For rock/metal you need speakers with Strong mid/upper bass IMO and a not so strong upper range like Focal. I love Focal speakers for well recorded anything. Anything less not as much although they are not as ruthless as many people think in my experience. 4 way speaker is the best for metal/rock. That dedicated mid bass brings it home.
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.
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@necrosuit if you experience fatigue with the martin logans I don’t think the Focals are the right speakers. I used to own ML Montis with the powered bass module. They never ever sounded fatiguing. I also heard the 13A and thought they were very nice. |
- 83 posts total

