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Speaker Upgrade

Hello. I'm considering upgrading my speakers. I can't say I'm unhappy with my current speakers (what you don't know won't hurt you) but suppose I'm curious if new speakers will make a difference. I'm actually quite happy with my current speakers but psychologically I wonder if a new set will sound better.

My system consists of a Yamaha DSP-1A integrated amp, Pro-Ject Debut Carbonturntable (acrylic platter equipped) with an Ortofon 2M Blue Cartridge, a Denon DVD-2900 DVD/CD player (used just for CD's) and a DBX 3BX-DS. My speakers consist of a pair ofWharfedale Rubiance RB-27's in the front and RB-23's in the rear with a Mirage FRX-S15powered subwoofer. Everything is about 20years old except for the turntable which is about a year old. room is 15 feet by 12 feet and is fairly heavily furnished (it doubles as my office). I have the listening area set up width-wise. And I listen to primarily classical, jazzand big band.

I started thinking about new speakers after seeing so many articles and videos praising the Elac Debut speakers. So naturally these arewhat I'm considering (F5/B5 or F6/B6 combos) and I'll keep the Mirage sub. I did speak to alocal high-end audio shop who suggested thatI also audition Klipsch and B&W. I did meet someone recently who is selling his 1 monthold Elac F5 speakers for $350 so I considering that heavily. But I don't want to just buy a newset of speakers (even if they are a great deal) if they don't sound much different (or better)than my Wharfedale's.

If I do this, I don't think I want to spend much more than $1,000 if new for fronts and rears (I can get the Elac F5/B5 combo for about this new and much less it'd I go used).

Does anyone out there have any experience with and thoughts on Wharfedale Rubiancespeakers as compared with today's speakers like the Elac F5 ad F6?

Thanks
128x128cspiegs
gdnrbob
4,417 posts
 
If you do go the Vandersteen route, try to buy the most recent iteration. Mr. V. constantly upgrades his speakers, so the most recent will have the best components.
That being said, I would opt for the 2ce Signature. Though it will cost more, the closer you come to a current serial number, the closer you will be to current production.
 Vandy's don't discriminate between music styles, they just play it, and play it well. Time and phase alignment, and pistonic drivers make them one of the best buys in hifi. Don't take my word for it, just find a dealer near you or an Audiogon member.
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cspiegs's avatar
cspiegs OP
42 posts
 
Looks like the Vandersteen 2ce signature speakers are going for at least $1,000 plus shipping (none local) on eBay.  The one my friend is selling is not a signature version.  It is about 15 years old and in mint condition. He is asking $600 but I can try and get him down to $500.  And I can drive over and pick them up.
cspiegs's avatar
cspiegs OP
42 posts
 
I'm not really familiar with vandersteen speakers. I suspect the two series is better than the one and the 3 Series is better than the two. Not sure what it means exactly when signature is put in.
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
Yes, it goes 1, 2, 3, Treo, Quatro, 5 and 7.  I would personally purchase a new pair of 1's over a 15 year old pair of 2's.  Newer components means a lot in a pair of speakers.  

cs, email me at ctsooner@alumni.ou.edu Pete
gdnrbob
4,417 posts
 
Well, it is a little more complicated that just 1,2,3.
The smaller the Vandy, the less bass output (due to less cabinet area).
One of the ways to overcome that is to incorporate a sub-especially a Vandersteen sub(-which allows you to use a less powerful amp), and integrates via a crossover. Very ingenious, and it works seamlessly.

Please do contact Pete. I bought his Treo's. He is a very knowledgeable guy.
You can also contact John Rutan at audioconnection (his Agon name and his store). He is one of the best dealers in the Nation.- And, don't feel pressured, he gives great advice without a sales pitch. 
Going the Vandy 1ci route with subs is something I wish I had known about earlier.
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