Dynaudio, Devore Orangutan, or Harbeth


I have found it difficult to step up to the plate and make a decision on a new (and probably my last) system -- in large part this is because, as most of you know, no dealer carries all the components of choice. Accordingly your advice is appreciated.
I listen mainly to jazz, vocals, Brasilian, R&B, classic rock and world music. My room is 12' by 20' with an 81/2 ceiling. I will be seated about 10 feet from the speakers.
I am most interested in the Confidence C1 speakers, Harbeth P3 (with a Rel Sub), Compact 7 or M 30.1 or the Devore Orangutan 93 (newer smaller version). I had been thinking Naim 202/200 combo. But now I am thinking more of the Luxman integrated (more liquid and with tone control and phono amp) 505ux or 550 with the Devore and with a Luxman CD player - I have a very large cd collectin. Should I go with the CD player or a Luxman Dac and use an Oppo as the transport which will give me better sound?
Your thoughts are appreciated.
handsomeck

Showing 3 responses by mcslipp

Yes, the appeal for me is the beauty/warmth as you say. I was rock'n out to some Jackson 5 last night and wasn't missing a thing. Not sure if that helps at all, but...
Dynaudio, while great speakers lean towards a more analytical sound to my ears. If you're using words like "liquid" & "tone" I think Harbeth and Devore may better tick that box. I traded away my C1's (along with all of my solid state gear) as I found myself listening to my equipment instead of the music. I now run Devore O/96's with a Luxman DA-06 into Shindo Pre & amp and couldn't be happier. But as always go listen as YMMV.
I didn't look at Harbeth only because they aren't quite sensitive enough to be driven by my low watt tube amp, though I've seen it done. (I am considering a smaller pair for my office setup.) The O/93's share the same tweeters and a very similar woofer as the O/96 and will be more alike than different. I've certainly fallen for that vintage Japanese tube sound of Shindo, Kondo, etc.. I'd put Luxman in that same camp. Heck they've been at it a good deal longer at 90+ years. As to the CD vs. DAC I'd wager it's a toss up though I might give a slight node to the CD as it shares the same "guts" and you don't need extra cables, cords and space.