Hello all,

Let me first say that I have been out of the speaker/audio market for about 6-7 years. My current 5.1 set up has NHT Super Twos, a NHT Super Center, and NHT Super Ones mated with a Paradigm sub all powered by a Sony STR-DB930 receiver. While this works reasonably well in the Home Theater Room, I would like to set up a 2 channel set-up dedicated to music in my living room. The listening area is about 15x15. For space constraints I cannot set up a subwoofer, so the low end has to be handled by the towers themselves.

My choices so far are the Martin Logans (Montage) and the Def Tech 7004 (both at the local Magnolia/BB), KEF iQ9 and the Paradigm Monitor 11 (they sounded super-efficient) at the local dealer.

The Def Techs retail for 799 each, and I may be willing to go that far if needed but I would also need a receiver (suggestions?), so anything I can save would be nice.

I would sure appreciate any input/suggestions.

Thanks in advance,
Rajneesh

There has been a lot or great things said about these speakers for 2-channel music listening. You might want to do a search here, and on the internet for reviews, and thoughts.

http://www.**********/products_product.php?section=speakers&product=78.1

Also the Tyler Freedom line

http://www.tyleracoustics.com/freedom.html

Also might want to look into a set of these. Here is what one forum member had to say.

Dynaudio Focus 140

http://forums.soundandvisionmag.com/audiovideo/board/message?board.id=40&thread.id=74855&view=by_date_ascending&page=1

http://www.stereophile.com/standloudspeakers/506dynaudio/

Monitor Audio GS-60s would be right up your alley as well. Most prefer them over Paradigms. Plus you can choose between a number of real wood veneers.

http://monitoraudiousa.com/product.php?range=1&product=12

Mazer and Max,

Thanks for the prompt response.

I really liked the look of the Mini Stratas, but they are beyond my budget :( Like I mentioned before, the Def Tech 7004s would be really stretching it. The Tylers speaker also look good, but having never heard them, it is hard to go for it. I wanted to audition the Monitors, but the closest dealer is at least one hour away.

Of the four that I mentioned, three, i.e. KEF iQ9, Paradigm Monitor 11 and the Martin Logans seemed to be similarly priced. Am I comparing apples to apples here?

Also, between the iQ9s and the Paradigms (both being powered by a Rotel), the Paradigms seemed a lot more efficient. Do you know whether the iQ9s and the Logans would need special considerations when it comes to choosing a receiver to power them?

Thanks,
Rajneesh

Also, between the iQ9s and the Paradigms (both being powered by a Rotel),

Thanks,
Rajneesh

So are you going to use your receiver or purchase another one?

What receiver?

And if you do some research and reading of reviews. I wouldn't be scared to purchase the Tyler's.

Haven't decided upon the receiver as yet. That will be dictated by the speaker I choose. Wouldn't even mind a good 2 channel receiver, although the person at Magnolia indicated to me that the Martin Logans would require something in the neighborhood of 100 W per channel. The KEF dealer also mentioned similar requirements for any receiver for the iQ9s.

Thanks,
Rajneesh

Well here is a receiver for you.

http://www.outlawaudio.com/products/rr2150.html

Now I don't know what budget you where thinking for a reciever.

AV123 Rocket RS760's for $1500 or RS450's for $900

RS760's Here:
http://www.**********/products_product.php?section=speakers&product=79.1

RS450's Here:
http://www.**********/products_product.php?section=speakers&product=90.1

Not sure what you should get but I'm glad to see the iQ9s getting more attention around here lately.

http://stereophile.com/floorloudspeakers/206kef/

http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/speakers/1923/kef-q-series-home-theater-speaker-system.html

Rajneesh,

Could you rank your listening preferences (imaging, accuracy, level of bass depth, dispersion etc). This will help us recommend a speaker as no speaker does everything well at a given price point.

Also what placement options (restrictions) do you have. For example, don't plan on putting full range dipoles (eg Magnepan's) right against a wall. While other speakers such as some of the larger horns (like the big klipsch) like being in corners for bass reproduction.

