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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
heyitsmedusty's avatar
heyitsmedusty OP
185 posts
 
Unsound -- Absolutely I'm going to be upgrading the amp. Any suggestions for an amp to go with the Meadowlarks (or the Thiels) would be appreciated.

-Dusty
czbbcl's avatar
czbbcl
1,699 posts
 
Quality power is more important than quantity. Thiel 1.6's may fill the bill for you as I believe they are smaller than your 2.2's but will still have that characteristic Thiel signiture.
unsound
6,115 posts
 
While the Meadowlark Kestral's and the Thiel 1.6's share many design principles, they have different amplifier requirements. I suggest you choose your speakers first then worry about the amp. BTW, if you really want "monitors", and I think my previous recommendations are better, but for less money you might want to consider a design that is not quite as similar but still somewhat close; used Spica TC 60's (these will need stands). Only the Thiels can recieve continued support from the manufacturer.
goatwuss
875 posts
 
Used quad 22L, perfect match, very transparent and open sounding, slim floorstander, looks nice
timrhu
2,778 posts
 
If the Thiels are what you like I'd suggest a used pair of 1.6s. The newer Thiels have a sleeker look than the 2.2s. There are a couple of pairs listed now. Hate to be so obvious but as Meadowlarks were suggested, I have a pair of Kestrel 2s for sale if your located in the Midwest. I've owned 3 different Meadowlark models and tweeter on the Kestrel 2s to be the quickest. I also owned a pair of Thiel 1.5s a few years ago but they were extremely bright IMO although the Acurus amp I was using at the time probably contributed. Good luck.
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