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When spending less than $5,000 how much of a guide is price?

When spending less than $5,000 for a set of speakers, how much of a guide is price? This question arises out of my current search for a new set of speakers.

Don’t know if anyone here is aware of the massive fire in Fort McMurray Alberta and surrounding area? Well I work there (fortunately don’t live there), was evacuated, and will be off work indefinately.

As a result I reduced my speaker budget to $1,500 (Canadian). I’m quite intriqued by Totem Acoustic’s Arro and Sttaf, and some used Zu Audio.

There is a demo Sttaf with a minor crack in the veneer available for $1,500. There is a used Zu Essence and Zu Omen Def available for approx the same amount. The Zu’s are 5 years old.

So I have available these speakers, well reviewed, thoughtfully and carefully built. But even though the price I can purchase them at is roughly the same, new the price differential is great.

The Sttaf new is $2,200. Five years ago the Zu’s would have been about $1,000 more new (at least).

Does this matter?
jimspov

Showing 2 responses by mapman

mapman's avatar
mapman
22,838 posts
 
What matters most is the Totem's are designed to work best with higher power higher current SS amps and the Zu's are designed to be more tube amp friendly.

Either might sound best depending on amp used.   So what amp will be used?

Also how big is the room and how loud would you like to be able to listen without impaired performance?

mapman's avatar
mapman
22,838 posts
 

Jimspov,  off the cuff I think that amp will be much more versatile with the Zu's than Totem.   

It will fit the bill nicely with the Zus but I strongly suspect will probably run out of steam early with Totem.


BTW I have heard both and believe either is capable of sounding top notch but only with the right setup as mentioned.

Price/cost alone means nothing and this case is no different.

Much better to choose wisely and save money whenever possible.

Cheers and good luck.

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