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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 9 responses by woots

woots's avatar
woots OP
315 posts
 
Audiotroy,

where are you located in NJ?  Lived in Colts Neck for 10 years.  I will definitely check out your recommendation and thanks for your response. 
woots's avatar
woots OP
315 posts
 
Erik,  

I appreciate your feedback. Can you help me understand the adjustments to the Roon a little better. 
Also, you mention the subs from JL are very good but you also mention that my bass is overkill.  I’ve always operated with subs in my systems to cover the lower octaves but don’t think it has ever been overkill.  I will also be using the system for movies as well through the MC160. 
As far as room treatments go I’m guilty as charged so fair point. I’ve been fortunate to have decent equipment but not so fortunate convincing my wife with treatments but it’s always worth another attempt. 
So, I think what you are saying is with the Wilson’s I shouldn’t need subwoofers. Both dealers I have talked to say they recommend subs with the Wilson’s. 
Again, thanks for the feedback and appreciate any additional insights or comments you may have. 
woots's avatar
woots OP
315 posts
 
James633,

Excellent suggestion. My dealer actually recommended that to switch between 2 channel and Home Theater.
I appreciate your suggestion.

Woots
woots's avatar
woots OP
315 posts
 
Yes, you should check them out for a variety of reasons but better transition from the mids' to bass and significantly better tonality in my opinion.  Have never heard the Focal's.  Maybe I should be checking them out!!
woots's avatar
woots OP
315 posts
 
James633,

I was planning on adding the JL Audio CR-1 Sub Crossover.  Is this what you are referencing?  I will have both the C2700 and the MX160 connected into my amps and use a switch to alternate between the 2 channel and Home Theater.  Let me know if this is what you are thinking.

Thanks,
Woots
woots's avatar
woots OP
315 posts
 
Audiorusty,

Really appreciate your feedback.  If was just listening to music on 2 channel I am inclined to agree more.  I will have the system set up as well for Home Theater. While the Wilson's can handle the bass I feel that subs will give that extra bit that movie soundtracks offer.  I am, however, open to your thoughtful suggestion so thanks.

Woots
woots's avatar
woots OP
315 posts
 
James633,

I think the MX160 has a pass through for 2 channel.  I will be doing 2 subs.  The CR-1 will be connected to the 2 channel but I think there is a connection from the MX160 via a manual switch to have both subs connected to the LFE.  Using the LFE since the home theater piece plays in mono.  I think you have explained it well. Hooking it up is anything thing.....

Woots
woots's avatar
woots OP
315 posts
 

@brianslids 

Congrats!!  Way to go!!  After demoing multiple brands I settled in on a pair of S812's.  I also went with the Alexia's and am extremely happy.  As a former REL owner you know the benefits.....but the one I found most useful and successful is how you connect the REL's directly to your amp like your Wilson's, so the subs get the full range. I also upgraded the REL cable and that produced a much cleaner sound.   My system is on the Audiogon systems page under my name.  Let me know if you need assistance getting to the pics.  Interested in your feedback.

woots's avatar
woots OP
315 posts
 

@brianslids 

By the way I ended up going with Audio Research Ref6se pre amp instead of McIntosh and replaced my McIntosh Mono blocks with an Audio Research Ref160S Amp.  Again everything is updated on my system page.

@m-db 

You make some good points.  For me, the connectivity of the REL sub's was a big plus given location of my mechanical room and my actual listening room. I was able to demo the multiple subs and for me settled in on the REL's.

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