2. speakers
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I should start with speakers. This I know. I’d like to establish a new system.

Returning to a hobby I abandoned two decades ago as life interfered with my personal desires. I’d like to slip back in with a decent package for streaming the likes of Tidal and Qobuz. I’ve relieved myself of all software (vinyl and CDs).

I am currently drifting between horns or BBC sound. Two different worlds, but each intrigue me. Considering Volti Audio with Cary SLI80 Integrated while also Harbeth 40.2 with something like a VTL MB185 Series III. Schizophrenic I know.

Dedicated Room 12’W x 30’L x varied vaulted 11’H.

i’d appreciate any discussion or feedback on my personal dilemma. Opportunities to sample these pairings are not in my immediate grasp, but I can consider travel (SE USA) to educate myself in the process. Budget $20k on used market. TIA

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Showing 2 responses by larryi

larryi
4,183 posts
 

Whatever Volti that fits your budget should be a good starting point.  It’s been a long time since I heard Cary so I don’t know how it sounds, but, you are looking in the right power range.  You could go even lower in power, but don’t stint on quality.  If you can stretch to get the Synthesis Audio A40 amp, you will have a terrific s tube integrated amp that has a first-rate built in DAC.  It runs KT66 tubes that, to me, generally sound better than KT88, 6550, KT120, and EL34 tubes.  

I like the 40.2 Harbeth speaker for its rich sound and large scale presentation.  It is not as dynamic sounding as I like, particularly at lower volume levels.  Volti speakers sound more alive.

Good luck on your search.

larryi
4,183 posts
 

If you are considering speakers other than a Volti or Harbeth 40.2, you should here a range of types—conventional box speakers, panel speakers like Magnepans, open baffle speakers like PureAudioProject. speakers meant for placement in the corners of the room, like Audio Note speakers, and other speaker types that you can see at shows.  The brands I mentioned above consistently deliver good sound, in my opinion.

Also, don’t stretch to get a speaker out of your price range if it means going cheap on the amp.  The right amp is very important to getting the right sound.

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