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Upgrade from Quad 11L?

My current setup:

Music Hall cd25.2
Music Hall a25.2
Quad 11L
Onkyo T-9 tuner
Audioquest Alpha-Snake interconnects
No-name 12-gauge speaker wire

The 11Ls just replaced Paradigm Mini Mk3s. A big improvement: I love the Quad's detail, clarity, and pace. So much that I'm contemplating an upgrade to Quad 12Ls (if I can find the old version) or Quad 12L Actives (which I know I can get; the MH a25.2 would serve as a preamp).

My sense is that the system as it stands is well-balanced, and I'm actually very satisfied with what I hear. So I'm trying to decide whether this is an itch I should scratch. My suspicion is that I should stand pat and think about long-range upgrades rather than tinker now, but input would be helpful. I listen to all kinds of music, but Wilco and Radiohead are playing most often. Thanks.
afranta
Ag insider logo xs@2x
knownothing
1,536 posts
 
Agree with idea to experiment with wires. Contact The Cable Company for advice and access to demos. Or, check out these Internet vendors:

http://www.anticables.com/products.html

http://www.audioartcable.com/

http://www.bluejeanscable.com/

http://signalcable.com/

http://marc.stager.com/silver/

http://zebracables.com/
chazzbo
1,007 posts
 
Have the active 11's and they are just too small 12's are better but for cost if you have space go for 21's or 22's if you like sound and want to stay in same line.If you need bookshelves NHT Classic 3's are harder to find now but for a <$1 speaker they rock.Add a good fast sub (for cheap HSU VTF or Aperion 8) and you'd have a great system with way more body.I am interested that Timrhu didn't like actives but you have good electronics so I'd go un-powered if buying 12's.Real Brit sound and very good product as a line.

But I'd also listen if I could to Epos,Totems or if you can swing $1500 Usher Tiny Dancers (used though power might be issue there) if committed to monitors.The one I want to hear is the Zu Tone (and whole line for that matter.
Cheers
Chazz
afranta OP
180 posts
 
Many thanks to all! I'm going to think hard about working on cables, wires, and isolation devices (although I've always been skeptical about spending $100s rather than $10s on wire). Thanks for the suggestions about where to start.

Timru's experience with the 12L actives is helpful; I no longer feel like I'd be missing out if I don't go in that direction. And I like the idea of making the most of what I have. (I'm going to read your review of the 11Ls, Guido. I do love them.)

"The Bends" is my favorite Radiohead as well, Timru, but I've been blown away by the recording quality of "In Rainbows" (and Wilco's new album, too).
afranta OP
180 posts
 
Sorry, Timrhu, I missed the "h."
milpai's avatar
milpai
2,318 posts
 
I completely agree with Guido, since I have the Quad 21L. I recently upgraded my preamp and you cannot believe what a difference it has made in my system. I believe that the more powerful an amp you give the Quads, the better they will sing - of course with better wires. You can check out the evolution in my system. Before you change the speakers make sure you have a good pair of speaker wires. Try the Signal Cable wires. I am patiently searching for a new power amp. This will happen sometimes in Feb-April 2010.
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