More challenging impedance loads would seem to go hand in hand with getting a more full range sound out of a smaller speaker design that will fit in well to most user's living/listening space.
For less full range applications especially in smaller rooms, there would appear to be more viable/affordable options in well designed higher impedance speakers.
However, the trend over time for most things is to become smaller and more efficient and also usually more cost effective and usable accordingly. The old paradigms have their strengths, but do not hold up well from an overall end user perspective these days. Too big, too expensive, and more maintenance required to keep things running well over time. But they can and often do sound really good. As do a lot of voltage based systems that leverage modern technology.
Its not valid to base decisions today on technology from 40 years ago. It is a different story now. THough I do love nostalgia including tubes and even Victrolas and have the Victorian styled home to potentially put these things in to prove it, the game continues to change, so one has to keep an eye on the ball!
For less full range applications especially in smaller rooms, there would appear to be more viable/affordable options in well designed higher impedance speakers.
However, the trend over time for most things is to become smaller and more efficient and also usually more cost effective and usable accordingly. The old paradigms have their strengths, but do not hold up well from an overall end user perspective these days. Too big, too expensive, and more maintenance required to keep things running well over time. But they can and often do sound really good. As do a lot of voltage based systems that leverage modern technology.
Its not valid to base decisions today on technology from 40 years ago. It is a different story now. THough I do love nostalgia including tubes and even Victrolas and have the Victorian styled home to potentially put these things in to prove it, the game continues to change, so one has to keep an eye on the ball!