Both are really good but different. Apples and Oranges for sure.
In a large room, well treated, and set up right the LS-9's can be blissful, and really tough to top. They also need a decent amount of power, control, and drive to really shine. So plan on a decent amp budget.
The thing I like about the Super-V is how well they work in any room no matter how small. They require very little power and are very easy to drive. So amplification cost can be much lower. I have to give the edge in bass response to the Super-V as well. They not only go lower, but don't load the room and are completely controllable from 200Hz and down. Dynamics are incredible in the Super-V as well.
I've got about 60 hours on mine and they're starting to open up. Glorious sound and they keep getting better. What has shocked me the most is at first I thought they were really bright. Well to my ears I'm sure they were. I did not like the top end as well as my ob-5s. Not so much any more. It's made me change how I look at the entire landscape.
I went over to my ex's and listened to them the other day and they sounded good but not Super V good. Like no contest. Really not even fair.
These babies are really starting to shine. Very open and revealing. Soundstage starting to open up now. The bass....."Fa-get about it!!!!!!". Amazing!!!!!!!!!!. I always thought of myself as a top end guy. Not any more. I forgot how good bass could sound.
I've been rolling between the Amperex PQ6922's and the Telefunken EC88's and I think overall I have to give the nod to the Amperex but The T's have a little tighter bass. A bit dry though imo compared to the A's in my room. The bass is kind of rounder, not as centered or jackhammer with the Amperex but I kind of like it better. The Amperex is syrupy smooth to me. Magnificent mids. I'll probably get the upgrade Jupiters but I'm not convinced I really need them.
One of the best things about them is they look elegant and nasty ass at the same time too. Not that it matters. Oh hell who am I kidding. Of course it does.
PS. For you guys getting the SV's, expect a LONG break-in. Be patient. This was my fourth build and these by far have taken the longest. Again..... be patient.
PS2. I have a Dodd battery preamp and two Dodd 50 watt mono blocks. I can't get them above 11:00 on the volume without making my ears bleed. They are EXTREMELY efficient. I also have a Rega Planet CD player for my source. Next step will be moving into the Mac Mini/DAC setup. One step at a time as they say.
