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speaker recommendations?

BuffaloKeith

BuffaloKeith

New Member
Hello all! I am new to the forum and just started dipping my toes into high end home audio. I am putting together a vintage set up and I’m looking for suggestions on the appropriate speakers to pair with it.

I recently bought an MC240 amp and stumbled on a Sansui AU-7900 integrated amp at an architectural salvage shop of all places buried in a pile (wasn’t looking for it per se but it was cheap and needs minor repair), as well as a Pioneer PL-4 TT. I currently have a Pioneer VSX-820 Receiver with BOSE acoustimass speaker system with my existing “modern” set up I’ve been using for music/TV. It’s just the passive sub and a pair of cubes. They sound great but not sure if they’re the best option for this new set up.

I plan to pair the Sansui (as the pre-amp) with the McIntosh amp, and use the pioneer turntable as well as aux input for CD’s, IPad, etc. I’m only going to use this setup for music most likely on our 3rd floor vaulted (soon to be finished) attic and keep the “modern” receiver set up for TV, movies etc in our living room.

So my question is what do you recommend for speakers? Anything I should look for? Avoid? Necessary? I don’t plan to listen at a really high volume terribly often but want the option, I’m more concerned about general quality sound, reasonable price point (~$500-$1000) if possible, and simple. I’m open to vintage or modern. Any opinions about Sonus in the mix to listen in other rooms occasionally?

I also feel the need to point out that I acknowledge I’m like the guy going through a mid life crisis who just dropped stupid money on a sports car without knowing how to drive stick, LOL, so go easy on me and if this set up doesn’t make sense please tell me, I won’t be offended. I appreciate any advice and apologize if I posted this in the wrong section... Thanks!!

- Keith
 
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To answer this question, I'll ask you to answer these:
  • What type of music do you listen to?
  • How big is your room?
  • Any restrictions regarding size or style?
Since you said you're willing to consider vintage (and your money will obviously go a lot farther that way), it rarely makes sense to make specific recommendations, since we don't know what's available in your area. Instead, take a look at your favorite sale site (Craigslist, eBay, Facebook, Letgo, whatever) and see if there's anything that looks interesting. If so, google the make and model; there's a good chance you'll end up back here, since pretty much all audio equipment has been discussed here at one time or another. If it looks like it's something you want to pursue, post the pictures here (you can make a new thread) so we can give our opinion on their condition and if they're all original.

Speakers are great to purchase used, firstly because defects are usually obvious right away, and also because most repairs can be done by anyone with a little bit of DIY knowledge. Unfortunately, some owners tend to replace speaker parts that "go bad" (often this is just a case of the foam surround deteriorating, which can be easily repaired) with cheap and/or generic parts, which adversely affects the sound, and getting the correct replacements can sometimes cost more than the speakers are worth.

At any rate, I'd say that amp deserves an excellent set of speakers, although since it's only 40 watts/channel, you'll need something on the efficient side. Specs can be found online for almost anything; you'll probably want something with a sensitivity of at least 90dB with 1W at 1 meter (this is a standard measurement). This will probably rule out planars, electrostatics, and large vintage Infinity speakers, among others. However, don't be deceived by size; in most cases, large speakers require less power than small.

So start searching, and let us know what you find.
 
swechsler said:
To answer this question, I'll ask you to answer these:
  • What type of music do you listen to?
  • How big is your room?
  • Any restrictions regarding size or style?
Since you said you're willing to consider vintage (and your money will obviously go a lot farther that way), it rarely makes sense to make specific recommendations, since we don't know what's available in your area. Instead, take a look at your favorite sale site (Craigslist, eBay, Facebook, Letgo, whatever) and see if there's anything that looks interesting. If so, google the make and model; there's a good chance you'll end up back here, since pretty much all audio equipment has been discussed here at one time or another. If it looks like it's something you want to pursue, post the pictures here (you can make a new thread) so we can give our opinion on their condition and if they're all original.

Speakers are great to purchase used, firstly because defects are usually obvious right away, and also because most repairs can be done by anyone with a little bit of DIY knowledge. Unfortunately, some owners tend to replace speaker parts that "go bad" (often this is just a case of the foam surround deteriorating, which can be easily repaired) with cheap and/or generic parts, which adversely affects the sound, and getting the correct replacements can sometimes cost more than the speakers are worth.

At any rate, I'd say that amp deserves an excellent set of speakers, although since it's only 40 watts/channel, you'll need something on the efficient side. Specs can be found online for almost anything; you'll probably want something with a sensitivity of at least 90dB with 1W at 1 meter (this is a standard measurement). This will probably rule out planars, electrostatics, and large vintage Infinity speakers, among others. However, don't be deceived by size; in most cases, large speakers require less power than small.

So start searching, and let us know what you find.
Click to expand...

Thank you for the prompt reply!

to answer your questions, I generally listen to a mix of folksy indie rock and synth based electronic new wave music. I’m either going to set this up in a living room (13x13 w/8’ceilings) or our third floor that’s about 850 sq ft, angled ceilings (see pic) and about 9’ ceiling. Speaker size wise I’m open to anything, but if I set it up in the living room I may want to keep it small w/ bookshelf size speakers.

