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...bookshelf speakers that sound good at low volume...

Hello to all...

Looking for new bookshelf speakers that sound good at low volume

CD-only listening; powering with 35w/8ohm Monoprice integrated, with silver interconnects; speaker cable home made twisted 14g solid core copper, bare wire connected to JBL L25 "PRIMA" Big 2-ways...

In approx. 14’ x14’ room in apt: multi use area - dining/kitchen/tv-gaming

If dedicated listening: approx 8’away (speaker cabinets 6’ center to center; speakers are not mirror-image const.)

Speakers sound great at medium+ volume - they really sing - but are really muddy and not detailed at low volume.

Options: replace integrated with vintage or new 50-75w/ch (with or without DAC) OR new or vintage bookshelf speakers... budget $500-$1000 max.

Located in Metro NYC area...

At present - I am gonna keep the JBLs: could their low volume presentation change with a better or higher wattage integrated?

I know I am casting a wide net here, not looking for " try it - see how it sounds": looking for experiences and opinions based on trial and errors of others willing to share.

Thanks in advance to all... Best Wishes - Be Well...
insearchofprat
doodle6
71 posts
 
Another vote for the Ascend Acoustics Sierra 2, BUT their bottom end is anemic.  If you want a really full bottom end as well, try BMR Philharmonitors or ProAc Response 2.  Patience is required to find either in your budget, though, but it’s possible.
Post removed 
insearchofprat OP
189 posts
 
digsmithd
Originally started forum with 2nd system in mind - sure that comments also pertain to my main system: 
I am now playing the KEF Q1s with a Parasound HCA-750A direct, using the gain pots on the rear of the unit... Speaker cable homemade twisted 14g SOLID COPPER CORE; interconnect older Harmonic Technologies Pro Silway Mark lll; power cord PS Audio SC Statement
Luv my Q1s - do you have any suggestions regarding an integrated or power amp to achieve your suggestion of a more powerful/cleaner amp (new or vintage/used) - in the $500-1000 range
clhs04
62 posts
 
I can’t say I agree with the “amp doesn’t matter” speculation..as I feel it does.

so I would suggest ditching the monoprice and getting a more recent used Exposure or Creek integrated.
along with perhaps a nice pair of Epos bookshelf’s.
you will still be in your budget and enjoy.
helomech
1,519 posts
 
Normally I suggest high sensitivity speakers with big paper cone woofers for these situations, but in your case the problem could very well be the Monoprice amp. 35 watts/ch would normally be enough power for JBLs in a room that size, but that’s if the power is RMS, full bandwidth. I wouldn’t be surprised if the integrated’s RMS power is closer to 10 watts/ch in reality.

A low-efficiency bookshelf speaker like the KEF LS50 is likely to leave you worse off. 

I’d probably put that $1K toward a better amp like a pre-owned Rega Elex-R or the Yamaha A-S801. The latter has a variable loudness control that will improve your low-volume listening regardless of partnering speaker, and you’ll have a great amp for when you do finally upgrade the JBLs. 




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