The Search for New Speaks Has Started...help

KeithR · « **on:** 21 Nov 2006, 10:08 pm »

Alright gents, name your favorite speaker for $3k "cash" cost be it new or used and why.

As I am selling my house and probably moving soon....I decided to sell my Wilson Sophias and not deal with the hassle. Also time to try something new after almost 3 years.

Associated equipment is a Denon 3910 and Nuforce P-8/Ref 9. I have debated going to a Modwright preamp---or a Blue Circle or VAC integrated. I am thinking a more efficient speaker, thereby not limiting amplifier selection, is key in my decision.

Thanks in advance guys!

KeithR

fredgarvin · « **Reply #1 on:** 21 Nov 2006, 10:53 pm »

I would start by visiting the various manufacturers here on Audiocircle and checkings their forums. Much info about the characteristics of each would be gleaned. Otherwise a post like this usually ends up with "buy my favorite...its the best" posts for pages on end. but then thats kinda fun as well!

R_burke · « **Reply #2 on:** 22 Nov 2006, 12:02 am »

I agree with Fred, and in keeping with his entire thought process I will make my recommendation, which are from a Manufacturer on AC

RAW Acoustics RA8, or LXII, for a little more the HT8

warnerwh · « **Reply #3 on:** 22 Nov 2006, 12:33 am »

You'll get the most sound quality per dollar from the direct sales here on AC. You can have outstanding sound for 3k.

Good luck with your new house

Merle · « **Reply #4 on:** 22 Nov 2006, 01:01 am »

Focal is making some VERY interesting speakers in the 3K range. Fast, open, detailed and very easy to drive.

mr_bill · « **Reply #5 on:** 22 Nov 2006, 01:24 am »

If I didn't have expensive speakers already, I'd buy a pair of VMPS RM30's. OR maybe a smaller standmount like the Paradigm Reference 2 with a sub.

Big Red Machine · « **Reply #6 on:** 22 Nov 2006, 01:38 am »

Already sold those Sophias?

jermmd · « **Reply #7 on:** 22 Nov 2006, 01:52 am »

Zybar has just gotten new Vandersteen 5A's. See if he'll sell you his Salk Veracity HT3's. If you can get them, you'll be very happy. They may already have been sold though. I can't remember.

PaulFolbrecht · « **Reply #8 on:** 22 Nov 2006, 02:15 am »

Do check out VMPS and Green Mountain Audio.

zybar · « **Reply #9 on:** 22 Nov 2006, 02:20 am »

Quote from: jermmd on 22 Nov 2006, 01:52 am

Zybar has just gotten new Vandersteen 5A's. See if he'll sell you his Salk Veracity HT3's. If you can get them, you'll be very happy. They may already have been sold though. I can't remember.

Easy cowboy. aa

George

friend2alldogs · « **Reply #10 on:** 22 Nov 2006, 03:03 am »

Here's a good deal for 1600.00 for a 4k pair of speakers
http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?spkrfull&1169343992

KeithR · « **Reply #11 on:** 22 Nov 2006, 03:11 am »

Yes, the Sophias were picked up on Saturday to a great buyer.

I realize i could dig into 35 forums or what not, but 1 thread to compile a list of potential auditions is what I'm going for. Many of you had similar budgets I'm sure, and I value that input. Also want know the "new new thing" on the circle.

Thanks again,

Keith

warnerwh · « **Reply #12 on:** 22 Nov 2006, 05:34 am »

I'd research every speaker in my price range on Audiocircle and audition ones where user feedback sounds like something you may like.

Most of these forums have many users who will invite you over for a listen. I suspect posting in that circle where you live and what you'd like to hear will get you some auditions.

JLM · « **Reply #13 on:** 22 Nov 2006, 09:47 am »

I'd budget $2000 for the speakers and $1000 for room treatments/upgrades.

Great advice so far, but if you really want specifics we need to know just what kind of speaker, music, listening preferences, and sound you're after.

TomS · « **Reply #14 on:** 22 Nov 2006, 12:31 pm »

Sticking with the AC/used theme, I believe there was a pair of SP Tech Timepieces in studio cabinets at $2500 and a pair of Ronins at $2200 both of which would be a steal. Klaus could get you into a set of Loreleis in that range too. Many others - GR Research, RAW Acoustics, Selah.

Of course, it all comes down to your preferences and budget.

Tom

bushbison · « **Reply #15 on:** 22 Nov 2006, 01:47 pm »

Hey there; slightly biased, but I have a great pair of VMPS RM30m's, piano black, w/ CDWG's included for sale for 2300.00 + shipping!!!

Just drop me a message if interested!

woodsyi · « **Reply #16 on:** 22 Nov 2006, 02:04 pm »

Hey, this is way over your budget but what the heck. You are coming from Sophias. I think this is the one with the biggest bang for the buck right now. I really would sell my current speakers and buy this pair if I had a room that would do justice to the horns on this baby.

Here is the link to more information.
http://www.responseaudio.com/UsherD2Ultimate.htm
It sucks not to have a bigger room.

Bill's even entertaining partial trade. If you are like a lot of us, you probably have a basement full of gears you can part with.

Good luck.

P.S. RM30 deal looks sweet. Also try some diffusors -- made a big difference.

Hantra · « **Reply #17 on:** 22 Nov 2006, 04:08 pm »

Quote from: KeithR on 21 Nov 2006, 10:08 pm

Alright gents, name your favorite speaker for $3k "cash" cost be it new or used and why.

You can try and snag a pair of these.

http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?spkrfull&1166965203

Why? Because you don't want to step down so hard you get whiplash. I've never heard a better speaker for $3k ever. They're not as good as the latest series, but they can't be had that cheap.

If I had to pick another, it'd be the Dynaudio Special 25's used, or the B&W 805 Signature. They're not as much speaker, but at least you won't lose your butt when you decide to get back to the big leagues.

toobluvr · « **Reply #18 on:** 22 Nov 2006, 04:28 pm »

Quote from: jermmd on 22 Nov 2006, 01:52 am

Zybar has just gotten new Vandersteen 5A's. See if he'll sell you his Salk Veracity HT3's. If you can get them, you'll be very happy. They may already have been sold though. I can't remember.

At 85 db sensitivity, hardly meets original poster's "more efficient" criteria, now does it?

JoshK · « **Reply #19 on:** 22 Nov 2006, 04:30 pm »

Hey Keith,

Been a while. Those Coincident speakers friend linked to sound really interesting, especially since you mentioned sensitive speakers. That they are and I've heard good things about them. But if you are keeping the Nuforce you don't exactly need sensitivity.

You might seriously consider the Ronins for $2200 that someone is selling here. I just wrote a review of them since I had an audition pair. They are pretty damn good and hard to beat in this price range.

I might also consider the SP Tech speakers that someone mentioned.

Cheers,
Josh