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Best monitors under $5,000/system combos

I want to build a new system around a high quality small monitor. I'm thinking of the SF Cremona Audtor, the Dynaudio Special 25, or the De Capio MM i. I also want to keep the electronics small but high quality. I'm open to tubes, but prefer the simplicity of solid state.

I live where little gear is avaiable. We have an AR dealer who sells Pro Ac, and a Classe dealer who sells B&W. There is also a dealer who sells Bryston and PMC.

I'm leaning toward the SF speakers with Carey tube amps, or if I go solid state, the Pass 150.5 and a Pass preamp.

I know this is a very broad question, but if there is someone who can point to me in one direction or another (either to or away from something), I'd be grateful.

I listen mostly to piano music, opera, and chamber music of all sorts. Once in a while some jazz. I also listen to coral music of all sorts. Seldom any rock.

I just sold a system consisting of Bryston electronics, MG 3.6R speakers, a Oracle Delphi table.

Thanks everyone.

MMC
msmcelwee
blcube
94 posts
 
STAR SOUND TECH.-Harmonic Precision Caravelle,is for the
Serious Music Lovers.They are a must hear monitors,with a
30day trial.
aboldor
49 posts
 
I have the Auditors powered by an X-150.
Piano and strings recordings sound so good on them, sometimes it's eerie. They *love* chamber music and vocals. On the other hand, they're less ideal for big orchestras and rock (they do hold their own, but they're *mini*monitors, after all). They're not the last word in detail and maybe a tad warm - but this is relative. As always, the final impression is a matter of synergy (system, room) and personal tastes. Good luck.
s7horton
1,077 posts
 
The Caravelles can't be had in a complete system for 5000 dollars. I'd look at some B&W signatures and a classe integrated. Although, I think the Cremona Auditor and cary amplification would be very nice as well. Especially with the chamber music. Let us know how it turns out.
ephemere
1 posts
 
I listen to all types of music, but mainly classical. I auditioned the Reference 3A MM De Capo i (and quite a few other speakers) before buying the Dynaudio Special 25. The MM De Capo i was rather mediocre overall and to my ears is easily bested by many other speakers I heard. It is simply not very transparent or revealing. I tried some Sonus Fabers, and they also failed to stand out. I didn't hear the Cremona Auditor, but I did hear the Amati Homage and was not impressed for $20,000. I would strongly recommend finding a way to audition the Dynaudio Special 25. The Special 25 is perhaps the most revealing and accurate speaker I heard at that price, and yet somehow it is laid back at the same time. Almost nothing I throw at it is difficult to listen to, and I have recordings going back to 1902. I would also suggest adding the Wilson Benesch Arc to your list. The Arc is not well known and is hard to find, but is a really superb speaker. Among standmounts, it would have ranked #2 on my list.
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