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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 trivema

trivema's avatar
trivema
126 posts
 

Look at used Klipsch Forte IIIs, should fit your price range.  I also have a 6-7 foot listening triangle and a 20 wpc integrated tube amp w 300b driving 845 tubes. I usually listen 55-60 dB levels, not too loud but loud enough to feel bass punch and textures of detail. I’ve integrated a 12 inch Klipsch subwoofer at a level where you can hear/feel the bass, but can’t “see” the subwoofer. 
 

System synergy important, as are room acoustics and speaker placement along with good, but not necessarily expensive interconnects and cables. When the lights are down low, and the tubes aglow, the speakers disappear and you’d swear Grace Mahya is in the room with you. 

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