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Reference 3A DECapo "BE" spk a major upgrade??

In looking over some past threads, I happened to notice several discussing the value and merits of the Reference 3A DeCapo, and DeCapo i speakers Some of the responses date as far back as 2011-2012.

Since then, Reference has introduced a few new and different speakers, BUT still continues with the DeCapo series. The new version is the DeCapo MM "BE" speaker that has introduced a new tweeter which is made of beryllium, and also changed the veneer to a gray Nextel. I have seen one very good review of the new version on the Soundstage blog, and a few comments here and there, but surprisingly not much else in the way of press.

Therefore, has these changes improved the sound quality of the speaker, or POSSIBLY downgraded it??( not that uncommon for any "new improved" speakers) However, some AG members claimed the older model could compete with many floor standers in $3200 price range. However, since 2012, there are many fine speakers in the $3200 to 3500 range like the Sonus Faber Venene 3.5. a few KEF Reference speakers; B&W's 800 or 805 series falling between $3000-4000

Personally, I was unconvinced by the claims of sonic improvements by Usher in their monitor 718BE which may have the first to utilize this type of driver. Several owners claimed it sounded bright or edgy.

So, has the Reference 3A De Capo "BE" perfected this type of driver, and has it improved the sound quality of the speaker by an extension of the highs?? If you have owned both the older version of this speaker, or the new version, please let us hear from you. Thanks
sunnyjim

Showing 1 response by analogluvr

analogluvr
859 posts
 
Owned a pair of reference three a grand Veenas BE for a while. I found the new tweeter to be beautiful sounding not edgy at all but definitely more extended. The only thing that would concern me with the reference three a offerings would be the efficiency. Someone once referenced an article that had tested the De capos and they were something like 88 DB instead of 91 that was claimed. I like to run 300 B tubes so for me that is a concern. If that's not a concern for you I think you will be very happy with the speakers!
And to be fair I think many speaker manufacturers suffer from this problem.
I did love my grand Veenas but I switched to the Tannoy prestige line which cost a heck of a lot more. The things that drew me there were slightly richer sounds and the better imaging. Otherwise I could've happily lived with the grand Veenas for a long time.
If I were you choosing between the three you mentioned it would be hands down the DiCapo.
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