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Speakers for low-level listening

My listening area is in an open family room (not ideal, I know, but no other option at present). This means much of my late evening listening in at low levels.

I am presently running B&W 804d4 speakers with a McIntosh MA352 hybrid integrated amp. I like the combination of these components, but the B&Ws seem to lose some detail and sparkle at low listening levels. What comparable floor standing speakers would offer superior low level listening SQ?

I am considering Focal Sopra 2 or perhaps even AK6 Klipschorns (I previously had Klipsch Cornwalls and found them very enjoyable for low level listening). I am especially interested in insights from anyone who has paired McIntosh amplification with either of these speakers or others that performed exceptionally well at low listening levels. 

lance348

Showing 1 response by fsonicsmith

fsonicsmith's avatar
fsonicsmith
980 posts
 

This has been covered many times before. Using what equates to little more than a loudness button is antiquated thinking.  Ultra-sensitive loudspeakers, often horn-loaded, are more dynamic. Dynamic range at all volume levels, including at low levels, is higher. The human brain perceives increased dynamic range as more satisfying at low listening levels. You yourself already wrote;

I previously had Klipsch Cornwalls and found them very enjoyable for low level listening

So, I have to ask, haven't you already answered your own question?

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