Tannoy vs. ATC


I'm looking at ATC SCM40 vs. Tannoy Kensington. Two very different speakers, I know. No.1, I need a speaker that can be placed close to the wall (less than 3 feet). I think both apply there (I didn't say it was ideal). Among other things, I like the Tannoy because I have a 40 w/ch tube amp, and the Tannoy is more "child friendly" (as far as tipping over and access to delicate drivers). The amps also have sentimental value and I would like to use them. If I buy the ATC I have to get other amplification, which I am willing to do because I love what they do (leave the child friendly part to me on this one...!). So, with the 40w/ch tube amp and the Tannoy (which may still require more power), or the ATC with 'competent' SS amplification (TBD), any recommendations on the two? Amps are vintage (and fully functional/restored) McIntosh, currently running Klipsch Chorus speakers (my temporary compromise to allow for Children...hard to push over or destroy!..which actually sound pretty good by the way, just not much in the way of imaging or accurate bass). I have NEVER heard Tannoy Prestige series, but I am going out on a limb based on all the web and print-based anecdotal evidence. Third choice - hold out for Canterbury? Also a factor in the decision, eventually I will be able to use more of the room for placement. My room is 20 x 13 feet. As far as preferences, I like heavy classical music, as well as softer music - classical guitar, choral, etc. (and listenability at low volume is important too). I have found that I do prefer accurate loudspeakers in general, and accurate bass is very important to me (organ music is a staple). I am willing to use a subwoofer. I'm hoping someone might have experience with a lot of this gear. Thanks. 
jimmy2615

Showing 1 response by islandmandan

Jimmy, I've enjoyed reading your experiences with the Turnberrys. I thought I'd add my two cents, as I've been using a pair of custom 12" HPD (ca 1975 Dual Concentrics), that have custom crossovers and have been converted to hard edge surrounds, as per the current Prestige drivers are.

I have driven them with a multitude of different amps, and my current favorites are a 500 Wpc class d amp, and a 9 Wpc SET 300B that the Tannoys sound delicious with. With either amp, the sound is very enjoyable, the class d delivers better bass, which you would expect given the disparity in power available. The SET is actually quite good at delivering excellent bass, as it has massive power supplies.

Having two such disparate amp topologies to choose from is something I enjoy being able to do, and I don't doubt that I will live happily this way for the unforseeable future.

Good luck to you, I don't think you can go wrong with the direction you are heading.

Regards,
Dan