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New Speaker Conundrum - Vandy's, Spendors, Salk, Ascend - Mainstream or ID

I am very lucky to be close to Audio Connection and John has outfitted my entire rig over the years. I am currently running Ares/RP-7 to M-180s - always liked Mark's designs and he/Nick are so approachable over at Rogue.

I used to run 2CE IIs for the longest time and loved them and I thought I would give ID a try and landed a pair of Double Impacts - which I love.

However, I have the upgrade itch and I am in two minds on whether I want to go back to Vandy's or look at Salk/Ascend.

I have narrowed down my list to Spendor D9s, Vandy Treo CTs, Salk Soundstage 8s and potentially the Sierra Towers. I am going over to Johnny's this weekend for another listening session with the Treos and potentially Quatros.

I have always looked (more likely lurked) on these forums over the years for advise - unfortunately never posted :(.
cptkaos

Showing 8 responses by gdnrbob

gdnrbob
4,417 posts
 
Audiodoctor compared to Johnny?
Sorry, No comparison.

Bob
gdnrbob
4,417 posts
 
Ribbon tweeters never worked for me.
Since you like the Vandy's I would stay with them.
The ProAc are very good, and if I were in a pinch, I would get them, but the Treo's with subs or the Quatro's are much better in my opinion.
Bob
gdnrbob
4,417 posts
 
@jdal 
I need to go visit Bache Audio, too. Especially as I get my hair cut nearby.

I went to the NY Audio show. The Bache were good.
(The QLN was very impressive, but I think it was hindered by either the equipment( Vincent, I think) or interconnects. If I ever get a chance to audition them, I would bring some of my cables).
Bob

gdnrbob
4,417 posts
 
@OP, 
Congrats on a great choice.
B
gdnrbob
4,417 posts
 
Is cptkaos an acronym for cupcakes? :-)
At first, I thought it was a Core Power Technology reference, but now I think it is a reference to Butters' superhero on South Park.
B
gdnrbob
4,417 posts
 
@OP, 
I was speaking with another Audiogon member who is contemplating the DIs and I really do not want him to be swayed by my comments.

I completely get what you are saying. But, when it comes down to it, I think letting the other member read what you wrote about the Vandy's  would be helpful to them as well.
Pls don’t get me wrong Tektons were phenomenal but Quatros are (completely personal opinion) in a different league.
I think what you wrote captured the essence of what make the Vandy's so beloved.
I tried Zu speakers for a while, thinking full range drivers might be the way to go, but in the end, Vandy speakers offer a subtle, but noticeable refinement that the Zu's aren't able to reproduce.

Good move in considering new cables. I know Johnny will get you set in the right direction.
Bob 
gdnrbob
4,417 posts
 
@tomic601 .
Wow, that sounds like a great plan.
Bob
gdnrbob
4,417 posts
 
@OP, 
Congrats, and enjoy. Heck, join the club.
I hope to see Pete soon and help him with some marble plinths.
Bob
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