Bob,
Based on what you've listed as your desires, I'd say you should pass on the Sonata II. Great speaker, which I've owned, but really more suited for tubes, especially low(er) powered SET. Huge soundstage, but not very detailed. Woody, more diffuse sound. Not a great match with powerful SS. I agree with Jim, regarding the La Folia. While I have a pair for sale on AGon (I was trying to "downsize" from my SF Amati Homage), my recommendation would be the same. The La Folia is basically a world-class monitor (i.e. precise, detailed, holographic imaging from the Dynaudio Esotar tweeter and mid-drivers) built on top of a tight, deep bass driver (11" Focal in a dipole config which goes truly to the low 20s). If I hadn't already had the Amati, I would be keeping the La Folia. IMO, they are one of the best speakers at that price range. 8 ohm, easy to drive. 92 db efficiency. Alan Yun from Silverline calls the La Folia his speaker for "detailed, critical listening" especially with Classical and chamber music. I'd definitely try to give them a listen.
Happy hunting.
Tom
Based on what you've listed as your desires, I'd say you should pass on the Sonata II. Great speaker, which I've owned, but really more suited for tubes, especially low(er) powered SET. Huge soundstage, but not very detailed. Woody, more diffuse sound. Not a great match with powerful SS. I agree with Jim, regarding the La Folia. While I have a pair for sale on AGon (I was trying to "downsize" from my SF Amati Homage), my recommendation would be the same. The La Folia is basically a world-class monitor (i.e. precise, detailed, holographic imaging from the Dynaudio Esotar tweeter and mid-drivers) built on top of a tight, deep bass driver (11" Focal in a dipole config which goes truly to the low 20s). If I hadn't already had the Amati, I would be keeping the La Folia. IMO, they are one of the best speakers at that price range. 8 ohm, easy to drive. 92 db efficiency. Alan Yun from Silverline calls the La Folia his speaker for "detailed, critical listening" especially with Classical and chamber music. I'd definitely try to give them a listen.
Happy hunting.
Tom