Audiogon member suggestions for a speaker that sounds good at low volume!!!


I am looking for speaker suggestions (new or used) in the $1000-$4000 range that sound good at low volume (45-50db).  I listen to mostly jazz and classical music late at night while everyone else is sleeping so the volume is low.  My current speakers are Vandy 2CE sigs and they sound good at higher volume levels but I listen most critically, at low volume and hope to do better.  My amp is a Classe CT-2300 with a Classe CP-800 preamp. I have a larger room 20ft X 20ft but seldom listen to music loud. Monitor of floor standing is fine.  

I understand the limitation of human hearing (Fletcher-Munson Curve) and also an appreciation of the synergy of speaker design, speaker placement and room effects.  Anyone out there have a speaker they like at low volume?

Thank you in advance.


128x1282tuby
Generally speaking I think higher efficiency speakers play better at low volumes vs inneficient speakers. Though I wouldn't underestimate the influence of a power amplifier. For example, I was very impressed by the Modwright KWA-150SE which has excellent inner detail, resolution and control at low volumes. Plus that amp sounds tube-like and musical, and is very well built. Just the addition of an amp like the Modwright might very well give you the sound you're looking for.
I like my ESL’s. Quad 2905’s. But there is a cautionary thread currently active. Still, with your taste in volume, you might be just fine, as I am.

Don't let people tell you that you should listen to music loud. So what if you have better hearing? They're your ears!
I too prefer lower listening levels. 65 Db is perfect for me
I use near field Tannoy FSMs in a 14 x 18 room pulled 30"
off the back wall and using a 1-1.2 arrangement ratio.
Sounds pretty good to me even at the lower volumes.
The points mentioned about hi efficiency and quality power
merit attention.