YG Acoustics or Dynaudio


I have been using a pair of PSB M2 monitors since 2004 but have recently upgraded some equipment and am thinking new speakers. Right now my focus is on either YG Acoustics 'Carmels' or Dynaudio 'Confidence' C1s or C2s. One limitation is that my present speakers are close--35 cm-- to the front wall and I'm stuck with that kind of positioning in an L-shaped room. The Carmels are a new model and I can't find a review; but the C1s have been highly praised especially in a smaller room. I would appreciate any relevant advice, particularly about YG Carmels which have some radical features. My system comprises Bryston 4BSST amp, Bryston preamp, EMM Labs XDS1 CD player, Oracle tt, with Kimber Select interconnects and cables.
oeiras99
I heard the Carmel at an audio show in the Wash DC area a few months ago. The pair was set up in a large room, well away from the walls, and were powered by Solution solid state amplifiers.

I listened to the speakers for about two hours. This was an interesting experience. Almost immediately, I knew these were quite special speakers -- very clear, very detailed and capable of very accurately delivering the tonal qualities, harmonic structure and subtle "texture" of acoustic instruments. These speakers were also quite lively sounding in to an extent beyond the capabilities of MOST conventional dynamics speakers (somewhat like large horn systems). But, there was also a lean and somewhat dry and analytical quality to the sound (could be the electronics) even though the speakers were only slightly bright. I don't know if, in the long run that quality would become a major annoyance in the long run, but, its positive attributes make it worth finding out by extended listening and experimenting with other gear if you also find this speaker too dry sounding.

The speakers were also demonstrated in direct comparison with a pair of Magico V-2 speakers (moved into the exact same spot as the Carmel was located). Of course the speaker placement was optimized for the Carmel so the V-2 would have to be "lucky" to share the same ideal location. This was a very interesting comparison. The V-2 sounded warmer (more upper bass) which was a positive attribute, but, considerably less articulate (muddy sounding by comparison) and slightly less dynamic. Overall, I think I preferred the Carmel in this demonstration.

One of the more exciting and interesting prospects I have heard even though I have some serious reservations about the overall "gestalt" of the experience.
Between the two Dynaudio would get the nod from me. I think the C-4 is a very good speaker. That's why they hardly if ever come up used. There is a pair listed right now for $7900.
the yg acoustics with there very stiff alum cabinet are made to sound very fast, dynamic, with low coloration.
The highs are refine, the mids are smooth but eerss on the thin side of things. Bass is tight and articulate.
The dynaudio would be more musical in my opinion.
Not as tightly sounding as the YG but smoother, warmer and fuller sounding.
Just make sure you have enough power with the dyns. These really come alive with good power.
I've also heard the Magicos & while very high end sounding, i felt there were a bit too pricey for what they were giving in return.
Never heard the YG's but do own C1's. Depending on your room size and seating position both Dyn's are great speakers. That being said my room is approx 12' X 26'. Speakers on the long wall (I have no other choice). At my Dyn dealer the C2's kick butt compared to the C1's. But in my listening position at my home I need near field. When I had the C2's in my home it was very different. What I mean there was a wall of sound coming at me. Could I get used to that?? I'm pretty sure I could but stuck with the C1's. I did run with and without my Rel B3 sub. Either way in my home the C1's are great and the C2's were no where near as good sounding as at my Dyn dealer.

You really need to hear both yourself preferably in your home.
Good Luck
I heard the same Yg and Magico demonstration.

I thought both sounded very good, but was not sure of the value overall compared to other things I've heard for less, at least with teh Magicos. Not sure how much the YGs go for.

Yg was a bit leaner sounding to me than Magico.

Did not hear enough different kinds of music on them to get the total picture.

They are all good. Yg and Magico looked more different than they sounded to me. I think it mostly boils down to personal preference. I like Dynaudio a lot.