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Where to go after Polk LSI15's

As the new year approaches I'm beginning to get the audiophile itch---something I haven't had in over four years, which is the longest I've gone without the itch. I have a combination of AVA and Odyssey electronics,and Polk LSI15's. I'm thinking of upgrading the Polk's and would like to get suggestions as to the next logical speaker upgrade---particularly from former LSI15 owners. $2,500 - 3,000 range max. Thanks in advance for your feedback.
a_passion

Showing 2 responses by mceljo

mceljo
1,357 posts
 
I've heard the Polks in a store once, so I can't really comment on them one way or the other. Having said that, The price range you're talking about is exactly what a pair of Focal 836v floorstanding speakers cost. I've owned mine for about a little over 6 months and love them more than the day I brought them home. I've heard speakers that sounded both "different" and "better", but the "better" was always either a much more expensive speaker or much better supporting equipment than I have. Try to find a place to listen to a pair and see if you don't like them.
mceljo
1,357 posts
 
My previous speakers were Infinity IL-50s and I always considered them to be excellent in the mid/vocal range. I think now I'd describe them compared to my Focals as lacking detail in the highs and punch in the lows. It's interesting to me how a completely different sound changes ones idea of what they like. I'd suggest being open to all available options even if they are not known for a particular aspect like the midrange.

Having said that, you may night like the sound of the Focals as their tweeters are not necessarily smooth and seem to be a polar characteristic for listeners.

When I was trying to figure out which speakers to purchase I took in my "low rider" CD that is an excellent recording but has truly deep and powerful bass line. I wanted to see how the Focal 836v compared to my Infinity's that had built in powered 10 inch subwoofers. As expected, the bass line wasn't as strong, but I was so taken with how wonderful it sounded overall I almost forgot to notice the lack of bottom end. Now, it's one of the few recordings that I use a subwoofer because it's just more fun with the added punch, but really sound fine without it.

Don't exclude any speaker without taking the chance to listen to it if you had an opportunity. I didn't listen to nearly as many speakers as I could have and so far have not found anything I like better, but I may have been a little lucky in my nearly impulse decision on what to purchase. Sometimes you just know when you like something and for me it was my Focals.
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