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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
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

oldelectricalinspector
55 posts
 

I have a friend who bought new Sopra 3s along with all Aesthetixs separates , Mola Mola dac , I first heard the system about two weeks from when first got it .  It was bright and fatigueing.  I heard it again about  4 months later, Hugh difference.  We sat for over 4 hours having a blast. 

necrosuit OP
17 posts
 

Heres a tidbit->
Local Focal dealer said the below, what do you all think about these brands that I can audition? These brands are not on my radar but neither was a lot of your suggestions. Just curious as to thoughts and expeience with these brands and models.

After living with the M/L speakers with powered woofers, you may want a sub(s) regardless of what new speaker you purchase.

For your room size, I think additional speakers would be the Paradigm($18,000.00pr) Persona 5F, and the KEF($16,000.00) Reference 3 META, work in the Sopra N2 price range.

We have the smaller Paradigm Persona 3F and larger 9H along with the KEF Reference 3META  also on display.

Sonos Faber and us parted ways back in 2010. Not familiar with the current lineup.

kennyc
2,834 posts
 

It’s been awhile since I demoed speakers, but I used an assortment of CDs when demoing: acoustic instruments (violin, piano, flute, horns, bells, drum…), male/female solo voices, orchestra, other familiar music. Noting the accompanying electronics can also be beneficial in speaker/amp matching.

Since the OP appears to be increasing speaker energy assuming significant volume for hard rock/metal, the room may need additional treatment. 

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