Speaker questions ProAc, Harbeth, ATC
Would like the forum's view on a potential speaker upgrade. I listen to ProAc Response 2.5 speakers which I purchased nearly 30 years ago. They have been wonderful. I also have a REL T9x subwoofer. Since the speakers are so old, I have been thinking of looking to upgrade. The options I have on my list are new ProAcs, ATC and Harbeth. I would be prepared to buy used. I am looking for a similar sound to the ProAcs but maybe with a firmer bass. I listen at reasonable levels and my tastes are classic rock and jazz. I find the ProAcs are great with jazz. My room is not dedicated to sound only and is 15 ft x 20 ft. Thank you for suggestions.
I have owned a lot of different Proac speakers including the 2.5 which you now own. I upgraded to the D-40r which I still own. The newer Proac speakers are an improvement, especially in the treble. I owned Harbeth Compact 7 (I forget which version) and like @larsman I can assure you they don't rock. I have not heard the ATC line except at shows so no opinion to share |
I had the 2.5's. They have a hump in the bass which can make it sound less refined. Placement can help, so you may want to move them around a bit just to see. The amp has a big effect, as well. I don't know what you have, but it may not have enough power to control the speaker properly. You have a 2 way floor standing ported speaker. You're asking a lot from the single woofer in the 2.5. You can only get so much out of it. As for a recommendation, everyone will give you a different answer, including me. Giving what you're asking for, I would recommend Vandersteen. If you put a pair of Model 2's next to them, they will beat the 2.5's in every area. Especially bass. However, you still need to demo them first. Its a very different sounding speaker. The Model 2's are more neutral, transparent and detailed. You may prefer the more forgiving, midrange focused ProAc's. If you compared them side by side, most people would take the 2.5's at first. After extended listening, you'll start to hear the things that make the Model 2's better. And if the Model 3's are in your price range, they're even better. |
I've auditioned 4 ATC models. They're all great sounding speakers. But there's a big difference between the 2 and 3 way lines. The 2 ways sound beautiful but polite. The 3 ways sound beautiful and ROCK! Absolutely no distortion at high volume with great detail and transparency. The 40s are a great value but the 50s are worth the price. I've heard the 100s and they're amazing for the right room. Good luck in your hunt!
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