Speakers for Lamm ML2.1


I am pretty close to making a decision on speakers for my Lamm ML2.1. I listen to jazz and classical music mainly. Front end is currently Wadia but will probably switch to EMM set up. I have a Budget of $50,000 for the speakers. I usually prefer to buy new. Room size is currenly 20x21 with 9 ft ceiling, however custom room once the speakers are bought. Wanted to hear from experianced audiophiles on which direction they would go.

comments appreaciated
thx andy
rumney510

Showing 3 responses by owl

High efficiency conventional and vintage horns:

Magico Ultimate
Avantgarde Trio
Edgarhorn
Siemens Klangfilms
Tannoy GRF's

Conventional mid efficiency dynamic speakers:

Kharma Grand Ceramique
Von Schveikert VR6
Wilson Maxx2*

What have you heard with the ML2.1 driving? The ML2.1 with the right speakers (over 100db) will be able to produce mind altering results including startling dynamics and bass, beyond any conventional setups you may have heard. Conventionally, I am currently very happy with the Kharma 3.2 Lamm ML2.1 combination and it is surprisingly satisfying robust and dynamic.

Your current room is almost square so you may have issues with true full range speakers and room modes that may need addressing (ie a new room). If you were stuck in that room (which it sounds you are not) you might want a smaller 2 way with bass supplemented by an adjustable subwoofer that you could back off of excessive low end if you have bass reinforcement issues in the square area (eg kharma 3.2 or midi grand/Kharma sub). Invest the rest of your budget in software.

If you opt for high efficiency be very careful of your cabling and front end as it could make you very unhappy to have the Wadia or other currently "popular" dacs fronting that type of system. A better choice might be the Zanden or Weiss Medea. Cabling I've found to work well with Lamm and horns is Purist Dominus, Siltech Emperor, Kharma, Cardas GR.

In the price range you're looking at speaks to big, full range speakers. Just remember that big speakers have big problems, especially in certain rooms, and to identify what they are within the specific model you're considering and make sure you can live with those particular sets of tradeoffs in order to obtain the big full range sound you seek.

*Caveat: Have not heard this at higher volumes with ML2.1 though at lower to middle volumes they could be quite satisfying if you like the Wilson sound.
Wright

Can you be specific about what you don't like about the Magico's design? It certainly has the ultra high efficiency. Also, to add a speaker I left off the suggested speakers you look at the Zingali may be interesting as well.

Thanx
Rum

Meant to say 9 there is no VS6. Acapellas also are interesting but my guess is they are not efficient enough Romy's comments are very apt when it comes to the ML2 as he has a lot of experience with them. At this level you should hear the combination yourself before making any purchase decisions, to the extent even of shipping out your amps to hear them to hear them at the dealers.