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Life after Aerial 10Ts...

I've had a pair of Aerial 10Ts for 12 years... I've loved them & they're still in great shape but... I got this audio-itch in need of scratching and I'm curious to hear what else is out there.

Sonically, what I've loved about the 10Ts is their full-range, wide and deep soundstage, and sense of in-the-room musicality... I don't listen at high levels too often. Music is an ecletic mix of jazz, rock, blues, folk, classical and bluegrass.

For all of you past owners of 10Ts... what did you replace them with and why? Regrets?

Financial constraints dictate that my curiousity must remain under $10k or so, so please don't mention the 20Ts... would if I could but just can't afford to go there.

Any insights are greatly appreciated!
Mike
mdconnelly
9rw's avatar
9rw
278 posts
 
I've heard the 10Ts two or three times at dealers with highly regarded associated equipment (Pass and Levinson). For the money, they were among the worst speakers I've ever heard. They lacked coherency and just didn't sound at all natural. The exaggerated treble and bass seemed to originate from very different places. Maybe they were defective or just weren't set up correctly, but I was amazed.

I suggest that you check out Von Schweikert, Vandersteen, Usher and Spendor -- just for openers. There are lots of speakers that will beat the Aerials. I think you'll be amazed. Happy hunting!
kehut's avatar
kehut
667 posts
 
Mike,

Get a listen to a pair of new Quad 2905's...They have all the virtues you are looking for. Yes, they have pretty decent dynamics too!

www.6moons.com/audioreviews/quad2/2905.html
tms0425
60 posts
 
I had Aerial 10T's for about 5 years and found them mostly very satisfying.

If you want to maintain the full range capability, dynamics, and decent soundstaging of the Aerials but with a much more accurate and satisfying presentation, you might take a look at SP Technology. Anything from the TimePiece 3.0 to big Revelations will easily best the Aerials in most areas. If I could go a little over $10k used, the Vandersteen 5A's would be my first choice. I always wish I'd bought the Vandies, though I love my Merlin VSM-MX's, especially with modest tube amps. Many postings and reviews here on the merits of both.

Good luck!

Tom
weiserb's avatar
weiserb
469 posts
 
9rw what speakers do you own?

I own the 10t's (see my systems) and I love them. I also own a pair of LR5 which you might like a bit better than the 10Ts. The LR5 are more effecient and sound a little brighter but in a good way. I am saving up for a pair of Watt Puppy 8's for my next speaker.I figure I will have the money in about 10 years, maybe sooner. There is a pair up here now for $ 18,000. They sound great and have a really nice small foot print. The Aerial 9's would also be a good speaker to consider. I like to purchase loundspeakers made in USA if possible (B&W 801's are nice though) and from a manufacturer that will support the speakers and not change models every week and not support older models (like Infinity)
opalchip
354 posts
 
Under 10k, true full range, and beautiful I would recommend listening to some of the Ushers.
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