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Upgrading from Martin Logan ESL15a w/Force subs to Wilson Sasha Daw or Alexia 2 w/JL subs

I would like some guidance on switching from ML to the Wilsons mentioned above.  While I do really enjoy the ML I'm looking for something smaller as well a better connection between the highs and lows which both of the Wilsons do better.  There are numerous other things I like about the Wilsons as well.

Currently, I have the McIntosh MC-1.25kwh mono blocks with my ML center powered by a MC-601.  My speaker wire is transparent.  My Processor is a McIntosh MX160 and I am using Roon with a NAS and Lumin Streamer.  I will also be adding a McIntosh pre-amp to improve performance on the 2 channel.  Haven't decided between C2700 or C53 yet.  Adding a Clear Audio Concept turntable but haven't settled in on cartridge.  There is no rush to do anything, so I'm open to opinions.

A couple comments on the Wilson's.....the midrange and tweeter are the same on both but the Alexia 2 has much more adjustability.  While demoing without the subs the Sasha Daw bass hit me but the Alexia 2 went through me.  Sasha has 2 - 8" bass drivers and the Alexia 2 has an 8" and a 10".

I listen to all types of music including Jazz from the 50's - 60's, Acoustic, classical symphonies, rock and progressive/alternative rock.

Thanks in advance for your honest feedback.
woots

Showing 1 response by brianslids

brianslids
1 posts
 

Woots,

The last post was on 3-2-2021 so just curious what you ended up doing.  I just received my Sasha DAW's on 9/30/2022 and as much as it stretched my budget, I am in heaven.  They are incredible.  

I absolutely agree with adding subs.  It doesn't matter if you have a full range speaker or bookshelves - some people just have no clue.  I do agree if you have subs to run an external crossover to let the subs handle the heavy lifting.  I've had both configurations, B&W 804's with a pair of subs and replaced with 805 D3 with a pair of subs and nothing can replace a full range speaker - NOTHING!  You'll never get the same benefit a full range speaker has and anyone that says different - please step into my office and prepare to get smacked down.  

My question is what sub's did you go with?  I'm getting pressured into a pair of the JL Fathom V2 13's.  I've heard mixed reviews on the amps they use and needing to replace the V1 after a few years.  I had a pair of REL T9 with my 805 for years and they worked flawlessly.  With the Sasha I was also looking at a pair of the REL S/812.  I know the JL have the ability to "dial" in them more than the REL - but there's been a lot of praise for the RELs these days.

Any suggestions would be helpful!

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