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Preowned Focal 1027Be or New Focal Aria 936?

I'm considering purchasing a pair of Focal Aria 936 speakers that will be paired with an old McIntosh Mc2205 and C27 preamp. I've demoed the Arias at a dealer and really liked the way they sounded, but as is often the case, another contender has stuck it's head into the ring. Someone recently posted a pair of gently used Focal 1027Be speakers on Craigslist. I now find myself in a bit of a dilemma as to which ones to choose. Should I opt for the originally higher priced 1027's, or go with the newer technology of the 936's? The used 1027Be's are about the same, if not slightly less than the new Aria 936's. I have not yet heard the 1027Be's, but can anyone who has provide any guidance? 
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Showing 1 response by georgehifi

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georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
take the 1027Be without hesitation.
Without a doubt.
But these these need a solid state amp with "current" balls. It said they measure much like the 1037Be
https://www.stereophile.com/images/archivesart/707FOCFIG1.jpg

(fig.1) indicates that it is a demanding load for the partnering amplifier in the lower midrange and bass. Not only is there a minimum value of 3 ohms at 33Hz, but there is a combination of 4.25 ohms and –47.5° capacitive phase angle at 27.3Hz. Fortunately, music with significant energy below 40Hz is relatively rare, but an amplifier that has no trouble driving 4 ohm loads at high levels will still be required. The fact that the impedance remains above 10 ohms for much of the treble means that the 1037 Be will tend to sound shelved-up in the highs with tube amplification.

Cheers George
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