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audio newbie question

I don't currently have a good stereo... and the logical thing to do in shopping for a system seemed to be to start with the speakers.

So I've been listening to as many speakers as I could, and so far I'm leaning toward the Dynaudio Audience 72 or the System Audio 1270. I've heard the following speakers: Magnepan 1.6, Thiel 1.5 & .5, numerous B&W up to $1500USD, Proac Studio 125, Paradigm Studio 100 & Monitor 7, Meadowlark Kestrels, Triangle Celcius, Martin Logan Aerius, Quad 988, Tannoy Revolution 2, Klipsch RF3, Mirage, Boston Acoustic, Dynaudio Audience 72, & System Audio 1250 & 1270 (believe me, I'm getting tired). I'm still planning on auditioning the JMLabs & Vandersteens.

Anyway, my question: Is there anything else I should consider (I'm trying to stay under $2K for the speakers - new or used)? I'm starting to lean toward used, since it seems to be a much better value... only problem is my lack of experience with most speakers. I'm also thinking that at the price range I'm looking at, I'll need a subwoofer (I like very tight bass, but with weight... not boomy!). Should I go with a less expensive option and get the subwoofer up front?

BTW, I listen to everything from jazz & folk to electronic & pop to rock & even heavy metal. I like crisp imaging and good dynamics... and a large sweet spot. I also don't know what electronics to get, so I'll take suggestions on that as well (trying to stay under $1600 for that). I'll work on the source at a later date. Thanks in advance for the advice.

Dennis
eeerie1
phasecorrect's avatar
phasecorrect
2,013 posts
 
You have done some very good "leg work"...alot of good choices...and to be honest...you have pretty much hit most of the bases...outside of Vandersteen...although auditioning as many speakers as possible is advisable...it is impossible to hear "everything under the sun"...I was in the same boat...pick the best shop in your area...make a good choice...which sounds like you will...and enjoy! My .02...used original KEstrals for around $750...dont need stands..
eeerie1 OP
43 posts
 
I think all of the speakers I've heard can benefit from a dynamic musical sub. Although some have such a loose bass that they cannot be helped. By the way, I don't have a dedicated listening room, so these speakers would have to integrate into my living room. Also, any thoughts on electronics?

Dennis
foreverhifi
229 posts
 
Just incase you were, for some reason,considering the Klipsch's, the SB 1's and 2's are better than the RF series in my oppinion.
Besides that however, if you are going for higher end speakers in the end, DO be prepared to experiment with different gear/set up for best results ultimately! YOu'll not get it on the first try likely...most never do. NOthings of course perfect, but you will get much better resluts with time, dedication, and patience. good luck
eeerie1 OP
43 posts
 
I was considering the Klipsch, but I prefer the sound of the Dynaudio... hard for me to describe what I like. I also really did like the Thiel 1.5, but the "soundstage" (don't know if that's the proper term) seemed very distant. Also, female voices seemed kind of flat to me (again, it's difficult to describe sound!

I am already understanding what foreverhifi2000 is talking about, which is why I'm leaning toward used equipment. I figure I can more easily experiment with used equipment (if I choose wisely, I can probably just sell whatever doesn't fit and break even).

Dennis
warrenh's avatar
warrenh
2,286 posts
 
That's interesting about the Thiels. One of the things that I thought was, truly, wonderful with that speaker, was the reproduction of the female voice. One of the best; to me. I guess that's what makes the audio world go 'round.
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