically prepared to judge myself unless trying. anyway speaking of high efficiency the Zu Soul Supreme speakers look quite gorgeous . https://www.stereophile.com/content/zu-audio-soul-supreme-loudspeaker |
- 137 posts total