GMA callisto vs vmps rm 30

Do you currently own a pair of Callistos?

Assuming you own the Callistos, are you running a pair of powered subs?

Are what are the rest of the components in your system?

After owning a pair of Callistos, I would not buy another pair of speakers without directly comparing my Callistos (and stands) to their possible replacements. Well, I may move up the GMA line without directly comparing, but not to another speaker line.

The rest of your system seems solid. However, I still stand by my statement that I would not buy another pair of speakers without directly comparing my Callistos (and stands) to their possible replacements. I was cranking "The Black Parade" last night and absolutely lovin' it.

I was chatting with a friend about this...he brought up a couple of things - perhaps either your preamp (or the tubes in it) is lame-sounding and/or your amplifier has no 'guts' into these 4-to-5 Ohm speakers. While I personally think your McCormack would be fine, I definately agree with evaluating your pre-amp.

Also, do you have the Callistos pulled out from the wall behind? If not, the loud voice-range reflections from that wall makes the speakers sound mid- and upper-bass deficient, something which the subwoofer cannot help. A TV screen or a rack of stereo gear placed right between the speakers has the same effect.

Also, did you purchase your Callisto's new (and register your speakers)? If so, make sure you receive your Happy Ears System Test CD from Roy. It's nearly 80 minutes of music to help you maximize the setup / configuration of your system.

Again, I do think your McCormack amp is more than adequate, but my friend's experiences with your preamp were never overwhelmingly positive. Hard rock / metal and dynamic usually do not go hand-in-hand (sounds strange, I know). Look at (listen to) the latest Metallica release as a *great* example. It's loud, but there are no dynamics. Throw in some Dead Can Dance or Sisters of Mercy "Floodland" (or one of my personal favorites for evaluation - Tool's "Lateralus") and evaluate.