I understand there’s too many options to list here so I think I’m looking for general specs to look for when shopping around. I’m in Buffalo, NY and there’s plenty of vintage and relatively modern gear for sale pretty cheap. For example there’s a few folks selling a pair of Bose 901 MK VI with the equalizer and stands or $500, any thoughts on that?

anyway I appreciate the feedback!
 

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botrytis said:
They will need a refoam which is a pain on one driver, let alone 9 in the 901s. (So that is 18 drivers to refoam in total). Also, they need way more power than 40 WPC, more like 400.
Click to expand...

Thank you for the advice, that's the type of info I'm looking for when shopping around :)
 
Welcome to the forum. Asking for advice on what speakers to buy is the most requested thing on here. Unfortunately every response will usually get you another suggestion with so many speakers out there.
 
My advice would be that since used is an option, the choices increase - which is a good thing. There are also on-line sites that sell used gear - even here on AK(you have to join/pay to be a member).

I would sift thru the local classifieds and then target speakers that fit your budget and do some on-line searches for any reviews, or search this site for user comments. That way you can determine if the speaker 'fits' your tastes and preferences. I've had vg experiences buying used, and if they don't work out, then they can be re-sold with little to no loss since they've already taken the depreciation hit.

Just tossing ideas.
 
I've obviously got a sweet spot for these, but EPI 100 is a really great, multi-purpose, classic speaker. If you can find a pair that has been restored (so you don't have to) that would be something to look for. If you're into restoration, these speakers are not difficult in that regard. Someone's version of classic EPI speakers in a new product can be found by searching Human Speakers online. They look really nice and are in your price range.

As others have said, you're going to get a million answers here. And all/most will be rock solid suggestions. You might try going to some high-end stereo shops in your area just to see what's out there and what sound you tend to like. Speakers are the most subjective part of a hi-fi system. They all sound noticeably if subtly different. And you're the only one who needs to be happy with them.

good luck!
 
Crutchfield offers 30-day returns and carries a decent selection. I believe anything purchased through Amazon can also be returned.

There's a ton of choices available for under $1000.

Read a lot. Everyone hears differently and has different tastes. What I like or recommend you may end up hating.

Welcome to AK.

Stay away from Bose 901s. Their smaller speakers are actually "better" (just my opinion). The big 901s have followers, but few, and you need the Bose equalizer or else they are just end tables...
 
Hobie1dog said:
Welcome to the forum. Asking for advice on what speakers to buy is the most requested thing on here. Unfortunately every response will usually get you another suggestion with so many speakers out there.
Click to expand...

Thanks, I know it's a very subjective thing to advise on, so I suppose it's better to ask what to avoid or what won't work well perhaps? The advice on ratings for speakers that will work with my setup is great, same as pointing out the pitfalls of a few certain popular but problematic brands/models is helpful too. I'll know what sounds great when I hear it, I just want to avoid either getting something incompatible or known to have issues. With new I can always return it but obviously not with used/vintage.

Thanks again everyone!
 
Keith: I always suggest finding used Definitive Technology BP2000 series of speakers, usually around $500. The give a Large Scale Sound, have amplified built in subwoofers, narrow frontal area so they look small. I had 3 pair in my house last year. 2 of the people who heard them last year reached down and grabbed their arm and said, "goosebumps"...very few speakers can do that, especially for that kind of money.
M1ytubY.jpg
 
Ross6860 said:
I believe anything purchased through Amazon can also be returned....
Click to expand...

Make sure you read the fine print. I just bought a pair of klipsch speakers that were on sale at a smoking deal from an amazon retailer.

i decided that i wanted floors rather than bookshelves. I tried to return them and it would have cost me $130. I ended up keeping them.
Crutchfield ALL THE WAY.
 
Note that the OP's room is only 13x13. I suggest that it's too small for either the 901s brought up earlier or possibly even the BP2000s.
 
Bassmantweed said:
Make sure you read the fine print. I just bought a pair of klipsch speakers that were on sale at a smoking deal from an amazon retailer.

i decided that i wanted floors rather than bookshelves. I tried to return them and it would have cost me $130. I ended up keeping them.
Crutchfield ALL THE WAY.
Click to expand...
If you have Prime, and the items are listed as a Prime item, then returns are paid for by Amazon. I don't believe there are any exceptions to this.
 
Hobie1dog said:
Welcome to the forum. Asking for advice on what speakers to buy is the most requested thing on here. Unfortunately every response will usually get you another suggestion with so many speakers out there.
Click to expand...

Yep. Everyone has different tastes; it's almost like saying you want to buy a record, so what's a good one to start? You'll get literally hundreds of suggestions.
The reality is, unless you are unique, what you buy won't be your last, so I would suggest you get something resaleable as a baseline. listen to it for a while and then figure where you want to go from there. As long as it's a respectable model from a respected manufacturer you'll be fine. Most offerings from ADS, EPI, JBL, Advent, Polk etc, would be good and easy to sell if/when you want to move on.
 
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