Warm, Lush Laid-Back Smaller Floor Standers?


Hello to all Audiogon Forum members - 

Long time lurker and first time poster here. I'd really appreciate advice from members here on my current quest to up-level my audio system. About a year ago, after not having any real nice audio gear for roughly 20 years, decided it was time to invest in a proper set-up. We were coming out of Covid and I think, like many of us, I was feeling a little stir crazy and probably made some impetuous decisions... 

The Room 
A large rectangular room (30 feet wide x 90 feet long) with high ceilings (12 feet). The room is made up of a dining area, kitchen and living room. The audio set-up is against the wall in the living room. We listen to music in the living room on the coach and/or sitting chairs. That said, because of the room layout, we listen while we are cooking or dining, as well. 

The Problem 
While on some days, while listening to classical, jazz or acoustic music - anything airy - I'm absolutely overjoyed with my system. On other days, especially when i want to listen to some indie rock or electronica, my speakers and preamp/amp just don't cut it. The speakers feel too small for the space (they are - I get it). And I wonder if the tubes I'm using are really a great match for the speakers. Things sound "smeared" when playing more complex rock/electronica. 

As for the Dynaudio Heritage Specials, the higher frequencies can be wonderful, but can sometimes feel bright. And while the bass is good for a bookshelf speaker, I feel like I'm missing the deeper frequencies. It's like having a half a meal. The part you get is fantastic, but you leave the restaurant still feeling hungry. 

I'd consider purchasing a subwoofer, but I'm rather more interested in looking for alternate speakers or possibly tweaking my amp/preamp. 

The System 
Dynaudio Heritage Special Speakers 
Innuous Zenith Music Server
Merason DAC1 
Qualiton/Audio Hungary Tube Preamp
Qualiton/Audio Hungary 100 Watt Power Amp
Cardas Clear Interconnect and Cardas Cygnus Speaker Cables 

**I've got a Linear Tube Audio Microzotl Preamp on the way. I'm looking forward to hear if it can be an improvement on my existing preamp. 

My Question for Forum Members 
Speaker suggestions: I'm looking for a smaller floorstanding speakers with a warm, laid-back and relaxing sound signature. I'm considering the QLN Prestige Three and/or the new Mission 770 Speakers (not a floor stander, but bigger than Dynaudio Heritage Specials) Again, I'd prefer a smaller floorstanding speaker. I've listened to Proacs in the past and they also seemed to have the qualities I'm looking for. 

What advice do you have for me on speakers? 

Amp/Preamp suggestions: 
Are tube amps just not ideal for rock and/or electronic music? Should I just call it a day and get PassLab Class A amp to cover my needs? 

Thanks in advance for your suggestions! 






 

bluethinker66

Thanks for everyone's contributions! 

In terms of budget, I'd consider spending up to $8K at this moment in time and would definitely consider the used market for speakers. I am, though, on the West Coast and unable to pursue those Joseph Audio speakers, as it looks like he's looking for someone more local. 

I've heard Spendor's Vandersteen speakers before, but wasn't totally blown away at the time. I have a dealer in town who carries both, so it looks like another audition is warranted. 

@lak - My understanding is they are a little forward and full of dynamics, no? Maybe my understanding of their sound profile is way off? Would you consider the sound as rich and lush or more dynamic and exciting? 

Regarding subwoofers, I've read that Rel Subwoofers are hard to beat for the price. I've also heard that getting a Subwoofer calibrated isn't always that easy. I'd appreciate any advice from forum members on how to best approach setting up a Subwoofer AND/OR guidance on any other brands to consider. 

@tomic601 - Sorry to be a dunce, but what does "high pass your main" mean exactly. I'll google it for more explanation but thought I'd ask you directly. 


Again - really appreciate everyone's input! 

High pass is using the speaker connection as opposed to the preamp connection. Klipsch Heritage speakers can be both warm and dynamic with tube components.I've taken my amp to my brother's place and used it with his Chorus pair.He's a ss guy and was very tempted to come over to the 'dark side':-) Warm and lush doesn't describe LTA products IME. They are fine products but lean towards the clean/clear sound.Subs with built in equalizers and an app (such as SVS) are super easy to set up.Just a few things to research further.

@bluethinker66  probably dynamic and exciting however it's important to hear a fully broken-in Klipsch vs one that has not been fully broken in, a day and night difference.

What is your budget?  Also have you thought about trying a computer as a source and just using some EQ? Might be worth a try if you have a laptop around. 
 

I had similar issues with all the speakers I owned. Running two subs highpassed helped a lot. My room is 27x24x7’. I think if you like electronic music (I do) subs are requirement. Only the largest of super speakers have texture down low like a good sub. 
 

the other speaker that solved my problem was Revel 228be. They have 5db drop (straight line) from bass to treble. But they need subs as they don’t reach low. The 226be sounds almost identical and are super small but the measurements show they playing at a whopping 105db without issue. Anyway on the 228be I am listening and ENJOYING music from my youth again. These things sound great on audiophile music but even on crap they how how add dynamics and don’t hurt my ears. 
 

measurements at the bottom of the link below.  
 

https://www.erinsaudiocorner.com/loudspeakers/revel_f226be/

While i happen to love Vandersteen ( i have 2 pair and have had a set of 5a in a room your size w 10’ ceilings ) i get they are not for everyone.

High pass is NOT a speaker level connection to the sub !

High pass is a bass roll off filter either passive via the Vandersteen way or active in other schemes. The high pass ( as in passes high frequencies typically somewhere between 80-120 hz ) is placed between preamp and amp.

So you can imagine the loafing easy job your main amplifier now enjoys = better slam + midrange clarity…

The vandersteen system also use a speaker level connection…. there are others…..

Jim