Upgrading from Martin Logan SL3s

I have not replaced the panels though I have washed them. I have pretty much replaced everything else in my system since I purchased the SL3s. So I am wondering if I should consider upgrading my speakers also. I agree that the SL3s are one of Martin Logan's best and I am not unhappy with sound. But I would like to see how they compare to some current offerings.

Larryken, Have you heard the VR-4SR MK3 and if so how do you think they compare to the DB-99? I can find very little on the DB-99s other that one review. One the other hand the VR-4SR MK3s are current and maybe I can find a local dealer for an audition. I have read a couple of reviews on the VR-4SR and they sound interesting.

Thanks to everyone that replied.

Martinmobile, I really like what ARC has done with the 6H30 tube. I heard the Ref 110 and knew that was the amp for me. I had both an ARC V70 and VT100 MK3 but the Ref 110 was just better in every way. In the past few years I have sold all my extra gear and really upgraded my system. The SL3s are really the only thing left from my old system. I believe my Audio Research dealer also carries Usher speakers so I will definitely give them a listen. The MBL speakers are just gorgeous but way out of my price range even used.


Larryken, I like the idea of a ribbon tweeter. I owned Apogee Slant 6's for a while. I found a couple of reviews on the web and the recommended power for the VR 4SR is between 50 an 300 watts. That should not be a problem for the Ref 110. I sent their distributor an email to see if their is a dealer near me.

Steelhead, The Sl3s are about the perfect size for my room. I have thought about getting a newer Martin Logan speaker of similar size. I have now also thought about replacing the panels of My SL3s. But I was also looking for suggestions on other speakers to audition. So far I have borrowed a couple of dealer demo's and not found anything that I thought was worth upgrading too.

Coltrane1, I know what you mean about finding it hard to go from an electrostat to a regular box type speaker. Before the SL3s I owned both Apogee and Soundlab speakers. I have so far not really found any 3 way box speaker that I could live with long term. Maybe just rebuilding the SL3s is the way to go. I have also thought about upgrading to a newer pair of Martin Logan's. The problem with that though is that I really don't like the way the newer ones look. So maybe it is a fools errand. I should just redo the SL3s and maybe look into getting a sub.