Good point, was thinking 5-7k new but ok with used. Lots of time to research. Was hoping to get an understanding of what true mismatching sounds like (those difficult low impedance, hi capacitive zones). Besides the obvious of less dynamics or spl from too low of power.
Determining compatibility with amps
I have a pairing that has been wonderful to me and I may also be looking to set up another similar price-point system (streaming only, larger room) in another house we may build as snow-birds. While very happy now, I want to know more about how to pick speaker and amp pairs to make them more compatible and not ill-advised. No, I don't get to audition equipment (I live in Alaska). There is not a club here. Heck, there's only BestBuy with a Magnolia room. Just "let your ears be your guide" isn't a big help. Help me understand how I can narrow the search for "kinds" of speakers and topologies of amps for my possible upcoming build. I have gathered that using speaker plots, it's the areas where the phase drops below zero (capacitive), coinciding with low impedance that are to to be avoided. I've looked at several sets and can see for example, why series XOs might be desirable. I guess I'm asking is, what values/relationships constitute "be careful" or "avoid"? And if there technically are real issues, what are the audible affects, or kinds of audible distortions one might expect? While I'm not married to tube amps, switching to this one was a very large improvement. I love the voicing/timbre, imaging, and they definitely disappear. It's almost scary.
I'll ask to avoid making pairing suggestions but instead try to help me understand, "these (kinds) are good for this kind of amp because"... My virtual system is up and I've included my speakers' plots as an example by which to comment or use as an example. I welcome using them as a discussion point. FWIW, my amp has an 80hz hi-pass that I use. One reason I like it, as mid-sized stand mounts seem to be what I lean towards, is this aids with integrating subs. Maybe the best answer is to duplicate it all! I may be traveling soon so I may not post often but will read everything for sure! I've got a technical background (the reason I ask) but not in EE so be gently. Curious minds just want to know.
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@vthokie83 FWIW our plan to build is 45 min sw of VATech. |
Well AKGWIZ a 17x 32 room, with a "half" vault of 13 ft, and the rest 9ft ceilings, is a pretty clean slate to start with. Great for long standing frequencies. With a room that size there are numerious full range speakers that'll shine, so IMHO - kiss (keep it sweet & simple). The fancier the plumbing the more likely you'll clog the drain. So why monkey with subs if you don't have to. Lots of files like their Maggie's, & they have their pro's, but for my ear I'd choose the big Martin Logans. Both brands love power amps, I'd say you'll get considerably more speaker from the Logans. But there's also the school of thought that lower power amplifiers sound better, for example the Classe' DR3 VHC, Mark Levinson ML-2, Krell KSA-50S, Valve Amplification Company PA90D in triode, or the Wyetech Topaz 572. These amps will run high efficiency speakers with a nominal impedance of 8 ohms all month. Offering transparency, attack, articulation, headroom, timbre and a soundstage that dazzles, matched with the proper speaker .... to kill for. Think Avantgarde, Tannoy Westminster or even Canterbury's, Volti Audio Vittora's, and don't forget the humble Klipsch K-horn. To get the most out of any of these combinations not only requirers, but demands outstanding upstream components (garb in garb out), that said, I'm sure you already knew that. Enjoy the voyage.
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@thehorn thanks for the thoughtful and helpful opinions. Yeah, if this project goes ahead I'm very excited to move a bit up from my current setting, as much as I think it's s outstanding already. Seen lots of love for Qualiton valve amps so keeping eyes peeled for a 50w version. New ones are 75w. Trying to watch budget so used is fine. I'll look into your suggestions too. Plenty of time to scheme and watch listings. |
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