Best analytical loudspeakers for strings (midrange)?


Folks-

I am interested in comparing Wilson Yvettes (can obtain a discounted price, and which I have used in my house) versus Paradigm Persona 3F or 5F passive loudspeakers.

My system now combines McIntosh preamplifier, hybrid amplifier, PS Audio DirectStrem DAC, and transport, TIDAL server. My listening room is 300 square ft and has been optimized sound insulation (absorption and reflection tested using an audio engineer).

Although I love rock, electronica, jazz, and classical music, I want to be able to have high-resolution separation of different strings (violin, viola, cello, bass) in orchestral music, or even as solo instruments. I am a scientist, and I want to listen to high resolution ("clinical") sound.

Any advice? I have Wilson WattPuppy 7's and love the resolution, but I want to upgrade these speakers. I know that Vandersteen, Magico, etcetera are all great speakers as are many other brands, but I have limited my options at this point in time. 

Are the Paradigm Persona loudspeakers a better alternative to the Wilson Yvettes for string resolution?

Thanks in advance for any advice. - Gerry


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Showing 3 responses by shadorne

+1 Harbeth. Also add ATC to your shortlist. ATC are used by Telarc. Also used by jazz artists like Diana Krall as well as film, television and broadcast. Countless Universities and conservatories like Peabody Conservatory use them.
-1 Elizabeth - you just haven’t heard really good speakers if you think headphones are better for hearing detail.
@gerryah30

There is a simple reason speakers are always better - studios use them to mix and master. So the reverberant energy in your room is part of what you are intended to hear by those doing the production. 60% direct and 40% indirect sound is typical. Your hearing is sophisticated enough to use reflected energy to hear details in the timbre (decay). Concert halls are designed to be reverberant because of the way we hear.

If you can check out ATC speakers you will discover that a large portion of music has been mixed or mastered on them.

http://atcloudspeakers.co.uk/client-list/