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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
gano
154 posts
 

https://speakerchoices.com/

I am not sure what would determine the parameters for low level listening, but Erin's Audio Corner would have clues

jastralfu's avatar
jastralfu
420 posts
 

I would suggest adjusting your five band equalizer to see if you can get the sound you want at low level with your current speakers before purchasing anything new.  I have an MA8900 and due to my neighbors (I live in a townhome) my late night listening is often somewhere between upper 40s to mid 50s db.  It’s around midnight right now and I’m around 50db but I have tweaked the equalizer to accentuate the higher frequencies.  I’ve got a couple of subs so I actually have to turn those down a bit even at low levels.  I find it very enjoyable to listen late night.  I still get a very good soundstage and imaging and it’s so quiet everywhere else it feels louder than it is.

kclone's avatar
kclone
680 posts
 

I have a McIntosh MA 8900 as well.  Mine is paired with the Klipsch Cornwall IVs.  I listen at low levels most nights, I haven't felt the need to mess the the EQ at all, I seem to be able to get good frequency extension without it.  

ghdprentice
7,046 posts
 

I have to second or third the headphone idea. I have a separate headphone system myself and in many respects rivals my main system… while different it is inspiring and compelling each time I listen to it. I will say it was as much effort assembling as my main system. My systems are shown under my userID.

freediver
1,214 posts
 

To expound on my advice to try headphones..
 With your amp,the Sennheiser HD800S would be my budget choice,boasting some of the most amazing imaging & sound staging available from headphones at any price! They also offer a beautifully voiced mid range & treble but are a little bass lite compared to more expensive choices...Moving higher up the cost chain I only have direct experience with the HiFiMan Susvara,which is quite simply for myself,the stuff dreams are made of...
 

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