I like this topic. In the real world don’t we tend to listen at modest volumes? Like others here I often listen at low volumes early in the morning while the house is asleep and not missing any detail or dynamics at low volumes is something I enjoy and now require with any system changes. I feel my current setup is superb at it. I’m using Cube Nenuphar Mini’s with a Line Magnetic LM845 Special and a pair of REL S510’s. Fantastic at low volumes and high as well. Most Friday or Saturday nights my wife and I listen and she’s a bass head and specifically listens to songs with bass. She gets a kick out of any track that makes the windows rattle.
I’ve used other amps that also sound great at low volumes including First Watt and Primaluna. I think the commonality is speakers with good efficiency and tube amps or amps that are lower wattage but can deliver those watts regardless of volume.
SPEAKERS THAT SOUND ALIVE & DYNAMIC AT LOW LISTENING LEVELS
- Seeking speakers that sound alive and dynamic at 55 dbs with occasional peaks at 60 dbs. Headphones do not work for me. My ears were just tested and ENT advised my ears are normal for a 72 year old. He said that I have normal age related hearing loss. My ears are uncomfortable when I listen over 55 dbs. My current system is as follows:
Martin Logan11A impression loudspeakers with 2 SVS 4000 subs.
Bryston 4B3 Cubed power amp & Bryston BP-19 preamp.
Chord Qutest Dac-with LHY linear power supply.
Lumin U2 mini streamer with S Booster power supply.
Before I change speakers I plan to upgrade my DAC to Weiss 204 with Linear power supply, and then purchase Schitt Audio Loki Max equalizer (to boost bass and treble) hopefully to counteract Fletcher Munson Curve.
Finally I was thinking of Klipsch Forte 4 & Cornwall 4, and Frigg 2 by O Audio, as
reviews of all three say they all sound great at low volumes. I know many say Klipsch is not high end or very revealing, but is there anybody out there that owns or has heard any of the above. Any suggestions would be appreciated. I enjoy this hobby and the great music it brings to the table. I don't want to stop listening and just seeking to find a solution that would allow me to continue musical enjoyment.
Thanks for your thoughts.