Speakers for Rock


I'm looking to buy the system of my dreams. I listen to mainly rock music - everything from 50s, classic rock like Led Zepplin to new stuff like Blink 182. I listen to country, jazz, classical here & there.

My question is - what brands of speakers are best for rock music?

I've been looking at B&W CDM9's pretty seriously, as well as Thiel or maybe the 804s used. But I often hear comments regarding the B&Ws that they aren't the best for rock. I'm not sure where to start on this search - there are so many brands and most shops only sell a few so I'm looking for some pointers......

(As for components, I've been thinking of Rotel separates or a B&K 805.)

Thanks for the help!
dagny

Showing 1 response by dr_joe

They're not "audiophile" speakers, and have low significant other acceptance factor, but I can't see doing much better than the larger Tannoy Professional studio monitors: System 15 DMT and 215 DMT (original or MK II).

The MK IIs are still in production, so you can get the relevant stats at: www.tannoy.com (98-101 dB, high power handling, fabulous dynamics, excellent detail and imaging). Work well with low powered valve amps as well as high-powered solid state (I use the latter).

Circa $2K+ used. Rather more for the 215s (though sometimes studios sell 'em cheap).

The adventurous and/or skilful can easily find a used pair of Tannoy 3836s, download the cabinet and crossover plans from the net and come up with a very reasonable facsimile of the System 15.

3836s go for circa $400/pr. Sometimes, though, you find a history of a hard working life as a PA driver means the HF unit needs replacing.

The stacked Klipsch is a good idea, too!

Happy listening.

Joel.