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Thiel 3.6 vs. Dunlavy SC-IV/A

Hi,

I currently own a pair of Thiel 3.6s in my system and like them a lot (their accuracy, imaging, soundstage, neutrality).

However, I have an opportunity to get a pair of Dunlavy SC-IVAs at a great price and wondered if fellow Audiogon members thought I should go for it and make the switch, or stick with the Thiels and save my money (not to mention my back as those Dunlavys are close to 200 lbs each). I haven't had a chance to hear the Dunlavys yet, but have read very positive reviews of them. Wondered if any Dunlavy owners could comment.

From some initial reads, I think the Dunlavys and the Thiels have similar sonic signatures and also require solid matching components. I currently have a Pass X-350 amp in my system so I don't think I have a problem there. Some posters complained of a brightness to the Dunlavys, which is often a complaint about the Thiels. Other posters noted that a solid matching amp will cure any brightness problem.

As I mentioned, I prefer a very accurate, neutral sound. No colorations in the music, and from what I've read the Dunlavys are supposed to do it as well as anyone.

My current system:

Linn Ikemi CD
Adcom GFP-750 preamp
Pass Labs X-350 amp
Thiel 3.6 speakers
justin2468
jayarr
117 posts
 
Justin,
Having heard both extensively and owning one(Thiel), I can say that they are different flavors from the same pot. Each has different strengths, both are excellent speakers. The Thiels excell in detail and transparency. They are a little less dynamic and a touch bright. The Dunlavys excell in coherence and soundstaging. They are a little grainy compared to the Thiels and get congested sounding at loud volumes. I think that the Dunlavys are a lateral move(which may be more to your liking,I don't know) than an upgrade. You need to go listen to them along with your amp and cables. Hope this helps. Enjoy listening.
justin2468 OP
15 posts
 
Guys,

Thanks for all the interesting responses.

Question for pepperdog. Were you referring to the No.39 CD player by Levinson? Also, I may make an upgrade to a Pass pre-amp someday.

Also, interconnects are another area I may look at in the future too.
pepperdog
25 posts
 
Yes, the model 39 cd player from Levinson is the one I was referring to.... or better yet (money wise) the Proceed cdp which is based on the No.39 (transport etc). Also if you want to shock yourself try the model 500 special edition Cambridge cd player with Walker valid points and tuning discs......staggering sounds for the money. I am using the Cambridge cd player with a Red Rose Model 5 integrated amp on my Thiel CS 2.3's with all Tara Labs air 1 cables and all I can say is wow!!! This cd player is under $500, and it reminds me very favorably of my Proceed CDP and Levinson No.39. By the way the Red Rose Model 5 is up for sale on Audiogon, if interested. Thanks,, Geo
jadem6's avatar
jadem6
1,074 posts
 
I own the IVa and love them. I just wrote a review you might read.
I talked with John Dunlavy a few years back and he said"If I wasn't designing speakers, I'd own Theil. They are the closest to his of any speaker made." That is high praise and a great indorsement. I have heard your speaker and believe the IVa will sound bigger and more full. I would say the IVa is more on par with the 7.x series.
bulldogger
274 posts
 
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