Alternatives to Revel Studios?


I'm currently getting back into audio after a few years away from the hobby, and I'm trying to get a new system put together within the next few months. My previous system was a Sony SCD-777ES into a Krell KAV-250p, with a Music Reference RM-9 amp, and Revel Studios for the speakers. I found the setup exceptionally enjoyable, though I do feel the speakers could have really taken advantage of better electronics. Unfortunately, I moved to a condo with no usable listening room, and sold the speakers.

As good as the Revels were, I can't help but wonder if I could do better this time around. I really don't want to get stuck playing the audiophile upgrade game, so I'm trying to explore all of my options before I buy anything. My current amps are Lamm M2.1s, and my source will most likely be an Audio Aero Capitole MKII running direct to the amps. My musical tastes are quite eclectic, though mostly electronic music, and classic through modern rock. I do listen to a bit of classical and jazz as well, but it isn't my main focus. Because of the music I listen to, solid bass extension and good dynamics are critical to my enjoyment, and a speaker with any tendencies towards harshenss wouldn't go well with my many questionably recorded discs.

My comfort level for speakers is in the $7k-$8k range, new or used, though for a truly mind blowing speaker I might be willing to spend up to double that. So far nothing I've heard under $50k is as enjoyable to me as the Revels have been. I've heard them in half a dozen systems, and have loved them every time. Is there any other speaker I should really look for, or am I on the right track buying another pair of Studios?
steve01s4

Showing 1 response by rbirke

just my opinion, but i found the revels not quite on a par with the lower priced aerial 9. my system now is a pair of rowland 201's, an aesthetix calypso, a tom evans groove, all kubala emotion cables, a fully decked out linn lp12 and a modwright sony 777 -- and shunyata power conditioning. so you can see that i'm a bit fussy about my equipment. and i listen to everything.

i found the revels a little hot on the top end and the aerials are a little bit sweeter without losing detail. otherwise, the philosophy is the same -- lots of small woofers and high quality mid and tweet in an awesome cabinet.

and i don't know if aesthetics matter, but the aerial in rosewood is beautiful

good luck

rich