Hi all

After 20 years listening to my Pioneer Elite, (originally with Bose 501's and then Boston Acoustic's VR-M60's ), I am investing in a totally new audio/video system.

I have pinned my hopes for the system on an Anthem AVM 50 with their MCA 50 amp. For the speakers, I am leaning towards the Anthony Gallo Reference 3.1 for the front and the AG Reference center and surrounds for a 5.0 system. I am leaning towards either a single or dual set of REL B3's for the .1.

I have had one audition with the Anthony Gallo Reference 3.1 front speakers and will be testing the Reference Center and Sounds next week. Not having had the opportunity to learn my way up the ladder, I have spent the last two weeks testing a slew of speakers including Tannoy Sensys DC's, (my second pick), Final Sound 400i's which I liked but the Surrounds were weak or poorly setup and turned me off immediately as well as B&W 705's which was a close 3rd.

I listened to the AG's being driven by an excellent Tube amp system and thus the reason for the post. The Audiophile store I listened to the AG's is a Tube amp's heaven of which there was a $30K CD/Pre/Pwr package delivering some real sweet sound. Thus, the desire to hear back from anyone who has had the AG Reference line running off either the Anthem or simular type Pre and Amp type system in both stereo and surround scenarios.

I know that the room makes an important impact on the speakers but as we are transforming our historically rarely go into living room into the media center, (18' by 11.6' with windows on two walls and very open design into the hallway with dinning room across the hallway and entrance into kitchen), I am limited to mounting the 52" LCD to one of the 18' walls and placing the fronts pretty well against the wall with lots of distance between them and the side walls, (about 6' with the fronts about 6' apart).

I will mount the center channel on the wall under the LCD and then try and stand mount the rears on tables across the room, (about 10' away).

Again, would appreciate anyones feedback on the AG's.

Cheers

Bob

I Just orderd the Gallo 3.1s, and Ref AV's for the Center & Rear. They should arrive next week.

I also just ordered the Emotiva DMC-1 Pre/Pro & MPS-1 7X200 Amp.

I will let you know how it sounds!

Bob, I spent about 6 months auditioning various speakers and settled on the 3.1's and don't regret my decision one bit. I listened to many brands including Vandersteen, B&W, Paradigm, mostly in the homes of friends. The AG's, I had to audition several times at a local dealer. I also purchaed the SA3 Subamp for the second voice coil because I felt my room was not ideal but on reflection, I really don't need it. My room configuration requires me to fire the woofers outward since I have an entertainment center with a 50" plasma between the speakers. Ideally, I would fire the woofers inward, which is why I bought the SA, to compensate for an anticipated lack of bass but this has not been a problem. Many times when I listen I don't even bother to turn it on, it's mostly just a novelty.

My setup is strictly 2 channel and I drive the speakers with a Pioneer 84 TXS, which puts out 140 wpc. I have been considering an Anthem P2 with the Pioneer acting as a pre/pro but I haven't been able to find a local dealer that has one in stock and it's really not a priority since the Pioneer provides more than enough power for the moment.

I listen mostly to jazz and blues, with some classic rock and the Gallos reproduction is exquisite. Speakers are the most subjective part of any sound system and perceptions will vary widely but in my opinion they offer the most uncolored presentation of any of the brands I auditioned. Bass is deep and tight and if anything, the SA adds some measure of control at high volume levels. I think just having some current on the second VC helps. The music I listen to does not require freq response below what the unamplified woofer provides. The soundstage is wide and extends beyond the positioning of the speakers. Image height is somewhat limited by the size of the speaker but that does not bother me because I am seated for serious listening. I am not extremly critical when watching TV and they perform well in that capacity also, even without a center speaker.

Midrange is smooth and not too forward. The mid to high transition is seamless and vocal reproduction, especially female voices is the best I have heard. Highs are dispersed such that the sweet spot is not limited to just one position in the listening room. Transient response is excellent.

I adheared to the breakin recommendations but to be honest, I don't think it really makes any difference. Anyway, forgive the stream of conscienceness ramble...suffice it to say that I'm sure you'll be satisfied with your choice. Let us know how it goes for you! :)