Seeking speakers under $3K for 10x12 ft room and driven by 20wpc tube amp


I currently have a pair of Apogee Acoustics Centaur Minors driven by a new Black Ice integrated tube amp. The small but dedicated listening room means I’m doing near-field listening with me and the speakers forming a 6’ triangle. As you might expect, these speakers have terrific midrange but at 85dB sensitivity they are a bit difficult to drive and feel limited in dynamics. The room is acoustically treated.


I almost exclusively listen to small combo acoustic jazz and vocals and I’m seeking recommendations for something easier to drive and more dynamic that provides a more “palpable presence” of the musicians when played at louder levels. Prefer small floorstanders for aesthetics but not essential and preferably a brand where I might have a chance to audition them (I’m in SoCal). Also open to used (e.g. something like Wilson Cubs). TIA!

p.s. thanks for the Sonus faber suggestion.

ristretto

Showing 1 response by snookhaus

I have a similar size room, but no treatment. I ended up with Neat Acoustics Petite. If you are considering a British style speaker, I would give them a try. I have driven them with an LTA Z10 and an Orchid Audio GAN amp. They have some interesting floor standers. 

I've had the Omega Super Alnico's. I enjoyed them for Jazz. For me, they definitely needed a sub. 

Sonus Faber or Serblins are on my list to try at some point.