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Dynaudio 1.3SE question

I'm looking for a pair of speakers, and was considering the Dynaudio 1.8Mk2 (great speaker), but have heard that the 1.3SE is much better (despite being a monitor). If I go with the 1.3SE, I will go used, so I don't want to bother my local dealer to listen to them. So, I have two questions:

1. Is the 1.3SE really that much better than the 1.8Mk2?

2. How does the 1.3SE compare with the Merlin TSM-M? I've never heard a Merlin, but have heard many good things, and am curious.

My music preferences include jazz, folk, rock, heavy metal, electronic... you name it. I actually live in an apartment, so the speakers have to fit into my living room. I'd eventually like to add a sub to the system, for the extra low end. I don't have electronics yet, because I'm waiting to decide on a pair of speakers. When I decide, I will try to build around the speakers. By the way, I also like "fast" speakers (at least I think that's the term)... in other words, I like a speaker that can articulate fast transients in the music, particularly quick percussion beats. I also like nice separation and "air" (it is difficult to describe sounds, isn't it?) and detail. I'd appreciate any input... by the way, this is a great resource for audio enthusiasts!

Dennis
eeerie1
dmichael
25 posts
 
I do not remember which model REL I listened to. It was probably the strata, but I can't say for sure. It was combined with the 1.3(non-se). Again, I did not like the combination. I have read here in another recent thread that the B&W805N integrates very well with the strata and storm. I would further investigate this match if you're intent on getting a sub/monitor system. Also, the 805 is front ported which may provide more flexible placement than either of the Dyn's. I agree with Kthomas that the 1.3 may not be any easier than the 1.8's to place. Depending on the room/furniture, pay attention to the port height, with the 1.8 it will be very close to the floor, 1.3 will be much higher(close to 3 feet). I think you may like the 805/REL best. Let us know if you get a chance to hear these paired.
eeerie1 OP
43 posts
 
Dmichael, do you have the 1.8's in a large area? How do you have them placed?

Dennis
keithr
950 posts
 
Dennis,

I haven't heard the BAT 300xSE which is the new integrated (priced from 4k-6k new depending on options--I would go for remote and SE pre so 5500). However, speaking to BAT, they think it is an excellent match for the S25s (what i was going to purchase) and were quite high on Dynaudio (and he was pretty brutally honest about stuff he liked/disliked). It has 150 watts of power, and apparently had no strain driving Thiel 7.2s. The BAT sound might take a bit of bite off the top end, as Dyns are truly know to be very detailed speakers (but definitely not bright). I used a Cary SLP98 as a pre for my 1.3SEs, and it worked very well I thought.

As far as the 1.8 vs the 1.3SE, it's not even close. The 1.3SE is the superior speaker. The 1.3SE is 88 into 6ohms, which isn't terribly tough on an amplifier, although 100watts is what I would pair them with.

BTW, I encourage you to scout out the new Avantgarde Solos---would be perfect for your musical tastes. Feell free to email me offline if you have other questions btw.

KeithR
cellorover
358 posts
 
The 1.3SE is probably one of their better speakers. It does not necessarily need a sub unless you want floor shaking bass or if your room is large, say more than 15 x 25 feet. At that point I suggest a REL and make sure you set it up correctly. Its bass response is accurate and quite good as is. Good stands will be important.
eeerie1 OP
43 posts
 
Thanks for all the responses. I ended up going with Green Mountain Audio Continuum 1.5's.

Dennis
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