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Silverline?Thiels? Audio Physic?: Need guidance

After deciding to look for something better than Thiels Audio Physic, I have been on the verge of purchasing a pair of Silverline Sonatina II, but read that they really sound better with a tube amp. I have a high current SS Aragon amp which is 200RMS. Also, I am confused if this is the best choice of speakers because there seems to be many Silverlines on resale. Yes, their cabinet wood is beautiful, but I don't want a speaker that is going to sound either bright, uneven, dull, or boomy because it is more compatible with some esoteric tube flea power amp. I can't afford to go out and buy $3000-5000 in monoblock tube amps or even a single tube amp of 100 RMS. So, owners or former owners of Silverline Sonata II or Sonatina II, I need your advice. Also, one final question, how does the Sonatina II compare to either the Audio Physic Virgo II, and/or Thiel 2.3 both which I heard and like for different reasons; I was hoping from what I read on the web that the Silverlines are better and offer more detailed and musical sound. Thank you all, SJ
sunnyjim

Showing 1 response by mwalsdor

mwalsdor
94 posts
 
I've owned the original Sonatinas since January '00. I've used them with three tube amps with very good effect. I've heard the "tube preferred" line but can't comment on what they sound like with SS. They are a very detailed speaker but I wouldn't call them bright. Thiels are bright, or just too damn analytical.

I'm also considering selling my Sonatinas, not because I'm unhappy with them, more because I want to explore other speaker types AND find a more suitable mate for my 3.5wpc SET amp. The Sonatinas are remarkable capable performers with the Moth amp but I can't help feeling what it could do with something more efficient.
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