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YG Acoustics or Dynaudio

I have been using a pair of PSB M2 monitors since 2004 but have recently upgraded some equipment and am thinking new speakers. Right now my focus is on either YG Acoustics 'Carmels' or Dynaudio 'Confidence' C1s or C2s. One limitation is that my present speakers are close--35 cm-- to the front wall and I'm stuck with that kind of positioning in an L-shaped room. The Carmels are a new model and I can't find a review; but the C1s have been highly praised especially in a smaller room. I would appreciate any relevant advice, particularly about YG Carmels which have some radical features. My system comprises Bryston 4BSST amp, Bryston preamp, EMM Labs XDS1 CD player, Oracle tt, with Kimber Select interconnects and cables.
oeiras99

Showing 8 responses by oeiras99

oeiras99 OP
27 posts
 
Thanks for the useful comments so far. The problem of distance from the front wall is my biggest worry as I chose the PSBs because they port at the front and, spiked, deliver a tight and adequate bass. The Dynaudio Confidence C1s port at the back which could be an issue. I don't know about the YGs but have read that they can have difficulty filling a large room with high-level sound, which gives me pause. For that price, I would expect a speaker to be limitless. However, they are supposed to be champs of transparency. My dealer is arranging an audition soon. Of course there is no comparison in price between the Dyns and Carmels as the YGs are over twice the price of the C1s.
oeiras99 OP
27 posts
 
Under other circumstances I would consider the Magicos but I am comparing two speakers at much different price points because the Confidence C1s and Carmels have been recommended to work well close to the front wall. My PSB M2s do that very well, and are very impressive, especially on female vocals (e.g. Diana Krall and Holly Cole) but maybe the others would be an upgrade.
oeiras99 OP
27 posts
 
Jaybo and Mapman raised the possibility of PSB Synchrony as being lower cost competitors to the YGs and Magicos. Since I am already using PSB Platinum M2s (which are the top of the PSB line), would there be any advantage to change speakers? This is an interesting point since in my opinion the PSBs punch far above their weight.
oeiras99 OP
27 posts
 
There seems to be some confusion about price differences between speakers being discussed. I am comparing the YG Carmel at $18k and the Dynaudio Confidence C1 at about $7.5k. These particular speakers have been recommended, thus the discussion. From comments so far (see Raquel), I am leaning toward the C1s, price notwithstanding. I like 2-way monitors which suit my room better than large speakers, like Magico floor standers.
oeiras99 OP
27 posts
 
My dealer who has knowledge of my system recommended the YGs; Dynaudios were recommended by a trusted audiophile friend. Also, the review in Stereophile indicates that the C1s can benefit by proximity to the wall, as quoted: 'Dynaudio is correct in that the C1 is relatively easy to place in relation to room boundaries. This was a bigger issue in my small room, where being able to place them near the front and sidewalls returned huge benefits in sonic holography.'
oeiras99 OP
27 posts
 
Wise words Jaybo. I intend to take my time and audition seriously. Meantime I'll enjoy some music.
oeiras99 OP
27 posts
 
Living in Europe, as I do, some of these esoteric (to my knowledge) brands are not available. To avoid import duty, I am favoring the Dynaudios, made in Denmark. However, I am now also considering the US-made Thiel 3.7s, for their looks and, according to the manual, ability to play close to the long wall.
oeiras99 OP
27 posts
 
Thanks to everyone who took the time to contribute to this discussion. I received lots to think about before dropping the big bucks, or euros.
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