Magico A5 or Sonus faber SERAFINO TRADITION or Harbeth 40.3 XD


Looking at upgrading my speakers and I have no in home demo options.

I am looking at spending up to 25K.

Magico, Sonus faber, Harbeth are in the running.

I listen to  beatles, Dead, CSNY, Eagles.

I have a Mcintosh MC462, MC22 and a just ordered Berkeley Alpha Dac 3.  

I was leaning toward the Harbeth or SF but just read a great review on the MAgico A5.

Still working on buying a streamer to feed the system.

Looking for some thoughts.

Thanks

Ag insider logo xs@2xefoo

McIntosh and Sonus Faber go well together. I have the Olympica 3 with a MC452 and very satisfied. 

There is quite a difference in the character of the sound between these brands. Sonus tends to be the most accurate with respect to timbre especially of orchestral instruments.   At least for the sonus the amp makes a significant difference (mac amps tend to be very warm with less detail or articulation when used with the sonus). If possible, audition with at least the same brand of amp as you have.

Harbeth and Mac could be a dull combo, due to both being on the warm side. Harbeth crossovers, while well designed, use a lot of inferior parts that can limit resolution.

Magico M5 were used in one of the finest systems I’ve ever heard.

All I know about Sonus Faber is that they’re beautiful and typically well regarded.

 

 

 

 

Consider Wilson Sabrina 2 ,  Used Rockport, YG Acoustics all are excellent .

Sabrina new $20 k , the YG,and Rockport get a $50 k speaker for in your price range   Don't overlook big monitors like Marten,or MBL outstanding 

just buy a pair of Svs 3000 subs full range and outstanding plenty of options .