New Initial Setup - Speaker Question

[HiFiNewbNY]

Hey everyone, new user here. I’ve been lurking and reading for a bit and I’m finally taking an initial leap into a set-up, but trying to do it on a budget.

So, my medium term goal here is the following:

- Fluance record player (have it)
- Tube Amp
- Streamer (I’ve got my eye on the new Node)
- 2 Speakers

This will go in my living room (~ 15’ x 30’) and also hook up to the TV (through the Node).

I was recently given a Pioneer SX-3700 which I had cleaned and looked over at my local shop (runs well) and will be using for the short term in advance of splurging on a tube amp.

Now for the question. I need to buy speakers and have been presented with the following. Looking for thoughts and/or suggestions:

- Rega RS5 - Used $400 from private seller, good shape and sound good
- KEF Q150 - New $500 from local shop
- Monitor Audio Silver Series 6 - Used $750 from local shop

I’m not trying to spend way too much here and while I think Rega is the way to go in terms of quality to value (with MA as the higher end option and KEF as the new option), I’m afraid I’m jumping at the lower cost and not being smart.

Thoughts?

Thank you in advance!

 

[Dswankey]

Hey everyone, new user here.

I was recently given a Pioneer SX-3700 and will be using for the short term in advance of splurging on a tube amp.

...I need to buy speakers and have been presented with the following. Looking for thoughts and/or suggestions:

- Rega RS5 - Used $400 from private seller, good shape and sound good
- KEF Q150 - New $500 from local shop
- Monitor Audio Silver Series 6 - Used $750 from local shop

Welcome to AK!!!!

I can't speak to pricing so hopefully others who come along can as to whether they are good or not.

I can speak to that you're in a fortunate position in that you can potentially demo the speakers before purchase which I would strongly suggest.

If allowed to demo then let your ears be the deciding factor also be sure to check the individual specs (Sensitivity & Impedance) for each speaker so that whatever you choose will be compatible when you migrate to a tube amp

 

[HiFiNewbNY]

Welcome to AK!!!!

I can't speak to pricing so hopefully others who come along can as to whether they are good or not.

I can speak to that you're in a fortunate position in that you can potentially demo the speakers before purchase which I would strongly suggest.

If allowed to demo then let your ears be the deciding factor also be sure to check the individual specs (Sensitivity & Impedance) for each speaker so that whatever you choose will be compatible when you migrate to a tube amp

Thank you. Makes sense and I’ll definitely take advantage of that to the best degree I can.

 

[MacSic]

Welcome to AK!!!!

...
If allowed to demo then let your ears be the deciding factor also be sure to check the individual specs (Sensitivity & Impedance) for each speaker so that whatever you choose will be compatible when you migrate to a tube amp

The logical way is to choose the speakers according to the room and the type of sound you want and the budget, then comes the choice of the amplifier(s) according to the load. Matching is always essential

 

[HiFiNewbNY]

The logical way is to choose the speakers according to the room and the type of sound you want and the budget, then comes the choice of the amplifier(s) according to the load. Matching is always essential

Maybe here’s where I need some additional assistance.

The room size, as noted, is about 15’x30’, with the speakers near the wall on the 15’ side. While being able to handle movies, the primary music will be very eclectic (from jazz and classical to pop and r&b). I don’t need a bass heavy reproduction, but all around quality of reproduction with spatial distinction is important. I can/will definitely tailor my later amp purchase to the speakers (unless the bug bites so hard I upgraded both), but want to make sure the pair I get now are flexible enough to start with the SX-3700 and then move forward with my future pursuits. This is another reason why I thought the two used pairs made sense (higher quality and capability even if I’m taking on second owner risk). While the MA may be a bit higher entry cost, they would then further tie into a local shop relationship if there are issues (but is that worth double the cost?).

i love the beauty of all the different variables and options available in this hobby, but it does make it difficult.

 

[goodolpg]

Seems to me if you go with a tube amp you may need to get a preamp as well (or an integrated tube amp). Looks like your Pioneer does not have pre out/main in capabilities SO unless the turntable you use has an internal preamp you will need a preamp to use the turntable with a tube amp.
Plus if the tube amp does not have level controls you'll need a preamp for volume and source settings.

 

[HiFiNewbNY]

Great points. My Fluance turntable does have a built in preamp, but I may either upgrade with a separate and/or upgrade the turntable in the future (after upgrading to an amp). I’ve been considering those as potential long-term moves.