Advice on near-field speakers (eg, Raidho X-1)


I recently started a thread asking whether a stand-mount speaker could reward critical listening, and enough people were encouraging that I'm moving forward. Given how difficult it is to audition speakers these days, I'd appreciate some advice on which speakers might work well for me. 

I have a small, 10x12 room that I can use as a dedicated listening room. My budget for the speakers is 10k, though I'd prefer less, and I'll be buying a new amp and probably subs to fill out the sound. Like Lou Reed, I have a rock and roll heart, but for this room I'm primarily interested in chamber music, symphonic music, solo piano, and (instrumental) jazz.

It's easier for me to say what I don't want: I don't want a "fun," "exciting," "surprising" small speaker that "punches above its weight" (I want an excellent speaker regardless of size). I'm not drawn to a sound that is lean, punchy, forward, or aggressive, and I'm wary of speakers that (over)emphasize resolution. I don't want a cute toy for rich people (which is how Wilson advertises its TuneTots, though it may be a great speaker). I don't like an overly bright, fatiguing upper end. 

I've lived with Maggies for years and I love that relaxed, open, airy sound that doesn't call attention to itself. I appreciate a natural timbre, open soundstage, and "musical" imaging. A warm sound is better than a cool one. I'd like a speaker that can do strings justice at low-to-medium volume. (Yes, I know I'm asking about small speakers here.)

I've read some intriguing things about the Raidho X-1 and XT-1. They'd likely need subs but they're designed for small rooms and get some very positive reviews. I can't tell, though, whether they have the kind of sound I'm describing. I'd appreciate thoughts from anyone who knows them.

Here are some of the other speakers I've been reading about, eliminating speakers that I have no chance of hearing (Wilson-Benesch, Reference 3A, TAD ME-1). 

Boenicke W5
Harbeth (P3ESR or 30.?; I'm a bit flummoxed by the new line)
JA Pulsars
Dutch and Dutch 8C
Focal Sopra or Diablo ($$)
Magico A1
KEF Reference1
Boressen Z1 ($$)
Spendor

I'd love to take any of these off my list if folks think they're not what I'm after in terms of sound or room. I've heard the Harbeths and can do a home trial of them; I've enjoyed hearing the Pulsars but they're rear ported and may need more space from the front wall than I have. And some of these seem a bit physically big to me but maybe that doesn't matter.

Once again, thank you! I really appreciate the knowledge and wisdom out here.



northman

Showing 3 responses by mijostyn

Northman, I think the Raidho X1 is a great choice but you really need to listen to them first. If you are expecting anything like Maggies forget it.
There are dipole air motion transformers. Mudorf makes one. Using this in a D' Appolito configuration with two good 6 or 7 inch woofers in an open baffle design is an intriguing idea. 
Anyway, fine the nearest Raidho dealer to you that displays the X1 and buy it from them for doing so! You might have to take a trip but you are spending big money so it is worth it.
One comment. There is no such thing as “too fast” for a subwoofer. You could say a Dome tweeter is too fast for a sub but nobody goes direct From a tweeter to a sub. A driver’s speed is indicated by its frequency response. It’s transient response is a matter of motor design and the enclosure. I pair 12” subwoofers to full ranges ESLs just fine. 
Air motion transformers can be very aggressive. You will just have to listen. If you want anything close to realistic sound then absolutely, subwoofers are a must. You'll need at least two. If you are not digital phobic get a DEQX Premate. It will give you the ability to tune your system to do anything you want and it has digital bass management included. With the DEQX functioning as a two way crossover unloading the Raidho's from having to deal with the very low bass the system will become more effortless and you will add an easy 6 dB of headroom.
JL Audio makes the best subs. Two 10 inch units should do the job but nothing says you can't get 12's:)