Best analytical loudspeakers for strings (midrange)?


Folks-

I am interested in comparing Wilson Yvettes (can obtain a discounted price, and which I have used in my house) versus Paradigm Persona 3F or 5F passive loudspeakers.

My system now combines McIntosh preamplifier, hybrid amplifier, PS Audio DirectStrem DAC, and transport, TIDAL server. My listening room is 300 square ft and has been optimized sound insulation (absorption and reflection tested using an audio engineer).

Although I love rock, electronica, jazz, and classical music, I want to be able to have high-resolution separation of different strings (violin, viola, cello, bass) in orchestral music, or even as solo instruments. I am a scientist, and I want to listen to high resolution ("clinical") sound.

Any advice? I have Wilson WattPuppy 7's and love the resolution, but I want to upgrade these speakers. I know that Vandersteen, Magico, etcetera are all great speakers as are many other brands, but I have limited my options at this point in time. 

Are the Paradigm Persona loudspeakers a better alternative to the Wilson Yvettes for string resolution?

Thanks in advance for any advice. - Gerry


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Showing 2 responses by willemj

Harbeth M30.1? See here: http://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/harbeth-monitor-301-loudspeaker/
Your room is not that large, but maybe the Harbeth SHL5+ is also feasible, for a bigger sound and more bass extension. Alternatively, you could combine the M30.1 with dual smallish subwoofers (plus Antimode 8033 room eq), or even the Audiokinesis Swarm system, again with the Antimode (but visually the Swarm might be too overwhelming): http://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/audiokinesis-swarm-subwoofer-system/
How much power does the power amp provide (good speakers usually like a lot)?
Indeed. I have the 2805 (plus sub&Antimode 8033) and they are the most revealing, natural and disappearing (apart from their bulk...) speakers that I have ever heard (I have had Quad stats for more than 40 years). Their biggest limitations are low end extension (hence the sub) and loudness level (not an issue in a smaller room). If you have room for them, the bigger 2905 series addresses both extension and loudness to some extent, but they are even bulkier, and they need a bit more space behind them.