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Speaker hunt -> To leave or not Leave Martin Logan Behind

Hello all,

I’ve been a MartinLogan owner for about 22 years and have gone through much of their lineup, including the CLX. I’m currently running the 15A, which has been my favorite to date.

Lately, I’ve been considering a move away from electrostatics. While I’ve managed to get the 15A dialed in extremely well in my room (great stage, excellent low end integration), I’m starting to experience some long-term fatigue with the panel presentation—particularly with my core listening preferences.

Roughly 60% of my listening is hard rock/metal, with the remaining 40% being more refined material (Al Di Meola, Patricia Barber, Nils Lofgren, etc.). I also occasionally stream electronic (techno/dubstep). Vinyl is my primary source, with some streaming mixed in.

What I’m looking for:

  • Retain a large, dimensional soundstage similar to the 15A
  • Strong, controlled low-end performance
  • Improved midrange density/impact and overall drive, especially for rock/metal
  • Better long-term listenability with more dynamic “weight”

I’m currently considering the Focal Sopra No.2, but I’m open to other options in the ~$15-25K range (new or used).

I figure I’ll need a sub as well once O lose the 12” subs on the ML  

I’d really value input from those who have transitioned from panels to dynamic speakers—what worked, what didn’t, and where you ultimately landed.

Current system:

  • MartinLogan 15A
  • Mark Levinson No. 585
  • Rega P8 / Ortofon 2M Black LVB 250
  • Manley Chinook SE
  • Cambridge Audio CXN V2

Room: 18’ wide (front wall) x 15’ to back wall and 9ft from listening seat to speakers  

Appreciate any insights—especially from those with similar musical tastes or system paths.

Thanks in advance.

necrosuit
mike4597's avatar
mike4597
303 posts
 

In the $15K to $25K range I would definitely look hard at the Fyne Audio 700 series.  The F-704 (12” bass) and F-703SP (10” bass but upgraded components) both are in the middle of your range—not sure of the price on the F-704SPs.  I have the F-702 models with the 8” woofers and run them with two Rhythmik F12se subs, and the sound quality is superb, with the MSRP of that combo now running about $15k.  Great instrument and voice tonal qualities, superb soundstage, and great definition.  The music does not “appear” to be coming from the speakers at all, but from an area around, behind, and above them … and to some degree from beyond the sides of the speakers.  I am using a tube preamp and solid state power amplification, and I could not be more pleased with the sound.  I would have liked to buy the F-704s, but they would have overpowered, visually, our modest living room.  This combo gives me superb SQ throughout the spectrum, with bass you can feel … but only when it is there in the music.  

ronboco
1,110 posts
 

@jijoh123 

interesting comment about Tekton speakers. I would love to hear them someday. What are the other brands you have compared them to ? 

jfrost27
97 posts
 

Legacy Audio Focus HD. Or if you can stretch a bit, the Aeris. The Aeris retails for $30k. But dealers will usually discount as much as 15% which brings them very close. They’re stunning both in sound and appearance. 

oldelectricalinspector
55 posts
 

I too was a long time ML owner, I had a pair of Request supplemented with a pair of Depth subs.  Recently I went to my local dealer ( Nuts about hifi in Silverdale Wa. Great name, great dealer) whom I love and have thousands of doughnuts invested in. He had pair of Sopra 3s in on trade . I pulled the trigger. Upgraded the all the cables to Nordost Heimdal. Put me in the happy category. I appreciated the Marin Logan’s and I appreciate the differences with the Focals. 
The Focals have a better wider sweet spot , more dynamic presentation, in my room I,ve left the subs out of the system . I’ve had them for about a month , I’m enjoying the change.

rich

soix
11,230 posts
 

Yeah I’d agree coming off MLs the treble in the Focals will likely be too much especially with a lotta the music you like to listen to, so it’s good you can go hear them first.  I know what you’re talking about in terms of wanting more dynamic weight/heft in the mids, and I think you’re on the right track with a box speaker with dynamic drivers to give you exactly that.  If you can stretch a bit these Joseph Audio Pearls could be your end-game speakers and no subs required.  Best of luck. 

https://www.ebay.com/itm/227271549492

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