Tannoy D700, 500 How do they sound?


I'm using two mono tube amps, 35-40 watts, trioded 6550Cs each, and wondering about suitable speakers, $2-4k, that are smooth, fun, dynamic, deep tight bass, for classical & jazz. Anyone heard the Tannoys? I've enjoyed Paradigm 100, Nova Applause, VMPS RM1. -Thanks!
boscode
I think you would find either very satisfying. But I'm prejudiced: I've been listening since the early Seventies and haven't found anything for the money or anywhere near the money that beats Tannoy Dual Concentrics. You might also want to consider Tannoy System 15 DMT II (from their professional monitor line, not sold in hi-fi shops). They retail for over $5K, but I've seen NIB ones on eBay going for less than half that. And of course there's nothing wrong with a pair of older Alnico Monitor Golds if you can be certain of their condition (Tannoys are $$$$ to recone!).Regards. Joel Tatelman.
I'm listening to D-500s right now. They're new, and need break-in time, so they're a bit raw; but they bode very well. Tremendous ease in the bass -- very, very relaxed there; they're just still a little harsh in the mids and edgy in the highs. The jury's still out, since I'm still fiddling with the right interconnects, room acoustics, positioning, etc., but they impressed me enough at the shop to buy a pair, and once I get them tweaked out, I'm pretty sure I'll come to love them. I catch myself, when I'm not being too critical since they're so new, smiling. They make a lot of noise for a little power, so if you don't have a big room, I'd go with the 500s. I was thinking about 700s, but I'm pretty sure they'd have punched holes in the walls, judging from the efficiency of the 500s. Jeff
I have only heard the D700 at a dealers and so will not comment directly on the sound. However, the reputation of these speakers is that, despite their efficiency, they present a reasonably difficult load and need lots of current to control those big cones. Some say SS amps, or very good and powerful tubes. This might end up being a problem for you with only 40W of tube power. Otherwise my brief listen suggests they might fit with your desire for "smooth, fun, dynamic, deep tight bass".