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Opinions regarding JMlab Alto Be?

OK, it's decision time soon ... narrowed down speaker list to: JMlab Alto Be, Dynaudio Confidence C2, Wilson Audio Sophia (also considering Focus Audio FS-888, Living Voice Avatar OBX or regular Avatar, Dali Euphonia MS4). I listen to primarily alternative rock/indie rock e.g. Radiohead, MUSE, REM, Beck, PJ Harvey, Wilco, Ryan Adams, Strokes, White Stripes, U2, Lucinda Williams, Interpol, Modest Mouse, Shins etc etc

The electronics (not purchased yet) will likely include Simaudio P-5/W-5 preamp/amp and Simaudio Nova CD player, but I am also considering new Hovland HP200 preamp instead.

I have listened to the JMlab Alto Be repeatedly and to my untrained ears I have been impressed with it's overall musicality, imaging, transparency, driver integration, and reasonably good bass. However, the price is troubling ! Yet, many people feel that Focal speakers are continually troubled by poor bracing/damping and resultant cabinent resonance. Yet, I question whether this is still as much a problem with the new Be series.

Because of its price I was hoping I could happily live with one of the cheaper speakers on my short list.

As I wrestle with my final decision, I would greatly appreciate anyones subjective opinion of the JMlab Alto Be (trying to disregard price in your assessment).
thom_y
jtinn
1,124 posts
 
The JM Lab Alto is a very good speaker. It's strength is it's musicality and high end air. The weakness is the low end extension.

None of the other speakers seem to do more for me than the JM Lab, but another speaker you should look at is the Von Schweikert VR-4SR or VR-5SE. They excels with all music, especially stong in the lower frequencies with terrific clarity and cohesiveness.
marty9876
120 posts
 
I have very similar front end gear. I really, really want a set of JM Labs's but just can't get over the cost....I'd want 5 of course (HT setup also, the center is way spendy).

They sound great, but I know with enough time spent looking something close can be had for far less.

Sorry about not disreagarding price here, for me it's the only thing holding be back from this line.

Marty
warrenh's avatar
warrenh
2,299 posts
 
it's very hard to ignore the price. I liked the Altos a lot. They didn't blow me out of the water. Maybe if they had more bass extension? For $17k, I want bass without a sub. I think they are overpriced, like all of their Utopia line. Also, their tweeter (upper end) is great, but it's not the best out their. They'll have you believe that. They are excellent marketers of their products. The audiophooishly naive will believe that berrylium is the only way to go. It's toxic to work with, and that makes it expensive. Don't get me wrong, I loved the Altos. I want more than love for $17k. Man, if I had the room (lots of room) and the money for the necessary quality (huge wattage) power, I'd go for the big Maggies in a jiff. You'd save $5k. peace, warren
ramy
141 posts
 
I have been listening to the JM Utopia for the last three years.I have not had any of the problems you mentioned.The key to the Utopia good sound is the right amplifier.I have settled on the Gryphon Antileon Signature the Boulder amp is a good match as well.You can buy on audiogon the JM Utopias for a fraction of the original price,and there are currently some big Gryphons on sale.
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