Thanks to everyone for your insights-all are much appreciated. The SEs sounded pretty great when I heard them at Axpona- really caught my ear over a number of similarly priced speakers. Looks like a trip to Springfield might be in my future- but from Chicago not Alaska - that’s really dedication!
Legacy Focus SE or PS Audio FR20
My custom-made speakers have served me well for 40 years (including several upgrades) but given technological advancement I’m beginning to evaluate new speakers. Top of my list so far are Legacy Focus SE and PS Audio FR 20 - both of which I was able to hear at Axpona. Both are at or above my price range so I’m looking for insights from users on these or other suggestions at or below the price range. Listening habits are 60% rock/alternative, 20% folk, 20% jazz. Integrated amp is 175 watt Plinius 8200, TT is Sota Nova with older model Origin Live Silver tonearm and Grado Reference 3 cartridge. I do have some high-end hearing loss so I’m trying to factor that in as well. Any help appreciated, thanks!
Showing 4 responses by aheydorn
While i did listen to both speakers at the show, 30-40 minutes in a show environment doesn’t really do any speaker justice- though it does allow for some comparisons. As for testing with my Plinius, of course that would be ideal but virtually impossible given the amp is 35 years old and unlikely to be found in any listening room. I could I suppose buy each set and test them at home but that’s pretty costly and difficult- even with the return policies of both manufacturers. Hence my reaching out to other listeners who have extended experience with either product- thanks again for everyone’s help and insights - much appreciated |
@artemus_5 Unfortunately the nearest Legacy dealer is in Springfield, IL almost 4 hours from my home. And PS Audio only sells direct from Denver. If I think the Legacy is what I’m pretty sure I want I’ll make a trip to Springfield. No trips to Denver though - I’d have to order the FR 20s and ship them back if I decide against them. BTW I don’t have problems with a dealer weighing in provided they identify themselves as such. I figure quality dealers should know their product better than most as well as competitors’ products. They can offer insights and evaluations I might not have thought of or simply didn’t understand. I’ve worked for years with a local dealer and he hasn’t steered me wrong— that said I also bought my first integrated amp - age 18 when I was younger and dumber — from a dealer who insisted I could get FM radio on it! Imagine my surprise at unboxing! As before, thanks everyone for your insights. |
@hickamore Thanks to you and others for SE recommendations. I’ll look into those as well. My room is a largest L-shaped basement room but the system and speakers and listening area are in about half of the long side so hard to define “size”. But certainly worth a look at SEs |