Help with speaker selection


Hi all,

I’ve considering upgrading from my beloved Aerial 10T’s which will remain in a second system. What I’m looking to improve from the 10T’s is the detail, while maintaining the extreme listenability the Aerials bring (zero harshness). Also I want to improve in the lower mid bass/bass detail. The 10T’s will play low but the detail could be better.

So far I’ve been impressed with the Sonus Faber Olympica Nova V’s. They really impressed me with all of the attributes I’m looking to improve over my Aerials. They had a wonderfully cohesive presentation with detail and no harshness. The bass was outstanding and articulate.

I’ve only begun shopping so I’m looking for other recommendations to consider. I heard the Aerial 7T’s and was not nearly as impressed as I was with the SF’s.

Others on the list that I haven't heard yet include:

Revel Salon2/Studio2

Aerial 20T V2 (impossible to find!)

 

Amps will be JC1’s, with a solid state front end (Levinson).

Thanks in advance!!

Ag insider logo xs@2xhk_fan

Hello @ghdprentice ​​​​and @hk_fan !  I own the Revel Salon 2's and have heard the SF Amatis at Overture in Delaware.  I have to disagree with Bard.  I have the Salon 2s in a large family room that connects through the eat in area and then large kitchen, So a large space with vaulted ceiling and fireplace.  The speakers are on the short fireplace wall projecting into the long open space.  I power them with Audionet Max amps and MM Makua wi onboard  Tambaqui.  The Grimm MU1 streamer comes and goes downstairs.   Anyway, the tall Salon 2s project beautifully in the big space with high ceiling over them.  They are not analytical at all, just easy going and musical.  They are far less resolving than my YG Haileys.  I heard the Amatis the same day I bought the Salon 2s.  To me, by comparison, the SF Amatis were a bit darker, less lively and less resolving.  I had the Studio 2s before and traded up to the Salons.  Same sound signature but huge difference in presence, bass and amount of air they move.  Good for a smaller room.

I liked the Salon 2s so much I considered getting another pair for my downstairs system.  So I lugged them down there and hooked them up.  They were way to tall and imposing for my smaller, seated on a closer couch listening space.  Back upstairs they went and I knew I needed a shorter speaker for downstairs.

The Salon 2s excel in a large open room with plenty of power.

Sounds like a fun journey - I encourage you to listen to as many speakers as you can and if possible bring your 'front end' when you are getting close.

I have Sonus faber Olympica Nova Vs and absolutely love them - drive by Moon 860A V2.  If I was to add a speaker to put on your list - I consider listening to Devore Super 9s.

Good luck in your journey and enjoy the music.

How about the Paradigm Persona 9H? I heard them at Capital Audio Fest. Are you buying new or used? I see a pair of these out there for $19.000.00 End game speakers!

I would agree with this review description if I didn't know better.

Sonus Faber Olympica Nova V:

  • Sound Signature: Known for its warm, rich, and romantic sound. Features lush mids, smooth treble, and a slightly rolled-off bass that emphasizes musicality over absolute accuracy. Imaging is focused and intimate, creating a cozy and enveloping soundstage.
  • Strengths: Ideal for those who prefer a warm and inviting listening experience. Works well with vocals, classical music, and opera.
  • Weaknesses: Bass can be loose or boomy in some rooms. May not have the same level of detail retrieval or dynamics as the other options. Imaging might be too intimate for some listeners.

When paired with different equipment the bass and warmth improves dramatically as well as other aspects.  We use 40WPC pure Class A mono blocks and 6SN7 tube preamp with fantastic results.  Better than what we could imagine.

This goes to show that equipment can take your current speakers to an entire different level.

Happy Listening.

 

In my view, good feedback on the differences has already been accurately offered. I went through a very similar evaluation and almost identical speakers, 2 years ago. Price mattered, size mattered, sound mattered. I ended with a used set of Revel Studio 2’s, and a new pair Rythmik F12SE subwoofers. Love the combination! I enjoy the sound I experience. I like the detail. Most of my music listening is jazz, classical, and acoustic. Odyssey Kismet amp, Hegel preamp, 14x16 room with 10’ ceilings. All in less than $10k