I owned the Hawks for many years and experienced some transporting and sublime moments listening to music through them. You are correct, however, that the Cairn probably won't cut it. They really only came alive for me when I was driving them with at least 100+ WPC of solid state power mated to a tubed pre. I used McCormack, Odyssey and Simaudio amps all to good effect.
NOLA, Fritz, or used Totem Hawk - Want Drama
Looking at speakers for an 8' X 14' sun room with a large opening to the living room. Really enjoyed ProAc 2 speakers a while back. I moved to larger speakers, and want to downsize.
Most important aspect of presentation is drama - sitting on the edge of the couch, waiting for the next twist or turn in the singer's voice. Mesmerized by the music NOT minute details.
After doing some looking around, three speakers stood out in my range (1,000-1,500): NOLA Boxer, Fritz 7, and Totem Hawk (not much of a "downsize" here). Probably need a new amp (I do still have a Cairn 30 Watt integrated).
So, if you've had a moving experience with any of these, let me know what amp was being used. If I'm missing any "must" auditions, let me know.
Thanks for looking!
Michael
Most important aspect of presentation is drama - sitting on the edge of the couch, waiting for the next twist or turn in the singer's voice. Mesmerized by the music NOT minute details.
After doing some looking around, three speakers stood out in my range (1,000-1,500): NOLA Boxer, Fritz 7, and Totem Hawk (not much of a "downsize" here). Probably need a new amp (I do still have a Cairn 30 Watt integrated).
So, if you've had a moving experience with any of these, let me know what amp was being used. If I'm missing any "must" auditions, let me know.
Thanks for looking!
Michael