Lastly you mentioned this is going to be a dedicated 2 ch room. If this is truly a dedicated room, I'd spend about $300 - $500 on simple room treatments (eg absorbtion for 1st reflection) and get a speaker that is $300 - $500 less. The room treatments will make the biggest difference.

Why not try the Classic 4 from NHT

All the speakers mentioned in the posts above would be a solid choice. Have you auditioned the definitive 7006's? I saw the 7004's on your list. I believe the 06's are 200 less. I have definitive towers and enjoy them for music.

Why not try the Classic 4 from NHT

I second that....give them a listen!

I thought these (http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Boston-Acoustics-Tower-Speaker-Black-VR2/sem/rpsm/oid/159494/catOid/-12950/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do) sounded nice when paired with a decent subwoofer.

I thought these (http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Boston-Acoustics-Tower-Speaker-Black-VR2/sem/rpsm/oid/159494/catOid/-12950/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do) sounded nice when paired with a decent subwoofer.

He's constrained by lack of space for a subwoofer - tower speakers will have to cover all woofer duties

I second that....give them a listen!

You are preaching to the choir here :) I already have the NHT Super Twos (in my HT set up) and they work very well for music too. Unfortunately, the Classic Fours are out of my budget :(

All the speakers mentioned in the posts above would be a solid choice. Have you auditioned the definitive 7006's? I saw the 7004's on your list. I believe the 06's are 200 less. I have definitive towers and enjoy them for music.

Yes, I also auditioned the 7006s. I liked them too, but thought the difference in bass (8" vs 10" subwoofer) was noticeable. Also my speakers are going to be a foot or so from the back wall. Do you have any issues regarding speaker placement for the Def Techs?

Thanks,
Rajneesh

The DCM TFE200's are really good speakers....how good? Look on their web site and click on NEWS and see what David A. Rich of Sensible Sound Magazine had to say about them. David said in his DCM review that the TFE200's were the best that he has had in his room. One of the speakers that David has reviewed in the past was the NHT XD System...$$$6000 http://www.dcmspeakers.com :)

You are preaching to the choir here :) I already have the NHT Super Twos (in my HT set up) and they work very well for music too. Unfortunately, the Classic Fours are out of my budget :(

They were out of mine too :D
But I am glad I got them!!

How about Wharfedale Evo2 40s?

B&W CM7's , or if they are too rich (@$1700) , you might wait for the new larger 600 Series Towers at @ $1400.
Also the Revel Concerta's should be in your price range.

B&W CM7's , or if they are too rich (@$1700) , .

Excellent recommendation. :D

Yes, I also auditioned the 7006s. I liked them too, but thought the difference in bass (8" vs 10" subwoofer) was noticeable. Also my speakers are going to be a foot or so from the back wall. Do you have any issues regarding speaker placement for the Def Techs?

Thanks,
Rajneesh

A foot is almost ideal for rear wall placement. You dont want them too close to corners, al least 18" or so.

The DCM TFE200's are really good speakers....how good? Look on their web site and click on NEWS and see what David A. Rich of Sensible Sound Magazine had to say about them. David said in his DCM review that the TFE200's were the best that he has had in his room. One of the speakers that David has reviewed in the past was the NHT XD System...$$$6000 http://www.dcmspeakers.com :)

Ignore this guy. He's a paid advertiser for quite a few white van manufacturers.

Ignore this guy. He's a paid advertiser for quite a few white van manufacturers.
DCMs aren't "white van".

And looking at his POSTS (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/search.php?searchid=3741938), he doesn't really seem to be a shill for "white van" speakers.

DCMs aren't "white van".

And looking at his POSTS (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/search.php?searchid=3735538), he doesn't really seem to be a shill for "white van" speakers.

His posts are the most convincing material that points to him being an advertiser! Ok, I shouldn't say all the products he advertises for are white van, but quite a few have that appearance and stink about them, including DCM (take a look at their parent company, Mitek - it's like one big hype machine). The majority of his posts are starting a thread with the following tone about some product that isn't really talked about:

"Listen to XXX, I just heard them and think they're worth way more than they cost! You should really listen to them!"

