Speakers for leading edge, transients, speed and big sound


Hello- I am looking to spend about 20-30k on used speakers ( guessing they would have been -40K new a few years back). Any suggestions welcome. I have a 14*20 room and I am looking for dynamics, potentially a great sounding horn or equivalent. Excited by Tektons but since I have the budget wondering if there's anything better. I did have the JBL M2s that I really enjoyed and Revel Salon 2s that I didn't so much

Thank you!

saummisra

@saummisra --

Look for a pair of used Meyer Sound X-10’s. They’re active speakers and are about the best that can be had in the 15" woofer/midrange + horn/waveguide class of speakers out there. That’s including the JBL M2, K2 S9900, Everest’s etc., and yes, you’ll have to take my word for it. They don’t sound like horns but deliver a big, effortless, delicate and coherent presentation. Great tonality as well. There’s a "domesticized" tower version in veneer, but I’d seek out the regular duratex finished pro-look version that needs to be lifted up on some low stands. They’re no longer in production and are hard to find, I gather, and they’re industrial looking for sure, but if you’re in this for the sound and what you’re addressing, they’re the real deal and not some overpriced, prettitied home stereo so-so stuff. 

Another interesting option could be the the dutch Stage Accompany speakers, namely the M57 and M59 models. They house a high sensitivity ribbon midrange/tweeter (SA 8535) that plays down to 1.5kHz and up to 20kHz. A friend of mine is using the M57’s (a 2-way MTM design with the SA 8535 and SA 1205 12" woofers) actively configured and subs augmented - a great setup. Personally I’d go for the X-10’s, but the SA speakers are very, very good, and they can be had new within your budget. Like the X-10’s they’re no audiophile beauties but rather made in rugged duratex finish. They’re not about looks, popular audiophile brands, vanity or other but just great sound. EDIT: actually the SA speakers can be had in a range of finishes and colors, other than duratex. 

Then there’s ATC’s SCM300ASL Pro. Outboard actively configured speakers, great sounding to boot, and with a little luck you might be able to find them used within your budget. 

Lastly: Sound Labs ESL speakers, 7ft version on up and with a dedicated sub setup. 

Speakers for leading edge, transients, speed and big sound

My first thought was a line array and/or dipole speaker like the Nola Baby Grand, Genesis Forte, etc., but they are mostly out of your price range even used.  But I found this Pure Audio Project speaker that may well do everything you’re looking for yet starts at under $13k new, and there are a couple available used on USAM.  Just another option to ponder, and best of luck.

https://pureaudioproject.com/quintet15-wall-of-sound-open-baffle-speakers-for-large-rooms/

Add Vivid Giya G3 or G2 to your audition list.  I recommend looking no further.  True timbre, balanced frequency response, fast, dynamic, excellent leading edge and decay, holographic sound stage.  Get past their eccentric form, the lack of horns, and give them the front end and amplification they deserve and they will provide musical bliss.  Read professional reviews.  Used they will be in your price range.  Contact the importer…GTT Audio in NJ (www.gttaudio.com).  They may have some used on their site.  No vested interest.  Just a great dealer.  

Rockports or Wilson’s.

Fast, great transient response, very coherent, and don’t have the coloration of horn drivers. With your price range you owe it to yourself to take your time, use your ears, not ours.