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Speaker Audition

I presently have an Avantgarde Uno (about 15 years old) in my system.  It’s very good but I am feeling it’s time for a different approach to getting the sound I want/like .... that being musicality and dynamics.  Horns deliver this but with a horn signature if you get what I mean.  I am looking for suggestions of what should be on my audition list.  Budget would be +/-$25k.  I was at an audio show this weekend and listened to a few speakers that might fit the bill:  Genesis Maestro, Rockport Atria II, Magico S5, Vandersteen 5A Carbon, Tannoy Kensington, Vivid Kaya 90 (maybe too small for the room and the big Vivids too much $).  Really appreciate any suggestions you might have of speakers that I might add to this list for further listening.

(Music I listen to most: rock, jazz, blues and female vocals.  Amps Pass Labs XA 60.8, AR Ref 6 Pre, REL subs, sources vinyl and streaming, largeish listening room but have to set up speakers on the long wall ... far from corners)
chilli42
gregm
3,395 posts
 
Things I love about horns are dynamics and the "you're there" sound you get with live recordings.Genesis and Tannoy will give you some of what you're used to with your A-gardes, albeit I advise you to listen to the Tannoys. The bigger Devore speakers also convey a sense of reality in the room.
Generally speaking, all of the speakers in your list are excellent; I just singled out the ones that probably work best with your Pass.
rodge827's avatar
rodge827
614 posts
 
Depending on your room size Charney Audio makes full range rear loaded horns based on a tractrix design. Not your typical horn sound. Very full and engaging with non of the horn coloration's you may have heard in other designs. Best is to set up an appointment to audition at Charney in Somerset NJ.

http://charneyaudio.com/
dodgealum
1,398 posts
 
I hear you on the horns—they do some things really well. I’ve heard the Charney’s at CAF and in his showroom (house)—they are good (not game changing but good). Your electronics and room compel a look at the Daedalus Apollo 11. They will give you 98% of what you like about your horns (97db efficient) PLUS proper tone that will show where your current Sonics may be lacking. They are in your price range as well.
dodgealum
1,398 posts
 
PS: curious what audio show you attended during the pandemic.
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