Dahlquist speakers

I have not heard the DQ-12's, only the DQ-20i's and the mirror-imaged DQ-10's, both of which I owned. And I wish I still had them! I have not heard any speaker at $1000 per pair (new) or even $1500 per pair (new) that I would prefer. I of course have not listened to all speakers available new between $1000 and $1500 per pair. Has anyone?!

However, Almarg's comment about "purchasing a restoration project" are an important consideration for anyone considering Dahlquist speakers. The good news is, there are companies (e.g., Regnar) that can take care of most needed Dahlquist restorations.

One other thing I would mention is that in my experience, the DQ-20i's and especially the mirror-imaged DQ-10's sounded better at moderate to louder levels and required significant quality amplification to sound their best (to my ears, anyway). They both sounded great with my Levinson 27.5 that I had at the time.

DQ-10s excel at vocals

That's one of those questions you'll have to answer for yourself.

Dahlquist has a devoted following, but it is hardly universal. They really "sang" for some but left others cold. I was in the category that found them "interesting" but wasn't taken with them.

They are a very inefficient speaker so aren't the best choice for those who like their music on the high-volume end of things.

If you're OK on that front, the best thing to do is listen to them and see what you think. You'll probably either be very impressed and think they are spot-on or you'll scratch your head.

I never found their tonality particularly accurate in reproducing acoustic instruments, though they certainly had a pleasant balance. I also thought the 3-D imaging so many found wonderful to be on the overblown, rather artificial side.

Only you can figure out which camp you're in. If you really like 'em, they are a heck of a contender in the price range you mention (assuming they are in good repair). If you aren't immediately drawn to them you'll probably find a number of other speakers in that price range you'll prefer.

Most of the opinions you'll get will be from those having listened to the Dahlquists almost 30 years ago, and playing with the equipment and cabling of that decade(obviously). Very doubtful that they can actually compare what they heard then with what's being heard now. The ideal would be to find a pair that has been mirror imaged, had the x-over upgraded and piezo(YUCH) tweeter replaced with a ribbon to audition(I used to mod them when I owned my shop in Winter Park, Fl). You might try finding some contacts, local to you, here: (http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/Dahlquist/message/338?l=1) Done right, the DQ-10 actually sounds a lot like music, and that's what it's all about. YES- They require some power to achieve realistic SPLs, and an actively bi-amped sub helps too.

Up to a $1,000, sure...the DQ 10's are very nice if you feed them enough power, and place them on good stands. (I did own a pair).

DQ 12's?....I don't recall them?

Dave