Mini Monitors: Sonus Faber Cremona or Micro Utopia


I currently have Reference 3A Dulcet mini monitors and I'm looking to upgrade. I like the Dulcets a lot (I've also had the DeCapos and Royal Masters), but they sound a little thin to me. I'd like a little more bass and fullness without sacrificing detail and wonderful highs. Does anyone have a sense of how the Sonus Faber Cremona M's or JM Labs (original, not with the BE tweeter) compare to one another or to the Dulcets? I've been thinking about those two seriously. I'd like to hear them, but I don't have a lot of opportunities where I live.

I have a small listening room, about 8 x 10, and listen to LPs exclusively (VPI Aries original turntable). I have different amps available, from 30w solid state (Nelson Pass) to 100w solid state (Rowland) to an integrated tube amp (15w, E.A.R.). I listen to lots of different kinds of music, including soul, reggae, classic rock, jazz, funk, indie rock, rap, ska, etc.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions. And I know it all depends on your own ears, the other gear in the system, etc., but I'd like to hear some opinions nevertheless. I know no one has the definitive answer. Also, if there are other mini monitors that you think should be on my short list, do let me know.

Thanks!
128x128klein_rogge

Showing 1 response by mechans

If you really want fullness and warmth I don't think you will find an over abundance of it from the Utopias. I own JM Focal Electras (yes very different cabinets and crossovers) and it took a long time and many iterations of my system to get them to sound great. You have an impressive array of amps but a higher power tube amp and a warmish tube pre are what it took in my experience.
I think you'll find what your after more directly with the Soinus Faber. Just my 2 cents.