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need advice

Hi all,
Have an older system that I bought back in the late 80's
which I'd like to update for better quality sound.
The receiver is an Onkyo TX-840 60 watts per channel matched up with a set of early model Bose 401 floor standing speakers. Was wondering if you had any recommendations on upgrading my speakers (say maybe $600-$800 for a pair..used would probably provide best bargains)that would give me a better sound than the Bose 401s. Okay with staying with a two channel setup. Mainly listen to CDs and vinyl (all types jazz, rock, blues, etc).
I love the sound of the B&W and Paradigms, and I've some models used for that price range. Not sure if I should try bookshelf speakers on stands (since they might be cheaper). The room that the stereo is located is 20'x 12' with a sloping ceiling on one side that's two stories tall. Hardwood floors with rugs.
Thanks for your thoughts.
russman007
yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
2,678 posts
 
Nice pair of Spendor 3/5's listed here for $550. I had them years ago and you would not go wrong with them! Great little speaker!
seditious3
183 posts
 
You won't do better than those Spendors.
tls49's avatar
tls49
1,318 posts
 
Considering the size room and the 60 watt Onkyo, I definitely agree with Rlwainwright on the Tekton Mini Lore.
roscoeiii's avatar
roscoeiii
1,155 posts
 
The Lores and the Spendors will probably have pretty different sounds. I have heard similar speakers, but not these particular ones. I would guess the Lore is more forward, the Spendor more warm and laid back. Check reviews of each.
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
Since you are considering used speakers my suggestion is to buy locally since shipping speakers is expensive and, other than turntables, speakers are the most likely item to get broken in shipping. Check local audio outlets, Craiglist, and there is a function here on "my page" that allows you to sort Audiogon ads by locale.

The other benefit is that you will probably be able to hear before buying, and you have given no preferences in your posts. This has led to one gent suggesting a low efficiency mini speaker and the other a high efficiency floor stander. Both are right, because you have given no specifics as to what you are looking for.

That said, the tide has gone out on the 401s and pretty much anything in your price range is going to sound better.....but better to you, who knows?

Buy locally and consider some nice high efficiency speakers like Altec and Klipsh, and some more mainstream speakers, B&W, Paradigm, Snell, etc. If you put in a little time, you will find something that matches your taste and budget. IMHO, for me, a 240 square foot room with high ceilings would require larger, floor standing speakers, but your taste might certainly be otherwise.
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