Replacements for AR 2ax

[JMiP]

So, a friend of mine has fallen in love with my (recapped) Acoustic Research 2ax speakers and wants to buy them from me. Well, I really like them too, but like many of y'all, I have a problem with settling down with just one system. One thing besides excellent sound, these guys have a high WAF score as my old lady likes the midcentury design/looks of them.

Question for the fine folks of this here community: what would be a suitable replacement, or what the heck, an improvement over the 2ax? Take WAF into consideration, or don't, I'm not your dad. I understand that AR 3a would be an improvement, but I don't have a thousand bucks to spend on speakers right now. Which is a bummer.

You can see in my signature what I'd be driving the speakers with. Right now, I'm using the Harman Kardon 730.

 

[alteclipsch]

If you want an equivalent to the AR3A, but without the issues of foam woofer surrounds and corroded potentiometers, with stunning looks, for a third of the price, look for KLH Model Fives. Cloth surrounds, switches rather than pots, and a bonus solid walnut beveled front bezel. Deep bass, great mids, crisp highs, they really have it all. Size is about the same as the 3A.

 

[RxDx]

Yeah, if you're changing speaker systems, opt for a 12" woofer. Good as the AR-2ax is,
it can't hit the lowest notes.

 

[Oerets]

Keep the speakers until you find another pair you like better.
Then sell them.

 

[SiliconTi]

KLH 5 would be on my list if I were you. I have the 3a, and they are fabulous, but just so expensive to buy.

 

[WaynerN]

You might like the Old Large Advents (aka OLA). If you like AR, but shy on funds, the AR-4x is one hell of a speaker. Its a 2-way and is smaller (little less bass, little less high f, but still has that AR sound and in a walnut cabinet with the vintage grill cloth and badges in place, has a large WAF, IMO.

'ner

 

[Tim D]

Keep the AR-2ax's and grab the rest too. Join the ranks of the rest of us hoarders. You can tell your buddy to get his own - nicely of course.

 

[alteclipsch]

You might like the Old Large Advents (aka OLA). The AR-4x is one hell of a speaker. Its a 2-way and is smaller (little less bass, little less high f, but still has that AR sound and in a walnut cabinet with the vintage grill cloth and badges in place, has a large WAF, IMO

Ditto on the AR4x. It's a helluva speaker, I still kick myself for selling mine in a stupid fit of purging.