2. speakers
  3. 193311-202003

Sonus Faber Amati Tradition or Serafino G2

 

Hello - Literally my first post here. Relatively new to the hobby and looking to build a new hifi system and can use some advice here. 

I currently have a pair of BW Formation Duos (these are fantastic by the way) with Cambridge Alva TT V2 turntable and looking to up the game with what would consider to be forever system. 

I know I like the Sonus Faber sound signature. I am trying to decide between a used Amati Tradition (previous gen) vs Serafino G2 (current model) for the same cost. Both driven by Accuphase E-5000 integrated in a 13 ft X 38 ft room with 9.5ft ceiling. I listen to Jazz (50%), Acoustic vocals (25%), Classic rock(25%). Unfortunately, do not have a way to audition them before making the purchase.

Do any of you have experience with both of these and what would you do if you were in my shoes.

Thanks for your guidance in advance.

rock112

Showing 3 responses by blockdaddy21

blockdaddy21's avatar
blockdaddy21
4 posts
 

I recently faced a similar decision in an even larger room with 20ft ceilings and slightly wider dimensions, while considering the Amati Homage versus the Serafino G2. I had the chance to listen to the Amatis powered by the McIntosh MC1.25KWs. While they certainly had impact, I found the low end to be loose, tubby, and not as well-controlled or musical as I preferred. Although the store didn’t have the Serafinos, they did have the Olympica Nova Vs. I found these to be much better controlled, though slightly inferior in the high end. The Amatis were clearly superior in the mid/high, where the Olympicas were just so much more refined and controlled (but still powerful) in the bass.

For me, the Serafino G2s struck the perfect balance, especially when paired with a set of 12" JLAudio E-Subs. I’ve been enjoying this new setup for about two weeks and couldn’t be happier. It fills the room beautifully with refined control, delivering the intrinsic Sonus faber sound signature that initially drew me to the brand.

blockdaddy21's avatar
blockdaddy21
4 posts
 

@rock112 To be clear, my audition was of the latest Amati G5s (Homage series), so I’m not sure you’d be satisfied going up to that level. That’s why the Serafino Homage (G2) was the fitting compromise.

Driving my Serafinos is a Goldmund SR150 putting out 200wpc into 4 ohms. That was part of the consideration for me - I wanted a speaker I could drive reasonably well without moving from my favorite amp. Not only were the Amatis more money, but I’d also have to look at a considerably more substantial amp to have a chance with the Amatis, meaning even more investment.
 

The Serafinos with my Goldmund and some Nordost Frey are glorious. Clear, controlled, balanced, deep and wide sound stage, and with that little bit of golden honey sweetness that is the Sonus faber magic. 

blockdaddy21's avatar
blockdaddy21
4 posts
 

With 320W/4ohms of class AB power you’d certainly have enough for the Serafinos with room to spare. Most of what I’ve seen on the Amatis is that you’d not have much if any headroom at that level. Many folks I spoke with on my journey suggested north of 500w to make the Amatis happy. I heard them with 1.25kw amps and wasn’t impressed, fwiw. My measly 200w/4 Goldmund leaves me wanting for nothing on the Serafinos, but I also have the subs there. 

Good luck, and let us know where you end up!

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