I'm highly suspect about his experience with all of the products he hypes. Read through the majority of his posts. If the content doesn't scream "shill", I don't know what would. You obviously didn't read his posting history. It ranges from clever little clocks, to acoustic magnetizers, to the 4-letter 'B' word, to god knows what else (look him up on other forums).

His posts are the most convincing material that points to him being an advertiser! Ok, I shouldn't say all the products he advertises for are white van, but quite a few have that appearance and stink about them, including DCM (take a look at their parent company, Mitek - it's like one big hype machine). The majority of his posts are starting a thread with the following tone about some product that isn't really talked about:

"Listen to XXX, I just heard them and think they're worth way more than they cost! You should really listen to them!"

I'm highly suspect about his experience with all of the products he hypes. Read through the majority of his posts. If the content doesn't scream "shill", I don't know what would. You obviously didn't read his posting history. It ranges from clever little clocks, to acoustic magnetizers, to the 4-letter 'B' word, to god knows what else (look him up on other forums).
Ummm, I looked at his posts; 5 pages of them. I didn't see any "white van" speakers mentioned in the posts of his that I looked at. Maybe you could link me to what you're talking about. He comments on a broad range of speakers and actually offers some good advice here and there (for example, room treatments). He is a bit overly enthusiastic about certain products and does seem to be a name-dropper, but he's not a shill for any one company that I can tell.

Just as examples, Lipinski is not a white van company; far from it. Neither is Onkyo. Nor Phase Technology. Nor vintage JBLs. Nor NHTs. Nor Polks. Nor Focal-JMLab. BOSE isn't either, although they're not the most loved speakers out there.

Now, GrungeBuster CD mats ARE questionable, LOL. So are the Clever Little Clocks, LOL.

He does catch a lot of hell for his posts. And he seems more fickle than Pulliam, LOL. It's hard to tell what he's up to exactly, but a shill for white van speakers, he's not. Maybe he just likes to stir the pot and try and get a rise out of people; which he's apparently succeeded at.

And, no, DCMs are not "white van" speakers. Yes, they were bought by another company a few years back, but they're still respected speakers.

Hello all,

Let me first say that I have been out of the speaker/audio market for about 6-7 years. My current 5.1 set up has NHT Super Twos, a NHT Super Center, and NHT Super Ones mated with a Paradigm sub all powered by a Sony STR-DB930 receiver. While this works reasonably well in the Home Theater Room, I would like to set up a 2 channel set-up dedicated to music in my living room. The listening area is about 15x15. For space constraints I cannot set up a subwoofer, so the low end has to be handled by the towers themselves.

My choices so far are the Martin Logans (Montage) and the Def Tech 7004 (both at the local Magnolia/BB), KEF iQ9 and the Paradigm Monitor 11 (they sounded super-efficient) at the local dealer.

The Def Techs retail for 799 each, and I may be willing to go that far if needed but I would also need a receiver (suggestions?), so anything I can save would be nice.

I would sure appreciate any input/suggestions.

Thanks in advance,
Rajneesh

I would recommend the Martin Logan Mosaics via audiogon... about $1000 there.

Joey

I own Paradigm Monitor 7's, and while I like them, I constantly wish I had bought Studio's. If you're looking at Monitor 11's, listen to some Paradigm Studio 20's or 40's.

It's hard to tell what he's up to exactly, but a shill for white van speakers, he's not.

You seemed to have missed this part of my post:

Ok, I shouldn't say all the products he advertises for are white van, but quite a few have that appearance and stink about them

Either way, to me, it's quite obvious that the account (it probably isn't just one person) works for a marketing firm and the task is to hype products that contract the firm.

Either way, to me, it's quite obvious that the account (it probably isn't just one person) works for a marketing firm and the task is to hype products that contract the firm.
Doubtful. His posts are laughable, annoyingly entertaining, and extremely amateurish. Not much of a pattern there either; the products he hypes are completely all over the place.

Did everyone get scared off by that? Im glad you stepped in and questioned the DCMs, the website is so poor I thought something was wrong.

Can we continue on with some other options?

