Looking for input on Legacy Audio speakers purchase.


I have a pair of McIntosh MC611 Mono blocks and I'm considering 2 different setups. 
1. Purchase a McIntosh C2700 Preamp and Legacy Focus SE speakers.
2. Purchase a Wavelet with Aeris speakers.
I have a VPI Scout turntable and a Primare NP5 Prisma streamer using JRiver. I may someday add a PrePro for surround with the C2700 or the Wavelet in bypass mode for music.

wgapel

Showing 3 responses by steveindy

I had an old pair of original Focus speakers and enjoyed them for over 25 years driving them with PS Audio 250 Delta monoblocks. My biggest issues with them were trying to tame the bass (the newer Focus have 2 driven woofers compared to three in the old) and contouring the mid-range as they could be a little harsh at times. Overall though, I thought they were great.Finally upgraded and got the Aeris in December. Tried driving them with a PL EVO 400 amp. You would think with the speakers rated about 92db at 1 w that the PL at 70 wpc would drive the upper end just fine. That was not the case. Although the mids sounded great the upper end sounded rolled off with muted detail. At louder listening levels it was quite apparent that the amp wasn't up to the task.
I purchased a set of Pass Labs x260.8 monoblocks since their A class output was 50 watts and the difference was just amazing. These amps may be overkill but I wouldn't change a thing. I would agree with Douglas and others that having "too much power" is a non-issue as opposed to not enough. 
I would also add that the Wavelet is a capable preamp and DAC. The room correction is the real deal and tamed my difficult room immensely.
One has the capability with the Wavelet to contour the sound to your liking. I found this feature to be a very useful tool especially with some older recordings and also that I like a little more bass presence than the un-adjusted room correction provides. I had considered going with the newer Focus but have no regrets buying the Aeris and am more than happy and satisfied with them. Only thing is though....... I wonder how the V's sound... hmmmm....

Happy listening and good luck on your journey!

My room is 16x24 and I wouldn't say it is too "small". Then again, I have a preference for floor standing speakers as I prefer their presence as opposed to bookshelf speakers. An 8" woofer just doesn't do it for me. Comparing apples to oranges as it depends on what you like and want. The Aeris is totally different IMHO.
You couldn't go wrong with either one I would suppose. The Focus is a fine speaker and I am sure the design and driver changes over the years since I had my old pair, have really improved them. You have copious amount of power to drive them like they should be. Maybe I'm a bit naive but I'm not getting this "too big for the room" thing....... If I had a 10x10 room I would say any large floor-stander might be too big in an overkill way. The reality is that the Focus and Aeris aren't much different in size or potential SPL. The difference to me lies in the design. I think the Aeris is a different animal with the 8" midrange and open baffle. All one could do is try to demo both of them and decide, considering all your personal factors, which is for you. I also would reiterate that the Wavelet is the real deal, tamed my room immensely since my options on room treatments were nonexistent due to WAF. Good luck on your jorney and happy listening!