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

I’ll add…

If you experience fatigue mostly when listening to digital you might want to consider upgrading your streamer/dac to something more refined. 

1) try more power.

2) you may find Focal bright.

3) try Rockport or current Wilson.

Has been since the days of Tweeter electronics that I heard ML and then I didn't care how the bass and higher fq's sounded so poorly integrated.

Having owned and heard different MLs over the years, looking closer at your gear list, and how a really good "preamplifier" can also help.

Other options - 

Have you ever tried a really good tube preamplifier (with great input/driver tubes) matched up with your Mark Levinson 585 amplifier before?

@necrosuit 

Current system:

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

ASK:

What is your MAIN preamplifier in use again, can you reconfirm?

Is there anyone near you who could lend / demo a really great tube preamp to you?

I love my tektons although I've been reluctant to support them after seeing what happened with Erin from Erin's audio corner.  Sucks because I really like the speaks but don't like supporting someone who threatens to sue reviewers for just doing their job.  Unless I'm missing info that's what appears to have happened.  Not sure if anyone touches them on a value basis though.  Those new Fyne models do seem pretty sick but probably can't hit the spls of the tektons from the reviews I read