Need Help With a Bright System

"I spent a long time researching and coming up with the decision to buy these speakers"

And when you demo'd them did they have the same edge that now annoys you ? If not what was the partnering equipment in the demo ? Go buy it, or start saving.

If you did not demo them, but bought them on the basis of reviews then I think it's time to accept that you made an unfortunate choice, sell them and move on. You might lose a little money on the deal, but you'll be better off in the long run.

You could sink a whole lot more money and time into power conditioners, cables, outlets, vibration control, and other stuff, that in my experience delivers the last <5% of the sound, but it will not cure a terminally bright system.

If you really like imaging and want to lose the brightness I'd suggest a used pair of Spica Angelus, or Tc-60s, or if you can stretch a pair of GMA Europas.

I think what some of you may be forgetting is that the NAD amplifiers I'm using right now are not mine; I've made no financial obligation towards these amps or CD player, they're just something for me to use while I save up for my own components. Yes, these speakers are bright and are definitely harsh on rock music--with solid-state amps. I'm not ready to sell these speakers before listening to them on a tube amp. No, I did not get to audition these speakers because I bought them used off of Audiogon.

The_kid: I understand what you mean about getting fatigued by listening to these speakers, but did you hear them on solid state gear or tube gear? A HUGE part of having the “right” system is correctly matching the components. I doubt these speakers would have gotten such good reviews if they sounded bright and harsh with every single type of gear out there. I'm still going to try a tube amp with these speakers, which I think will really make them sing. However, if you're a semi-headbanger like myself, the tube amps just can’t deliver that extended bass and attack that are a big part of that kind of music. But I'm certainly willing to accept that trade off to get rid of this brightness, especially because of the milky smooth and airy midrange that you get from tubes.

the nad components are 'by design'made to be neutal. they are also compatible with most convential dynamic driver loudspeakers, including yours. at least for now try other interconnects(not necc ones that are more epensive)and try lots of cds to make sure your brightness isn't just a software issue. the triangles do prefer low watt tube designs, but going that route is only going to cause more problems. wire differences are similar inherently inportant, if your pre amp does not have tone controls to adjust for different room conditions

If you must use these speakers (which are the problem, IMO) trade the gear for lush tube gear, like Cary, or maybe contact Kevin Deal @ Upscale Audio and see what he says. Your speakers are too ruthless in the presence range (guessing 2-6khz).

Using gear like these Triangles or horns is like preparing sushi. All of the ingredients must be fresh and of the highest quality possible or it won't be palatable. at all. While it's possible to make these speakers work, it is doing to be WORK doing so. This is why most are suggesting different speakers.

For now, think like a suhsi chef. Every piece of gear (including room treatments) isn't going to have to be synergetic and hand picked (and tweaked!) to match those Triangles.

Good luck!
Aaron

Jwglista,

I heard them on Cary Tube and Electrocompaniet Solid State Gear. Something was just missing as the speakers sounded analytical and mechanical. Again, the imaging was impressive but the dynamics and musicality was just NOT there.

Also, I disagree that tube amps cannot deliver extended bass and there is not shortage of extension in my set up. Please see my system here on Audiogon.

Please keep in mind that reviews only go so far. I have read tons of reviews that I disagree with and some that I agree with. Maybe the reviewer did not listen for extended periods and I am sure he/she used only good recordings; not rock & roll. I agree with you though as it all comes down to system synergy which you are now missing.

I would reach out to other Triangle owners and see what their setups consist of. However, I again do not think that you will get what you are looking for out of the Antal XS speakers. My prediction is they will be on Audiogon in the Classifieds within 6 months after trying different combinations. Maybe I am wrong but I doubt it.

Good Luck!

Chris