Help me choose a speaker match for my Line Magnetic 805ia tube amp under $10K

LM805 is very similar to LM508 except it bypass pre input tubes to be used as power amplifier.

Although LM805 has very deep and powerful bass with 48W, it still need to be mated with high efficiency speakers at least 90db/W to play Jazz with realistic volume.

Thus I would exclude Magico and Dynaudio.

Dynaudio is very power hungry. It will be worst match.


I had listened to several models of Focal speakers, not Sopra2.

But they have lot of things in common, clean and sparking treble out of beryllium tweeter. tight and powerful bass.

But Focal speakers are also power hungry despite the spec of 90db/w.

Sonus Faber which is more refined and suitable for classical music is also power hungry.


If you do not play loud, Focal or Sonus Farber may work with LM805.


You can also consider used Piega 60.2.

https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lis96ce8-piega-classic-60-2-trades-accepted-reduced-full-range

It also have sparkle with higher efficiency.

I had listened to other model of Piega in Audio Show.

They gave very refined treble with tight and tuneful bass (not very powerful like Focal).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=79po0jiM_wc




If you like Jazz, you may also consider Pure Audio Project speakers with high efficiency.

I was also tempted to get one of Pure Audio Project speakers as second system.



One more choice is DeVore O/96 which works well with tube amplifier.

If you can stretch your budget this could be fantastic  match with LM805

https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lis971fc-avantgarde-uno-picco-rare-full-range

http://www.jazz-audio.com/pdf/equipos/PICCO_0_117.pdf

Avantgarde horn is very good for Jazz music.

Those are all very mainstream choices.  Going a little off the beaten track will net you much better results.

First of all, take a good look at Daedalus.  All their speakers are rated with high sensitivities, yet can handle power.  There are several good models in your price range.

Another great recommendation is Salk.  Likewise, a number of excellent models in your price range.  You can talk with the designer directly, and ensure that your amp is a great match.  You can't say that of the likes of B&W, Focal or Sonus Faber.

The Spendor D9 should be added to your list. I purchased a pair six months ago with a targeted presentation goal similar to the one you have stated.  They are not harsh but supply excellent musical detail and bass extension.