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Three best speakers for my budget.

I've been looking to buy a used pair of speakers to replace Matrix 802 S3 driven by Jeff Rowland Model5 amp. Here is my narrowed down list of speakers which can be had for around $4500-$5000:
1. Sonus Faber Extrema
2. Kharma Ceramique 2.1 or 2.0
3. B&W Nautilus 802

I'm looking for one that has musical detail sound with presence of instrument texture, air and image. Especially the one that presents "REAL" or "Live-like". I usually listen to the acoustic jazz music mainly with acoustic guitar, saxophone, and percussion.

I had a chance to listen to Sonus Faber Extrema which is pretty much what I want but also curious if Kharma 2.x or Nautilus 802 would perform better. Any suggestions or comments would be appreciated.
supakit
4 responses Add your response
barrelchief
294 posts
 
For that price range, I feel there is a HUGE value in the Meadowlark Audio Heron-i, Full range speaker...very natural, quick, accurate and open.

I was considering B&W Nautilus until I heard the Meadowlarks...they added "realism" that the B&W's lacked.

If you actually go out and demo a pair and are interested in a used pair let me know...I am waiting for a reason to sell mine and move up to the next model "Blue Heron."

These speakers work great with both tube and SS amplification. ck out www.meadowlarkaudio.com.

Good luck!
blbloom
286 posts
 
Well, I am going to recommend the Meadowlark Heron i also. I am driving mine with a Rowland Concenta II. It is a great match, detailed, musical, transparent, never in your face, but the dynamics are there. I think the Herons do everything well. Great with your choices of music, and they can rock also. I am not selling mine, but I can give you the name of the dealer where I bought them.
lev335
220 posts
 
Well I would like to add that the new Martin Logan line sounds better then they ever have I use a pair of Ascents and they Are powered by A Mark Levinson 335 And I use A Mark Levinson 39 cdplayer. And the sound is stunning. But my favorite speaker is the REVELS man what a sound you should try and pick up a pair of Studios for a round 5,800 used good luck
dds_hifi
26 posts
 
Supakit, have you considered the Red Rose R2's (or maybe it's just 2's)? They are less expensive than your target ($3,500), but they are very life-like without being as bright as the B&W's. Also, you might want to consider the Harbeth Monitor 40's. I have the 7E's (similar, but not as deep and strong) and they are terrific with live Jazz - very accurate.
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