Vienna Acoustics vs Revel Studios?


Three years ago, I invested in a system that has given me many hours of listening pleasure. I have Vienna Acoustics Beethoven speakers, a SimAudio I-5 integrated, and an Ultech CD player. At that time, that was about as much as my budget would allow, and I have never regretted buying any part of this system. The only "problem" I am having is that the system lacks "rock out' power. It is perfect for moderate listening, but will occasionally clip or become slightly shrill or unfocused when "cranked."

So now, of course, I'm pondering all kinds of potential remedies. I could simply use the I-5 as a pre-amp and add something like a Bryston 7B ST for extra volume. I could sell the I-5 and go for separates, maybe even try out some tubes, such as the Sonic Frontiers Power 3 set-up (although I have heard that tubes are not necessarily a good match for the 'warm' Vienna speakers). Or I could sell the system and try out the Revel Studios (I think the Salons are probably too big for my living room) with some combination of the above to drive them.

I am not a true audiophile, in the sense that I know an awful lot about this stuff, but I do know that I enjoy good music played on a good system. I don't mind paying for top notch equipment, within reason, but I don't want to fork over 10-12K when a modest adjustment in my current set-up would be almost as good.

So, I appeal to all of you true audiphiles for advice. Please show me the way. Would the Revels be a big step up from the Viennas? Would separates be much better than adding an amp, while using the I-5 as a pre-amp? Any suggestions on possible matches?

I realize the answers are, to some degree, subjective. But I am interested in your feedback and experiences.

Many thanks.
chriscox9674

Showing 3 responses by clueless

Thank you all. As i'm in the market myself, I've enjoyed your insights on two highly thought of speakers. You folks are so civil.

Sncerely, I remain
Waltersalas, you area an audiophile of action. We love that about you! Damn the torpedoes, Go with the Capitole. Your system is so good it will only reveal the flaws of anything less.

Sincerely, I remain
Walter: the "punt now pay later plan"... we've all been there....audiophilia at its best! And you know..sometimes I fell my whole life is on "severe back order" ...no wonder I love this madness. The music helps though, doesn't it?

And thanks, good Bishop. There may be some static now and then but we're all on the same wavelength.

Sincerely, I remain