List : Components with high dynamics

High efficiency horn loaded speakers like Klipsch, Avantgarde, and others.

With digital sources, it is possible to maximize source dynamics with various devices in the digital domain.

In the analog domain, a 3 band DBX device like a 3BX can be had for just a few hundred and can help correct for dynamics challenged source material.

I am also increasingly of the opinion that a tube or two in the source or amplification stage can help flush out micro-dynamics in particular better.

Proper matching of amps to speakers is another key factor for good dynamics. High efficiency speakers like the aforementioned horn designs provide an inherent advantage over less efficient speakers as well. all other things aside. Throwing lots of good clean power at less efficient speaker designs can be a practical solution these days as well, in particular with the maturation of good quality and highly efficient Class D amplifiers.

Atmas said:

"One way to ascertain whether or not this is an issue is your system is to turn up the volume until you have to yell at someone sitting right beside you in order to be heard. The question then is: did it surprise you that the system was playing that loud? or was it unpleasant to play it that loud? Latter=distortion (plenty of loudness cues) Former=lack of distortion (very few added loudness cues)"

I think this is a very good test!

"So, my gut says that dynamcis are more of a function of the speaker efficiency than anything else"

You will not get good overall dynamics out of a speaker that is not capable of it no matter what, that's for sure!

"The VAC 140's fit the bill....real immediacy and dynamics."

One would hope so for that kind of money.

I am a big VAC fan and think their pieces are simply gorgeous and also great sounding to my ears.

But seriously, shouldn't any piece of equipment in this price range have great dynamics?

Sorry to rant. I'm actually probably quite jealous that I probably cannot afford or at least justify the cost of the really good VAC stuff at this point in my life.