Down side of speaker swop from AZ to Tonian Labs ?


Guys,

I have had my Acoustic Zen Crescendos for 5 years and love them but with the type of music I typically listen to, Cello, Acoustic Guitar and Violins, wondering if this make sense for a tube based system. Tonian Labs are more efficient and from what I have heard/read are they are much more transparent but hopefully that doesn't mean forward or bright.

Let me know what you think and my components are updated under my virtual system.

Thanks,
Wig

128x128wig
I agree with Duke and nonoise, Tonian Labs speakers are very special. Each time I would listen to them the sound would amaze me, especially since Tony never used big name gear in his rooms at the audio shows.

Now I had the TL-D1s at the same time I owned Duke's Jazz Modules. I sold the TL-D1s and have not regretted that decision, because Duke is also right up there with the best speaker designers. Had I not had Duke's speakers I could have lived happily with the TL-D1s, or most likely upgraded to another Tonian Labs model.
Did you guys hear the model with the 12" or 9" drivers? Could possibly save money going with the 9" but curious on the frequency response between the two and a 9" version on this site recently closed with a buyer.

Thanks,
Wig
The TL-D1 comes with (if I remember correctly) an 8" driver and the super tweeter. The one with the 12" driver is something to behold.

All the best,
Nonoise
Ah, my friend, you have an itch to scratch! That's a pretty radical adjustment if you follow through with it. When you want a change, you don't mess around. Fundamentally different experience between those two speakers, and imo not an absolute upgrade/positive move in all parameters. 

I am listening now to a speaker that is closer to the Tonian line and there are wonderful aspects to it, but also aspects that are forfeited in comparison to a speaker like the AZ. 

My recommendation? Own both!  :) 
Yes the 12" driver model I heard (12S?) was incredible. The source was an Acurus CD player and the amp was a non-descript integrated, and demoed in a hotel room with little in the way of room treatments. Tony played some drum tracks which certainly left me with the impression the musicians were in the room (my Jazz Modules did the same, and my ESLs I use now are a small step above). Vocals were also very realistic. Unfortunately I did not hear them on more complex tracks.