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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 helomech

helomech
1,769 posts
 

Borresen speakers are designed to compensate for our ear’s lack of sensitivity at lower volumes. They measure poorly by textbook standards but they sound dynamic and satisfying at the loudness levels most listeners prefer. 

The primary complaint I have with B&W’s 800 series is they lack the bass drive and fullness you’d expect from a speaker of their respective size and woofer complements, which is especially true of the 804s and 803s, much less so the big 800s. I have never found the 800 series to lack any “sparkle” or detail in the highs. Their diamond tweeter is one of the best in existence. 

Alternatively, perhaps a better and cheaper option vs new speakers would be to invest in expertly designed room treatments, especially with regard to the high frequencies. 

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