Paradigm 90P monitor sounds good on music and movie. It can go down to 24 hz with ease.
Best Full Range Speaker, 750- 1k
I am in the process of rebuilding my system, and wanted to tap the Audiogon community's opinions on the best full range speaker in the $750-$1,000 used price range. Right now, the front-runner on my list is the Meadowlark Kestrel Hot Rod. Other speakers I've heard good things about are the Thiel 1.5, PSB Stratus series, and Vandersteen's.
The associated equipment will be a Belles 150A Hot Rod amp, a Rogue 66 pre, and a Sony DV-9000ES CD/SACD/DVD player. I value musicality and an engaging sound above clinical detail, precision and transparency. I listen primarily to classical (chamber and symphonic, some choral), small scale jazz, and female vocals.
I'd appreciate all your comments on the Meadowlark's, how they compare to some of the other speakers I've mentioned, as well as any other recommendations in this price range. Thanks in advance!
Eric
The associated equipment will be a Belles 150A Hot Rod amp, a Rogue 66 pre, and a Sony DV-9000ES CD/SACD/DVD player. I value musicality and an engaging sound above clinical detail, precision and transparency. I listen primarily to classical (chamber and symphonic, some choral), small scale jazz, and female vocals.
I'd appreciate all your comments on the Meadowlark's, how they compare to some of the other speakers I've mentioned, as well as any other recommendations in this price range. Thanks in advance!
Eric
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Flying, while I agree the Vandersteens would be more on the forgiving side of things, I disagree that they have more bass extension than Thiel 3.5's. Eric, the Meadowlark and Thiels (and others including the recommended Vandersteens) share some similar design principles differing mostly in cabinet design/bass out-put. Finding a general consensus may be quite challenging You'll have to decide for yourself which you prefer. Now that you have clarified full range to mean floor standing, there are many other quality options. |
Thanks for all the suggestions, folks. Unsound, you are correct, I should probably have used the term "floorstander" instead of "full range." I have never actually heard the Thiel's, but am seriously considering doing some auditioning now. Is the general consensus that they outperform the Meadowlark's? Although I was originally hoping to stay away from monitors, I'm also really intrigued by the Green Mountain suggestion. Anyone actually heard these or compared them to any other speakers? Keep the suggestions coming! And thanks again! -Eric |
I fully agree with Unsound's opinion. I am currently using a pair of Thiel 3.5s with all McIntosh electronics and find the sound is just wonderful. The 3.5s do not have the deepest bass extension, but do just about everything else very, very well. In a small to mid-size room you will have to look at speakers well into the $1500-$2000 range to get better sound. The Thiel 3.5s periodically come up for sale on the used market for $900-$1000 every few months. Be picky about condition - make sure the Thiel equalizer is in good operating condition; and check the condition of the cabinets vary carefully. The 3.5s have a true furniture grade finish; and if well cared for should look like new or only have a few minor scratches. Also, if your go with Thiel 3.5s make sure you are using decent quality interconnects and speaker cables. The Thiels are very revealing of low quality sources and/or cables. |
The new Green Mountain Europa two way has fantastic sound and at only $ 780.00 is a great bargain. Go to [email protected] for pictures and specs. Don Kenney HI END AUDIO Edina, Mn 952-929-1479 |
Hi Eric. When you mention you value musicality and engaging sound, Spendor 3/1, 2/3 and Harbeth HL-P3ES2 comes to mind. The Harbeth's are the finest mini-monitors that I've heard. Later add a sub if more bass is needed. Glorious sounding speaker with beautiful wood veneers. First-rate, world class quality without a doubt. Good Luck in your quest. Bill |