RaidHo C1.1 vs Focal Diablo Utopia

How about a Raidho td1.2? If you like yours, why not move up to the next gen? They are quite exceptional.

@kfuller3 

As  it happens a few years back when I was doing a big speaker search I auditioned both the Focal Diablo Utopia speakers and the Raidho C 1.2

They were in the same store.

I wrote about my impressions of the Raidho here:  

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/contemplating-devore-speakers-and-others-long-audition-report-of

I give my impressions of a bunch of speakers. I listen to in the first post and Raidho C1.2 is listed there.

In the end, I found the Raidho a bit too coloured for my taste, a bit too laid-back in the lower treble/upper mids, and a little bit pushed in the upper bass.

As for the Focal Diablo stand mounts, that’s a way different sound from Raidho.  If you’re looking for a more forward, exciting and transparent sound you’ll get it with the Diablo.  

In the end, I found the  Focal Diablo a bit too much in the “ultra vivid” category and lacking the warmth needed to balance that, which the larger Focal speakers can bring.

Not to pour cold water on your enthusiasm, but since I’ve heard both, I figured I would chime in.

I only listened to the Focal speakers once, so take that into consideration. 

missing snap attack speaker vs relatively more tonally correct speaker.

choice seems obvious @kfuller3 

Instead of changing speakers, try a different amp other than your Jeff Rowland. Maybe it’s the amp that’s holding back your speakers? Or perhaps, the synergy is not there. Just a thought. 

Upgrading is part of the fun, but take your time. I assume you are using the built in DAC and phono stages in the Rowland, you could experiment with some separates there. I would also encourage you to attend a show, I found it very helpful in identifying gear that seemed to suit me, and eliminating a lot of brands that do not. And it is a good time.