2. speakers
  3. 168355-139155

Reasonably sensitive speakers for tube amps, max $2k/pair, new or used

While this topic has been covered before, I'm interested in both recent experiences with new products or anyone who just would like to chime in.

I have a couple friends interested in tube amps, lower wattage -- 40 wpc or below. Before they pull the trigger there, they need to find the best higher sensitivity speakers they can, hopefully at $2k or below, new or used.

QUESTION: What high sensitivity speakers would you recommend to them, new or used? What did you try and NOT like?
Characterizations of their sound, experience with a trial period, the company, etc. appreciated.

I'll pass the best answers and links along to them.
hilde45

Showing 2 responses by whiteknee

whiteknee
62 posts
 
Forgot to mention that the Heresy's are listened to on Target stands, not floor risers.
whiteknee
62 posts
 
+1 for Zu Dirty Weekends - I run them with a 15 wpc Cary 300B SET integrated.  The DWs were $1K with the base finish when I bought them 15 months ago.  I team them with a pair of SVS SB1000 Pro subs which were less than $1K.  This is a nice $2K combo that sounds excellent with acoustic, rock, blues and jazz tunes in a smaller room...15x15.

The DWs also sound wonderful with an 18 wpc First Watt SIT-3, which is solid state but has some tube sonic qualities. The SIT-3 is used primarily in my main system with a PrimaLuna tube preamp running Belle Klipsch speakers and a 2x12 SVS sub, but in a much larger room.

I also have a pair of Heresy I's and a pair of Heresy II's which both shine with these amps and can be found for under $1K online.   These, also matched with a sub, would sound great with a tube amp, but not as nice as the aforementioned Heresy IIIs or IVs but easier to locate at a reasonable price.  Bob Crites has updated crossovers etc. that can help to modernize these older unit. 
More to discover