The best speaker you ever heard?

Tom writes: "nearly 100% of all professional recording studios use the B&W Nautilus 801 as their reference for the best quality sound".

Really? Nearly 100%? Well, the nasty little Yammie NS10 is ubiquitous too.

I think studios have different requirements to many domestic situations and often master at higher volumes than much of our home listening is done at. If one lives in an apartment and has to respect one's neighbours, one wants speakers that are enticing at low levels.

Regards,

Not that it makes any difference, but I would like to see evidence of nearly 100% using B&W. I would also like to know what they pay for these speakers.

Naim Audio DBL. Because it is one of the few reasonably sized loudspeaker that is able to capture the live "you are there" kind of musical experience. This loudspeaker and I emphasize the word loud is not an audiophile loudspeaker but one that allows the listener to get to the soul of music without any form of compression. Best used in the active format to fully exploit the potential of the loudspeaker albeit at a humongous cost on the amplification. You will require 3 stereo amps to operate this loudspeaker in active.

Montana WAS's. Heard them and was really impressed with the seamlessness of the cross-overs; the midrange clarity; and the deep, realistic bass that extends evenly toward the midrange. Had to buy them. They are not even broken in yet and they continue to astonish me every day. I can't believe how clear the cymbals and vocals are!

Someday, I'd love to be able to hear all of the speakers referenced above (that would be a noble quest). In the meantime, I'm plenty thrilled with these. If any of you are ever in the Charlotte, NC area, drop me a note.

Dunlavy SC IV-A's. Great clarity and soundstage. Excellent bass. Huge speakers but sweet music!