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Replacing Thiel 2.2's, Need Monitor Suggestions

I am completely satisfied with my Thiel 2.2's. They are transparent, detailed (sometimes unforgivingly so), incredible imaging, and solid as rocks. Unfortunately, my girlfriend thinks they are clunky looking and since we're getting new furniture she is wondering if there is anything smaller I could replace them with.

I should be able to get $900 out of them to put toward some smaller speakers. I'm considering monitors, or anything smaller and nicer looking (possibly a slim floor stander with a nice veneer.) I would prefer not spending more than $1000 on the speakers, and I don't mind buying used.

I am looking for the things that my Thiel's did well (detail, transparency, incredible imaging, large body of sound) as opposed to overly warm-sounding speakers.

You can use the links below my username to view my system. I'm still getting started, and my next upgrade will be getting a separate amp. Any suggestions for an amp to complement your suggested speakers would also be appreciated. My budget for the amp is no more than $400 used.

Thanks for any suggestions, and please don't answer with "lose the girlfriend." It's not helpful. All other advice is very appreciated.

-Dusty
128x128heyitsmedusty
unsound
6,115 posts
 
Cheers! Good for you! Now that you've regained your manliness go get a proper POWER amp. On a more serious note, I suspect your new floor arrangement might be sounding better, yes?
heyitsmedusty's avatar
heyitsmedusty OP
185 posts
 
I actually just got an Adcom GFA-545 which still isn't where I'd like to be, but it's a huge step up from running off of the receiver. I got it for $75 used, so it's an acceptable and affordable crutch. If I were to buy another amp, my price limit would be $300 used.

The new arrangement sounds SO much better. I think the main difference was getting more soft things into the room. The couch is now fully upholstered (it was leather before), there is another upholstered chair in the room, and the flat wall to the right of the right speaker now has a multi-faceted bookshelf which is working as a good diffuser.

I wish I could spend more than $300 on an amp r
esteborino's avatar
esteborino
37 posts
 
why don't you try a smaller pair of thiels...they'll have the same sound and perhaps your GF will be happier with the smaller footprint. The cs1.6 and the older cs1.5 are a lot smaller...at least height wise. They have all the virtues of monitors (transparency, imaging, soundstage etc etc) but with MORE bass. Subwoofers are ugly IMO. If you get the fancier veneers she might even take you out to dinner! Also, within your budget you could probably do an even trade used and be able to buy a McCormack DNA 0.5 for about $500 if you shop around. I use a B&K st-140 that I am very happy with (but yes it could be improved) that can be bought for about $250 used here. Take care and cheers to you for treating your lady with consideration!
esteborino's avatar
esteborino
37 posts
 
I guess I just second the recommendations for the smaller thiels. Didn't read the all of the posts. I apologize for my redundancy.
stevecham
3,298 posts
 
Stick with Thiel and go for the 1.6s.
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