speaker upgrade fever


I'm considering a speaker upgrade to compliment my Aesthetix Mimas integrated. Currently, I've got KEF Ref 1 monitors paired with (2) REL S/3 subs. Must stay away from bright, analytical and clinical presentation. Room size 12'x19'. Music is jazz, acoustic Americana, Chamber, symphonic etc. 

Looking at the ProAc K1, Triangle Duetto and the DeVore o/baby. Also, a huge departure, Vandersteen Treo CT, floor standers. I understand Vandersteen pairs well with the Mimas.

Always open to suggestions, happy to buy quality used and demo.

Budget, ~$8-$11K

larseand

Hi Larseand, 

I have no idea if you have purchased a new pair of monitors or not but I thought I would at least weigh in on my experience.  I wanted a pair of Focal 1028BE's. However, I had limited space as well.  I found a pair of brand new 1008BE stand mount speakers at Dedicated Audio for $2,999 (1/2 original asking price).  With the Beryllium tweeter I knew they would be on the bright side but by no means are they too bright (no listening fatigue whatsoever).  I did a ton of due diligence regarding matching them with a proper amplifier.  I had a limited budget as well so could not go crazy.  I "settled" on a Hegel H90.  It has been a match made in sonic heaven. I have the Focal sitting on a pair of Sound Anchor stands (look them up) so no need for a sub. I'm currently only streaming using Tidal to a Bluesound Node 2i. I connect the speakers to the amp using Cardas Parsec cables which helps keep the noise floor low as well.  Do I have a vision to upgrade? Of course. My current go to would be T+A 3100HV integrated and Rosso Fiorentino Arno40 floor standers but it changes all the time.  By the way, I did not demo the Hegel with the Focal, I trusted my research and took a risk but it paid off.  Considering your preferred type of music, here are a few suggested options in no particular order: Fyne Audio F1-8 ($10,400), TAD ME1 ($15,400), Fleetwood Seville ($15,600), Franco Serblin Accordo ($14,000) Good luck and all the best in your search.

+1 for Harbeths. I have the 30.1s (large 2-ways) and have heard the 40.1s (even larger 3-ways). Superb, musical sound in both cases.

Well, I've decided to buy a pair of JA Pulsar 2 graphene monitors. My rationale, it's RARE to find them available on the used market. I can't pass on a chance to own this speaker at 1/2 retail. They've always. been on my speaker bucket list. Also, there are always Harbeth 30's available if I change my mind.

Well when you can find a better speaker than the’ old’ Pioneer S1-ex’s with its S-7ex center let me know.  Maybe the TAD CR’s…maybe

JA Pulsar 2 graphene monitors - great choice! Looks like a good match from your sonic preferences (jazz, acoustic Americana, Chamber, symphonic) meaning you seem to value acoustical accuracy without sacrificing musicality. Both your Mimas and Pulsar fit the bill.

Please keep us posted - we like to hear success stories or to learn something new