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KEF, ProAc, Monitor Audio and others

I've been busy listening to speakers in the 10-15,000 price range and even convinced my wife to join me (not an easy job).  Recently, I've heard the Vandersteen
Treo CT, ProAc D48r,KEF Reference 3, Monitor Audio PL300ii (briefly), Vienna Acoustics Liszt and several others.  I appreciate all the suggestions on this board.  

Some observations: I liked the Vandersteen but would love to consider one of their higher end models.  However, as I posted before, the local dealer doesn't carry those models and the nearest dealer who does is several hundred miles away.  Also, the necessity of electricity for the higher models is problematic for me. I really like the soundstage, imaging and musicality of the KEF Reference 3.  Would like to hear the KEF Reference 5, even though it would stretch my price range, but can't find it at any local dealer.  Some say the 3 is actually better so they don't carry the 5. Didn't like the Liszt compared to the KEF. Plan to hear the Monitor Audio again since I was impressed during a brief listening. Also, I've been told that Revel-- and possibly others--will introduce new models in January at the CES.  Right now, the KEF 3 is at the top of my list and my wife reached the same conclusion.  May wait until January to see what's announced at the CES.  
brownsf
schubert
4,867 posts
 
bo1972 ,
As a audiopile for 50 years I agree with all you say .
Can you mention a few brands(if there are any) that get 3d’ish at no more
than $6000 new or used besides Monitor ? Not that I won’t buy Monitor, I had a MA5 I loved back in the 70’s when they came into USA .
I live in a condo where near-field is all that is possible and listen to Classical
Music . Heavy on symphonic . And have been to thousands of concerts, a local dealer uses me for a "ear" on classical music and I did sell it for 3 years .
stebrn's avatar
stebrn
11 posts
 
Also, bo1972, what electronics do you need to get your 3D?  I have an Audio Research VT 130SE amp and LS22 pre amp.  Do you have any idea whether  the Monitor Audio PL300ii produce that effect with my equipment (or does the room and speaker placement make the difference)?
As Schubert said, what other speakers would you suggest?  My price range is up to around $15,000 (although I'm going to hear the Paradigm Persona 5 this week and that's a little more).  
stfoth
435 posts
 
Bo won't tell you anything.  He is the only one in the entire world who can create a "3D" system.  Everyone else is a mere child fumbling down paths that lead nowhere.  Even if you have all the best equipment with what he affectionately refers to as "3D DNA," he is the only one who can configure them appropriately.  He has recently alluded to DSP correction being part of the secret sauce.  His passion is admirable, but---oh, that presentation....

Good luck.
audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
1,621 posts
 
Sfoth,  I have over 30 years professional system setup experience, while working at two of the biggest A/V stores in NYC Sound by Singer and Innovative Audio, and then 14 years at my own shop.

Bo is just plain crazy, any good system when setup properly can recreate a  three dimensional sound stage. Height has more to do with the physical size of a loudspeaker. 

The keys to createing a 3d system is to make sure your speakers are positioned correctly, reflections are addressed, power conditioning, power cables and vibration isolation is used. 

To help create a 3d image, Acoustic System Resonators work wonders so do Shakti Hologpraphs.  Make sure the speakers are three to five feet from the back wall if possible. 

A new trick is the Isoacoustics footers which help in image focus and bass tightness.

Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ
bo1972's avatar
bo1972
2,626 posts
 
Dave is talking from his world in audio. So his ideas are based on his insight and knowledge.

We have met many people at home who spend a lot of money on acoustic panels and they still had many issues. With our Statement Audio Pro-measurement the results are so much more effective.

You always will need amps, sources and speakers who can create a holographic 3D stage well. Most products do not own the right techniques and properties to create it.

And a person who want to sell Isoacoustics footers to create a 3D stage is insane. We are Stillpoints dealer and we love them. And they can make a 3D stage even better. But it will not create a 3D stage when the system has not the right properties.
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