PSB or stick with vintage ADS


I currently have a vintage pair of great sounding (to me) ADS L470s. ADS has long been my favorite speaker (since the 80s) and I've simply never wanted to replace them. I briefly owned a larger floor-standing model and a smaller bookshelf as well. So 3 different pairs of ADS.

However, now I'm considering an in-house audition to compare some PSB Alpha B1s. I may also consider the in-wall PSB CW26s. This is simply due to space considerations - I just don't have a good location now for my speakers.

Now, clearly I'm not in the high-end audiophile range. I realize that. I'm unavoidably stuck in entry level, unfortunately. But has anyone who might be able to comment on both pairs of speakers have an opinion on whether the PSBs would be a suitable replacement for a loooong time ADS lover? I don't really want to bother bringing them home if they simply aren't at least as good. Both pair receive great respect in comments, but I never see them compared due to the fact the ADS are long gone as a company. Any mention of how good the ADS are is in the context of someone obtaining them for cheap through some acquisition. Ha.

I have read that speaker tech has come a long way over the years.

Thanks.
crboone

Showing 2 responses by lowrider57

Since you are lucky enough to have a local audio shop, you should be auditioning speakers. If the store carries the PSB speaker line, I suggest comparing the Alpha B1 to a PSB- Image B5 Bookshelf Speaker which is a step up, and has that warm and open PSB sound.
I will also add the Tekton Mini Lore as a highly regarded, "bang for the buck" speaker.
If the dealer carries Totem, check out the Mites and the Dreamcatcher bookshelf speakers. Terrific imaging and bass from such small speakers.