Which speakers are higher efficiency?


Hi, I am in the market to buy a high efficiency speakers to match my 300B with given 15W output. When I do some search online, I have 2 speakers in my mind:

Reference 3a Grand Veena Loudspeakers
Efficiency: 90 dB. 1Watt/meter.
Frequency response: 36Hz - 20 kHz (+/-) 3dB.
Up to 100 kHz high frequency extension.
Bass loading: F3@ 36Hz., tuned port,
quasi-second order, -15dB at 20Hz.
Impedance: 5 Ohm (+/-0.5 Ohm).
Power handling: 200 Watts RMS.
Phase: Almost constant at 10 degrees @94dB, wide band.

Focal 1037be
Type: 3-way bass-reflex floor standing speaker
Frequency response (+ or-3dB) 38hz-40hz
Sensitivity (2,83 V/1m) 91dB
Nominal impedance 8 Ohms
Minimum impedance 3,5Ohms
Crossover frequency 350Hz/2000Hz

Just look at the number, Focal 1037be is more efficiency, b/c it gives 91dB v.s. Reference 3a Grand Veena only give 90dB. Is that right? or am I missing something here?
Or can you guys suggest a 4~6k high efficiency speakers for me?
Thanks,
audiorichard

Showing 2 responses by martykl

I don't know the Grand Veena, but used to own Ref 3a deCapo loudspeakers. The deCapos aren't hugely sensitive, but they present a very easy load. The minimalist x-over is said to contribute to this. Bottom line: they work very well with 300Bs (no obvious deviations in FR), but have limitations on dynamics and ultimate spl. If you can live with (and listen within) these limitations, Tvad's original comment is right on. If you can't, Johnk and Gregm offer good advice.

Marty
Richard,

Off my experience with the 15ish watt Cary monos and the deCapos, I'd tend to disagree with the general theme here.

If you don't listen loud and you're in a small room and your program material contains little deep bass (and from your last post, all of that sounds true), I'd suspect that you'll be fine with your amp and the 3a speaker. OTOH, if your jazz collection is long on Jimmy Smith, you might want to reconsider.

This is just MHO, and it's based on a different - but related - hardware combo, but I doubt you're NEED more grunt for the 3a speakers. It probably wouldn't hurt to have it, though.

Marty