Raidho D1/C1.1 vs Dynaudio C1 vs Magico Q1


Hi,
I am looking to upgrade to a state of the art monitor speaker. Excellent dynamics, transparecy (without dryness),coherent sound and impressive bass extension (for a monitor) are the characteristics I am looking for. The partnering equipment is Resolution audio Cantata (source), Marantz SC-7s2 (pre-amp) & Burmester 956 mk. II (amplifier). I would appreciate if any of the members (who own these or have auditioned and compared these) can give me some valuable feedback/impressions on how these speakers compare to one another (I realize that the Dynaudio is at a much lower price point). I know the technology in the Raidho monitors is very impressive but is the sound that much more special?
Where I live, I do not have access to any dealer who has these brands.
Many thanks!
apdoc2004

Showing 3 responses by apdoc2004

Xti16 and Tboooe,

Thank you for posting your detailed impressions. The dimensions of the dealer's room is pretty close to my room. I am somewhat discouraged by the fact that Raidho's struggled with fast paced music (especially when compared to SF Auditors that I have owned and listened to extensively).
XTi16--How are the lows of the Raidho compared to your C1 Sigs?
Maybe I will have to take Jwm and some other posters' advice and make plans to travel and audition the Raidhos. The other option would be to save for a used pair of the Raidho D2 to show up on audiogon.
Thanks,
A sincere thanks to all the members who have posted their impressions/inputs.

To Xti16
Thanks for your input on the direct comparison. Do you know if the Raidhos are able to perform their magic with somewhat reasonably priced speakers cables (Nordost Heimdall) or are we talking about Valhalla territory to get the performance upgrade?

To Jjy
Your input is very helpful. May I ask which speaker cables and amplifier are you using with your Raidho D1?

To Kiwi_1282001
My room is 17.5 feet (length) X 14 feet (width) X 9 feet (height). I probably would do well with a medium sized floorstander but wonder if a monitor with good bass extension would work well too (it may offer an advantage in terms of less compelling need for extensive room treatments). What is your take on this?

To Essential audio
Your advice makes perfect sense but the Pacific Northwest is an audio wasteland particularly for some of the higher end brands (Magico, Raidho or even high end Dynaudio models). I have had good luck trying products on the advice of the audiogon community; that is the reason for soliciting opinions.

To Toddnkaya
I do love the Lenehan ML-1s--they are great performers and do most things very well. I just have the itch to try the "State of the art" products just once in this hobby. Who knows--I might end up preferring the Lenehan speakers!

Any additional inputs/suggestions are welcome
Peterayer,
I have heard nothing but good things about Evolution Acoustics speakers. My only problem with auditioning them is that without the benefit of a direct comparison with a Raidho or a Magico, I would always wonder if I am missing out on something :)

Goose,
It is rather frustrating that inspite of all the affluence in and around Seattle, there is a dearth of dealers who can provide a convincing audition experience.