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Sonus Faber Amati Homage vs Thiel 7.2

I currently own the SF Amatis, and a pair of 7.2 have come up for sale. I know the Amatis are worth more retail than the 7.2s. But for me the retail value dosen't always reflect how much I like the sound. I understand the 7.2 are Thiel's top flagship speaker and the Amatis are SF's 2nd. I am unable to audition the 7.2's because there's not any retailers selling them, and I don't know anyone with a pair.
Has anyone compared these 2 speakers? I know it's hard, but can someone please describe the sound of the 7.2s to me.
After reading a Sterophile review of the Amatis back in 99, I knew I had to have a pair, and after getting them, I was pleased, but still think that speakers could sound better. My main problem with the Amatis is that although they're clear, very dynamic (can hear every sound), have exceptional imaging, and can be played very loud, I find the mids quite thin. Thin in that everyone's voices seem higher than they are. I guess I lik the dark rich Barry White sytle vocals.
Because of my percieved lack of mid range in the vocal abilities of the Amatis, I thought the 7.2s might do better in this category.
Your comments are appreciated.

Thanks
puunda
jj2468
280 posts
 
Puunda,
I've heard the Amatis many times and I own the Guarneris. I believe FrankC is right on the money. Sonus Fabers are capable of wonderful midrange. IMHO, borrow a really good tube preamp and amp and perhaps a different source and report back. I realy don't think Thiel will get you in the direction you are asking for and I'd look at the electronics before the room. Also, Cardas Golden Cross is not the right cable. If you want to try a Cardas cable, try the golden reference - it is much better. But, you may not need the cardas as a tone conditioner with a good amp and preamp, which the Amatis can really make good use of.
tom_hankins
850 posts
 
If a balanced, seamless, presentation with clean and very detailed (never thin in my system) midrange is what your after the 7.2s would be worth keeping on your list.
tda2200
151 posts
 
Hi

I had demo session with the amatis and the really seem to be very picky with the components that is used to drive them
with my former STOCK tact millennium the sound was unbareble.
Also heard it with gryphon solid state amp and it diddent sound very good eather.

The amatis like tube amps or maybe somthing like class A accuphase amp.

I think with the right amp the can bring you to tears to the eyes
the have been in my mind ever since i heard them.

The amatis a not very forgiven in the higs thats for sure .

If i where you i would try them with a good tube amp before selling them.

eny way just my 2 cents.

regards
audiolui
280 posts
 
I listened to the Amatis in a dealer set up. I think Air-tight tube amps were used and the sound was quite good with actually very nice midrange as well. It wasn't thin at all. I guess you just have some system matching issues.

That said, I am currently using 7.2. Thiel 7.2's sound is different. Overall, it is a very balanced speaker. It has better dynamics and bass impact IMO. Yes it can sound analytical depending on components upstream as it is also a very revealing speakers.

I agree with others that you should try different electronics first and dont' buy the Thiel without audition. You either love or hate Thiel sound, but not in between.
henry_chinaski
1 posts
 
Did you set them up, or the dealer? The reason I ask is that proper placement really makes them shine. Sumiko, the importer of the sonus faber speakers teaches their dealers how to how to set them up according to the room they are in. It takes a little while, but is well worth the time. If not, give Sumiko a call. I can speak from experience. They really dialed mine in. Good luck.
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