Speaker thoughts for McIntosh Tube setup

[Gimes]

Thanks, guys. I'm going to give a listen to several of these before I buy. Specifically the MLs. My feeling is that I won't like them as much if they are you described, but I'll give them a shot. I'm anxious to hear the Dyn's, and I will also check out the other brands you mentioned.

I really appreciate the responses.

[Mr Peabody]

I personally like electrostats better than Maggies. What kept me from buying electrostats back when was the lack of the physical sense you get from traditional speakers. Electrostats are something magic with tubes though.

You don't normally see me recommend B&W but our local Mac dealer drives B&W with the Mac and it's the best combo I've heard with Mac. Better than ARC or Classe, IMO.

I would highly recommend an audition or further research of the Golden Ear. Only rave reviews and the couple times I've heard them they did sound good. The powered woofers should make light work for your amp as well. In addition, the powered section can be controlled to your desire and room size. If you don't want powered bass GE also has passive models. Reputation for serious bang for the buck.

My Revels are Performa 2 series and needed more drive than my 100 watts tube monoblocks. Revel now has the newer Performa 3. The 3's are not my cup of tea but some seem to like them.

My tube amps did drive my Dynaudio Contours fine. The sound was warm but had it's appeal, to me any way. I feel the Excite would be less warm than my Contour and shouldn't present a problem for your amp to drive.

I do like Klipsch, would love to have space for LaScalla or even Cornwall to play with. However, for the money your other options would provide better refinement and detail.

In the end though it's about what draws you in and keeps you happy in the listening position. All are good options but as you stated, all would sound quite different.

[blackraven]

Gimes, keep us posted on what you like or buy. When you go speaker shopping, bring your music, amp and preamp along to try with the speakers. Most shops will let you do it if you are serious about buying.

[Gimes]

Thanks for all the advice, guys. I haven't been able to listen to anything yet, as I've been busier than normal at work. But I've done a little online research and I think I've ruled out the LaScala, as much as it pains me to say. I do like the Thiels, but I've never heard them, so I'll wait and see there. Right now, my intention is to audition the Dyn Excite, Thiel TT1 and the ML Ethos. I will definitely update this thread when I make a decision.

[blackraven]

Also give a listen to the Thiel CS2.7. The CS series have a nice neutral sound with good air and transparency. They would pair well with tubes.

[Gimes]

Well, probably not my final purchase, but I stubbled upon a GREAT deal for a pair of Klipsch Heresy III's today. Gonna pick them up this weekend. Can't wait to hear the heritage speakers with the tube gear! I will still be auditioning the above sets, and I'll look into the CS2.7s, br. Really excited about the Heresy's though.

[Mr Peabody]

I had a set of Heresy III, they were fun but for music I think you'll find yourself wanting to add a sub. I used them the longest in a second system where I biamped them using a Bryston 3Bst on the 12's and a Parasound HCA-750 on the horns. The 750 had gain controls so I balanced the Heresy to my liking, and I did have a sub. That system slammed pretty hard.

If you like Klipsch the newer Reference line has smoother sounding horn drivers.