Monitor Audio Studio 20SE vs. GR20 or GR60

Although the Studio 60's retailed for much more than the GR60's, and I've never heard the Studio 60's, the reviews I read seemed to indicate that the GR60's actually are an improvement over the Studio 60's. In fact, you can upgrade the Studio 60's with drivers from the GR60, which some might have done since the Studio 60's had a nicer appearance than ghe GR60's. Buy the way, I find my pair if GR60's for $1,850 (perfect condition) right here on Audiogon.

>>the reviews I read seemed to indicate that the GR60's actually are an improvement over the Studio 60's.<<

I read one review like that, but I do not agree. The GR 60's are nice speakers, but not in the same class as the Studio 60's. Monitor Audio did offer a package upgrade so you could put the GR60 drivers into the Studio 60. Interesting idea, but I would be reluctant to do that. The GR 60's have a different sound, do not image as well, do not have the top and bottom extension, the silky highs, do not completely disappear like the Studio 60's and the Studio 60's are more coherent. This is based on my ears and my taste, but I have e-mailed with several other Studio 60 owners who feel the same way I do.

The Studio 60's retailed for $12,000.

GR 60's retail for about $4,000.

IMO, there is no comparison between these speakers.

They are different entities.

Finally, this may or may not tell you something, but iit must be pointed out:

Every day on A'Gon, you will find two or three pairs of used GR 60's for sale.

I have been watching A'Gon for years and years and have never seen a pair
of used Studio 60's for sale.

Tells me two things --- a lot of people buy GR 60's.

No one ever sells a pair of Studio 60's.

This is not to degrade GR 60's. They are competitive with anything In their price niche and anyone shopping in that price range should put them on their list of speakers to audition.

Studio 60's should be compared to much more expenive speakers, which is what I did before I bought them.

Studio 20's are a very musical, well imaging speaker that are considered a standard by many. The GR series is designed to play louder, sell for less and is tailored more for home theater use. Two different design concepts, in my opinion. I love the sound of the Studio series but the GR's are no slouch either. Studio 60's are my favorite speaker of all and the 20's are right below them.

Just curious: Can anyone weigh in on how the newer GS series compares to the GR? Thanks.
-Bob

I owned a pair of Studio 20's in the 90's. They were detailed, excellent mid-range and better bass if they were loaded with 'sand' or 'buck shot'. They imaged very well, for example the height of a vocalist. They had great finish and build quality. I think it was poor decision on my part to sell them. If I see another pair of 20's, 50's or 60's I will buy them.

The current MA line doesn't seem to have the same build/part quality. MA now has a different build strategy focusing on global marketing with cheaper components. The cabinet build quality is extremely important not just for cosmetics but better sound - Sonus Faber, Wilson Benesch are good examples - the extra care & time spent on varnish, lacquer, etc has very specific purpose other than just cosmetics. The current MA line-up just looks and feels mass-market and consequently lot cheaper to manufacture. The sound signature of the GR line is about personal taste and you may rightfully believe a GR60 is superior to it's older counterpart. OTH as someone previously mentioned, those special speakers or any 'used' time-tested product is always difficult to get because it's in high demand. For instance, always difficult to find a used pair of Sonus Faber Extremas, Guarneri or Electa Amator II's - they are all out of production for many years but still considered exceptional performers. When they're listed anywhere, they won't be around for very long - that's a sign of strong value - because they are not just a pair of speakers but real work of art.

My vote goes to Studio 20, 50 and 60 over the GR's.