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Hi All
New to the Asylum, I have a PeachtreePre and Peachtree 220 amp, Ill be running an optical from my computer to the Pre, for my Flac files and spotify. I am looking for a set of bookshelf speakers (new/used) $500-1000 range. I have a few in mind but have not heard many of them, some brands Proac Tablette, Kef LS50, Dynaudio,Zu Omen bookshelf, Sonus Concerto's. I listen to a wide range of music classic rock, classical, pop, southern rock. Im looking for something very clear esp on Vocals, bass is not too much of a concern I will be adding a sub in future. Any thoughts on the speakers above and if so which models.
Thanks ALL
Follow Ups:
Update...I finally have the peachtree pre n 220 set up running my PSB mini strats and I gotta say it sounds pretty good (they are 86db/w/m and 4 ohm imp.) Thanks everyone on your input and sugg. The PSBs have to go back to my 5.1 system at some point so I have narrowed it down to the KEF LS50 and Asends Sierra 1 or 2s The 2s are alittle out of my price range (500-1000). Im not in a rush and want to try and audition the Sierra's if I can. Thanks again I will update when all said and done.
Tony
Since you're all Peachtree the D5 monitors are highly recommended by a poster here. Personally I'm a Proac fan. A Rythmic sub should be in consideration with any of the small monitors.
Edits: 09/29/16
Give consideration to Ascend Acoustics Sierra 2's. The RAAL tweeter is special.
The coincident/coaxial driver design of the KEF LS50 make them an easy recommend for nearfield applications. As always, audition before purchasing.
Since the founder passed away, his products are heavily discounted and fantastic.I have a pair in my office/game room. Here's a link to a single one.
-Rod
Edits: 09/28/16 09/28/16
Merlin TSMs at anything less that a couple thousand would be a bargain. Saw a pair the other day on Audiogon for about $4K with BAM.
The TSMs don't use the BAM, that's for the VSMs. I just saw a pair on ePay for $2K. I'm somewhat surprised that you don't see many for sale. Perhaps the nervous nellies dumped theirs after Bobby passed away and the rest won't let them go.
-Rod
Those VSM-M are probably close to 15 years old, but still a good deal.
Used TSM's are around and show up from time to time (fairly regularly)... Used prices can vary a bunch because the basic speakers was made for such a long time... A old pair (15 or more years old in studio black finish) can go for around $1,000 or less... Newer pairs/versions (especially on the optional clear coat finish and the latest crossover updates and Master RC networks) will go for a bunch more.
I'll put a plug in here too (I hope Rod does not mind my breach of forum rules here) ..... I have taken on supporting all of Merlin's VSM and TSM models. I have spare parts and (most of the) drivers on hand to do repairs, and have all parts on hand to do upgrades (which I hope to start doing in earnest next month) to speakers. Have been working/making the BAM for several years too and do repairs/upgrades on those.
Happy Listening,
Rich Brkich
Retailer & Audio Asylum Industry Liaison
Rich,
As a long time Merlin VSM and Joule Electra OTL owner I'm really glad to see you providing service & upgrades for both. It's great to be able to deal with someone you trust and knows the products so well.
again.
Swear the ad on Audiogon included TWO BAMs as well as the TSMs.
Most of the folks I know with VSMs plan to be buried with them so I doubt I'll have to worry.
nt
The LS-50 is a good place to start and it will likely hold its second hand value - you can get them here in Hong Kong for about $550 US. Which is 1/3 of what they sold for new - but I should think they will not drop below that anytime soon. The KITs can be a good suggestion but the downside is that they are virtually worthless if you try to sell them. So they have an initially attractive price but their net cost can be much higher.
Note that the KEF is not an easy speaker to drive properly so be prepared to use a high quality amplifier.
Alternates would be the ATC SCM 19 which I like more than my KEF LS-50 in terms of tonality but it is pricey and I prefer my Audio Note AX Two standmount to the KEF. The latter is very difficult to get but second hand values will be in your price range toward the lower end. You can shove them right up against the wall (1cm from the wall) or in corners no problem. Also dead easy to drive. Designed by Andy Whittle (Rogers LS-3/5a guru and Celestion designer). So you have the mainstream suggestion, the pro studio suggestion and the under the radar suggestion. All have their pros and cons.
The single driver speaker maker Omega might also be an option as bass is something you're not too concerned with as you say you will be getting a sub.
The KEF is overall pretty darn sexy in terms of looks and build and all that - while the AX Two looks kinda dumpy - so if that is important to you - go with the KEF. As you can see
What kind of specs or features should we look for in amp that will "drive properly" the LS50?
Amplifiers that can deliver to 3ohms would be the first place to start. And while subjective - amplifiers that don't exhibit issues in the reble which will exacerbate the KEF's treble. Watts are somewhat important due to the speakers low sensitivity rating. So in a larger room you would want a higher watt amplifier. I use a 24 watt SET but then my room isn't very big. Subjectively it sounds better than the SS amp I have here with significantly more power.
Thanks for help and sugg. I have a pair of PSB mini strats I removed from my HT setup (rears). So once is all is setup these guys will fill in the meantime. Also of note these will be shelf mounted and pretty close together 3-4' apart for a few months anyway until some construction is all done.
Thanks again
DIY the LM-1 kit, build a pair for under $400, sounds fantastic, parts comparable to $1,500 speakers. Extremely neutral and smooth.
Instructions help you tune the speaker's treble balance.
Best,
Erik
if a bit more than $1000. It's a good match for the power and quality of your other gear as well as your listening choices.Way better, IMNSHO, that the other choices you listed.
Edits: 09/28/16
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