Pondering a change after 30 odd years...


After 30 years I think it's time to move on. I have a set of Acoustat 1+1s that I've owned since new, paired with an RHLabs passive sub. It's been a great combination and still sounds pretty nice but it's all long in the tooth. Sooner or later a panel will quit then I'm dead in the water. I love the soundstage with it's "fullsized" presentation even if it's a PITA to get them dialed in just so. Maybe I'm just getting restless! I've heard many "box" speakers but damn no matter the price point it seems I can hear the "box". Granted I haven't listened to some of the big $$ stuff like Wilson but that's way outside my budget anyways. LOL! I'm wondering how some of the smaller "monitors" on stands sound? One thing I'm thinking I'd miss is the vertical part of my large soundstage. I've read about the Golden Ear line which get decent reviews. Or should I just stick with a panel of some sort, like Maggies? I've about 110 watts/side of tube power to work with. As for budget, I'm thinking somewhere in the $5-7.5K range. I'm listening to a lot of jazz these days with a dash of classical. But I'd hate to think my old rock vinyl wouldn't be welcome anymore. I know this is all pretty vague but hoping to get a nice discussion with things to think about versus "buy this" sorts of recommendations. AdThanksVance!
128x128musicfan2349

Showing 1 response by tom8999

I am biased - but hear is my recommendation ;

with a budget in the 7k range - the Best Buy in the Maggie line is the 1.7is - a 100 watts of power per channel should make them sing. You can use the Maggie bass panel (DWM)if you want more bass - I did this on one system, but I was not happy until I got the bass panel it’s own amp. Sounds great biamped - amazing soundstage and good bass slam for my Rock albums. I mostly play Blues and Jazz. This combo costs less than 5k. Or you can add bass to the 1.7is with The Swarm - a 4 sub system with it’s own amp. I just ordered The Swarm for my second stereo system (Peter Gunned Maggie 1. 6qrs) - Per TAS review - The Swarm will fix any room’s bass issues. I will let you know how it turns out once I get The Swarm set up. Hope to have them in 4 to 6 weeks - The Swarm would run in the range of 3k.

Happy Listening!