Spatial M3 Sapphire or Klipsch Forte 4

Not quite the same comparison. But I went from a Spatial Audio X3 to a Cornwall IV and was much happier. The Spatial speakers efficiency rating can be a little optimistic.

spatials will certainly give you the awesome bass impact and a sharp transient response... those are the strengths of that speaker line... you will need more amp than you think to control those giant woofers though...at least for the sapphire series where the speaker is entirely passively driven, sweetie pie lower powered s-e tube amps do not qualify ime

What’s up Ozzy, it’s Mike.
We have had similar speaker journeys. I had the Piega’s the Wilson Sophia, the Cornwall 2’s, then the Cornscalla’s. I then purchased JBL L100 classics, (which I still have).

I then got Klipsch Forte 3’s, which I liked a lot. Had them a year or two. (Thought they were a little thin in the midrange and the highs could have been a little more refined) so I sold them and then got a pair of Martin Logan Impression 11a’s. (Which I just sold) .

So I liked the Forte 3, and the Forte 4 are said to be more refined, so I’m thinking I will like the Forte 4. (Forte 3 also worked well with my 300b tube amp) . Im hearing a lot of good things about the Spatials, (I also heard Pure Audio Project at audio shows and liked them a lot too) with their wide enveloping soundstage, and dynamics, so I’m thinking I might try them out ?

The Spatial Sapphire 3 would be the one I’m thinking about. But if they can’t be run to realistic sound levels with 10 or 12 watts, I may stick with the Forte 4. 

@ozzy62 Do you still own the Cornwall IVs? This is one speaker that has always intrigued me. I listened to a Cornwall a few years ago, but I believe it was a prior model (can't remember if it was II or III) and wasn't much impressed. From what I understand Cornwall IVs are a significant step up ... more refined? While the Cornwalls are not cheap but they're not out of reach. I've always wanted to try one but not sure what to expect. For reference, my current speaker in the main room are Harbeth SHL5+. Your input is appreciated.

@mike_f I have the M3 Sapphires and found that although they are efficient they do like more power. I too was concerned about pushing those 15" Woofers. I wound up with a 50 Watt Octave V70 Class A. I personally love what these speakers do. I do have to say that a very thorough room treatment was in order and they are spectacular!