Speaker Pairing for Sugden A21SE


Just bought the Sugden A21SE integrated amp and would like to know what speakers pair well with it. My hunch is some iteration of the Harbeth C7 or another Brit monitor, though I'm also considering the Fritz Carreras. I'll probably buy used, and would like to stay under 3000, though I have a little flexibility (just a little). Thanks for any insights.

anton99

Listening to my A21se right now with some Rogers LS3/5a’s, and the sound is great!  I’ve had trouble pairing the Sugden with Cornwall IV’s because of noise out of one channel.  Could just be something in my audio chain, don’t know.

Currently listening to A21se Sig and Devore O93's playing Satie Piano Music on Qobuz.  Its wonderful.  I also have a pair of Spatial  Audio  M4 Triode Master that are also wonderful with the A21. The M4 when available used can be purchased for a lot less.  Even though I have not had Proac speakers paired with my A21, previous time spent with that line makes me think it would also be another good match.  

 

I’m pairing the Sugden A21SE Signature with Jean-Marie Reynaud (JMR) Offrande V1 speakers, and the synergy is simply stunning. Both are known for their emotional depth, tonal richness, and natural musicality, creating a system that feels intimate and immersive. The Sugden’s warm, Class A midrange blends beautifully with the Offrande’s organic voicing, delivering expressive vocals and instruments with lifelike presence. Soundstaging is expansive and holographic, with precise imaging and a deep, airy presentation. Dynamics lean more toward nuance than impact offering refined microdynamics over sheer power. Treble is smooth and detailed without fatigue, while the bass is tight, tuneful, and focused on articulation rather than raw slam. It prioritizes musical connection over hi-fi spectacle and is ideal for long, emotionally engaging listening sessions.

The posters $3k budget (with some wiggle room) is seriously being compromised. 
Even used.

Update: I bought a pair of Trenner and Friedl Art monitors to go with the Sugden. Perfect match. The Arts are supposed to be the best entry into T and F, which doesn't get much press here in the states (they're Austrian). The latest model of the Arts goes for around 6 grand new, though they might have gone up; I got a used pair of the previous model. I have been thrilled and satisfied by these speakers. When a friend them for the first time he couldn't believe how big they sounded for such a small speaker. A few months later he bought a pair. They're beautiful, as well.