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

toontrader

Showing 2 responses by sns

Your on right path with the Volti's, horns don't require loads of power which helps to keep total costs down. Horns specialize in bringing performers into the room perspective, pair them with some 300B SET amp and you'll have the beginnings of a great system.

 

Starting with speakers is how I've always built systems, matching amp is absolutely necessary at this point. I also like the open baffle suggestions if you're after the performers in room perspective. They may require more from an amp so that's a consideration.

Over many decades I evolved from box to open baffle to horns, horns matched with SET amp is magic for me. Again, the Volti's would be a great initial choice, they're an evolution from Klipsch Heritage, that's saying a lot.

@atmasphere Good advice, something I discovered on my audiophile journey, inefficient and/or insensitive speakers require watts, and not just watts, quality watts. Any amp capable of delivering quality watts brings a price, the more there are the greater the cost.