Thiel 3.6 vs. Dunlavy SC-IV/A


Hi,

I currently own a pair of Thiel 3.6s in my system and like them a lot (their accuracy, imaging, soundstage, neutrality).

However, I have an opportunity to get a pair of Dunlavy SC-IVAs at a great price and wondered if fellow Audiogon members thought I should go for it and make the switch, or stick with the Thiels and save my money (not to mention my back as those Dunlavys are close to 200 lbs each). I haven't had a chance to hear the Dunlavys yet, but have read very positive reviews of them. Wondered if any Dunlavy owners could comment.

From some initial reads, I think the Dunlavys and the Thiels have similar sonic signatures and also require solid matching components. I currently have a Pass X-350 amp in my system so I don't think I have a problem there. Some posters complained of a brightness to the Dunlavys, which is often a complaint about the Thiels. Other posters noted that a solid matching amp will cure any brightness problem.

As I mentioned, I prefer a very accurate, neutral sound. No colorations in the music, and from what I've read the Dunlavys are supposed to do it as well as anyone.

My current system:

Linn Ikemi CD
Adcom GFP-750 preamp
Pass Labs X-350 amp
Thiel 3.6 speakers
justin2468

Showing 2 responses by pepperdog

Keep the 3.6's and upgrade your pre-amp, cd player, and possibly your cables. Also look into adding Sound Anchor stands. They make an amazing difference in bass response and mid-range smoothness on all Thiels. I recommend upper level Tara Labs cables to get the most out of your system. Upgrading your cd player, pre-amp, and cables will always pay dividends no matter what you decide to do later on. Remember that the biggest and most effective changes in your system have to occur closest to the source. You cannot improve a signal down-stream if it is not of satisfactory quality up-stream.
Spend your money on a better cd player and pre-amp before ditching the Thiels. You will be very pleasantly rewarded. Please understand, I am not dissing the Linn or the Adcom, I just think that in your system they are the weak links. I know they are very highly rated by some magazines, but there are better choices if system synergy is to be achieved. The Dunlavys are very nice but they need far more room size and exacting placement criteria than do the Thiels. And, after replacing the Thiels with the Dunlavys or anything else for that matter, guess what?....you will still have those up-stream components that will still be the problem.
I have owned most Thiel models including the 6's, 3.6's, 2.3's, 2 2's, 1.2's, and 1.5's, ..... and I have heard most of the Dunlavys, including the 6's, the 5's, and the 4a's. and they are all very very good...... but I fear you will not resolve whatever system issues you are seeking to ameliorate until you deal with the front end, pre-amp and cables.
For the record, Thiels are not inherently bright, they are simply very accurately reproducing a second rate component somewhere in the audio stream. In your case if you are sensing brightness or forwardness, I would wager it is the Linn with the Adcom.
I have had a Linn Karik / Numerik combo, and an Ikemi in my system(s) with several pairs of Thiels and I found that neither of the Linns were satisfactory...too cold and dreary sounding. Try a Levinson, or better yet, a Proceed CDP and a good tube pre-amp (or Pass pre-amp), and you will experience smooth, seamless, detailed......MUSIC.
Speakers only reproduce the faults that begin up-stream with the source and the first stage of processing; the pre-amp. Best of luck.
Yes, the model 39 cd player from Levinson is the one I was referring to.... or better yet (money wise) the Proceed cdp which is based on the No.39 (transport etc). Also if you want to shock yourself try the model 500 special edition Cambridge cd player with Walker valid points and tuning discs......staggering sounds for the money. I am using the Cambridge cd player with a Red Rose Model 5 integrated amp on my Thiel CS 2.3's with all Tara Labs air 1 cables and all I can say is wow!!! This cd player is under $500, and it reminds me very favorably of my Proceed CDP and Levinson No.39. By the way the Red Rose Model 5 is up for sale on Audiogon, if interested. Thanks,, Geo