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Preowned Focal 1027Be or New Focal Aria 936?

I'm considering purchasing a pair of Focal Aria 936 speakers that will be paired with an old McIntosh Mc2205 and C27 preamp. I've demoed the Arias at a dealer and really liked the way they sounded, but as is often the case, another contender has stuck it's head into the ring. Someone recently posted a pair of gently used Focal 1027Be speakers on Craigslist. I now find myself in a bit of a dilemma as to which ones to choose. Should I opt for the originally higher priced 1027's, or go with the newer technology of the 936's? The used 1027Be's are about the same, if not slightly less than the new Aria 936's. I have not yet heard the 1027Be's, but can anyone who has provide any guidance? 
radmobile
james_w514's avatar
james_w514
286 posts
 
I used to sell Focal and I'd  take the 1027Be without hesitation.
radmobile OP
4 posts
 
Thanks for the responses, that's what I was leaning towards too. 
contuzzi
295 posts
 
Hard to choose, because the 1027be was back when Focal was known to make kinda “bright” speakers. The 936’s are unreal... but if you have some super smooth/warm tube amp/preamp, is go with the Electra’s. Keep in mind resale on Electra’s will be worse for obvious reasons.
radmobile OP
4 posts
 
I ended up picking up the 1027Be's for $3000, so for less than the price of the Arias, and they sound fantastic. They are clear and detailed, but not really bright. It may have to do with being paired with my old Mac gear, since it has a pretty warm sound. I think I made the right choice, and ended up saving a grand or so. 
kosst_amojan
2,095 posts
 
 The 1027 is going to deliver significantly less bass than the 936. I'm not sure the better tweeter is worth the compromise in bass. Beyond that, I think the F cone and W cone have their own sound and virtues. I wouldn't buy one Focal product unheard because I liked another with completely different drivers. That Mac is going to tilt the sound up a little bit and I'd avoid a driver known for brightness like the Be. 
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