Upgrade questions: B&W N803 vs ML Ascent ?


I am ready to replace my Polk LS90 speakers which have served me well for 6 years. I am considering the N803 or the Ascents though I am not sure which one best serves my needs. Additionally, I am willing to consider other speakers. I listen to 40/60 music/movies. Listening prefenences include Bob Marley, Sarah Vaughn, Miles Davis, etc. My room size is 23x12 inches and the related components are as follows : Aragon Soundstage, bryston 4 BST, Aragon 8008x3, Anthem CD-1 and Audioquest cabling.

Any feedback or suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Mike
mcreight

Showing 1 response by sdcampbell

Given your 60/40 ratio of HT to music, I think the B&W's are probably going to be a better choice than the ML Ascents. As noted above, the Ascents, like all electrostatics, need to be placed well away from the wall, and due to their radiation pattern you will have related room acoustic issues to deal with. Further, the Ascents have a very substantial dip in their impedance curve, down to about 1.5 ohms as I recall, which makes them a challenge to pair with the right amp.