DCMs aren't "white van".

And looking at his POSTS (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/search.php?searchid=3741938), he doesn't really seem to be a shill for "white van" speakers.

whatever they are, the freq chart there looked a bit nasty, something like +/-6db 60Hz-20kHz for starters.

The MLs would need a subwoofer to give you solid low end response. They are not known for deep, accurate bass, so, IMO, I would look in other directions. There has to be more dealers around than just the Magnolia (ie. best buy) that you could get some demos. Dont be afraid to walk into a higher end store as well, alot of times they have 2nd hand gear at quite a bargain. Plus, they (even the high end stores) carry lower, or less expensive lines as well that you could take a look at.

I just bought a pair of Martin Logan Clarity. Maybe not the best ESL from ML but very detailed sound (and sexy look). For 2 channel music a much better choice than the Montage (I have been going back and forth between the two myself). I am using a Rotel amp and couldn't be happier, they sound fantastic. The Clarity have been discontinued recently and I bet you can get a very good deal from Magnolia or any other ML dealer if they have a pair in stock.

His posts are the most convincing material that points to him being an advertiser! Ok, I shouldn't say all the products he advertises for are white van, but quite a few have that appearance and stink about them, including DCM (take a look at their parent company, Mitek - it's like one big hype machine). The majority of his posts are starting a thread with the following tone about some product that isn't really talked about:

"Listen to XXX, I just heard them and think they're worth way more than they cost! You should really listen to them!"

I'm highly suspect about his experience with all of the products he hypes. Read through the majority of his posts. If the content doesn't scream "shill", I don't know what would. You obviously didn't read his posting history. It ranges from clever little clocks, to acoustic magnetizers, to the 4-letter 'B' word, to god knows what else (look him up on other forums).
Lindahl...you need to get a life!!! I REALLY own these DCM TFE200's and think they are one of the best sounding that I have ever heard. I am NOT connected with this company in any way! I think the Sensible Sound review is spot on.... . THE SPEAKER'S TONALITY REMINDS YOU OF WHAT ONE HEARS.......FROM $$,$$$ 5 FIGURE SPEAKERS TARGETED AT AUDIOPHILES http://www.dcmspeakers.com/news/stories/soundmag.htm

Quad 21L
Monitor Audio RS6
Focal 726V


All competent speakers. RS6's are a favorite of many reviewers, and the 21Ls are VERY musical, + best looking speaker for the price.

Lindahl...you need to get a life!!! I REALLY own these DCM TFE200's and think they are one of the best sounding that I have ever heard. I am NOT connected with this company in any way! I think the Sensible Sound review is spot on.... . THE SPEAKER'S TONALITY REMINDS YOU OF WHAT ONE HEARS.......FROM $$,$$$ 5 FIGURE SPEAKERS TARGETED AT AUDIOPHILES http://www.dcmspeakers.com/news/stories/soundmag.htm
:D

even though they are not that well known in the states try to see if you hear System Audio Sa1750's (Danish).I recently upgraded my B&W 603s3 sytem to a complete set of System Audio's and they are fantastic for 2ch and HT.They just out did my B&W's in every sense of the word.They are Slim,Fast,Accurate and precise.The only review i've actually found was on Hometheatermag.

I own Paradigm Monitor 7's, and while I like them, I constantly wish I had bought Studio's. If you're looking at Monitor 11's, listen to some Paradigm Studio 20's or 40's.
Where will he get his bass from if he goes with the much smaller Studios? Remember he has no room for a sub. After all the title of the thread is "Help Choosing Towers......."

Go with the 11s.

They have some DCM TFE200's over on Ebay... Item number 130107371007 ...Go look what this person had to say about these speakers :eek:

Hello again all,

First of all many thanks to everyone who responded with a lot of helpful suggestions. Since my initial posts I have managed to eliminate the MLs and the Def Techs (looking to keep it around the 1000 dollar price point). Also I have auditioned (and loved) the B&W 603s. So in so far as floor standers go, my top 2 choices would be the KEF iQ9 or the B&W 603s. Here is where the plot thicknes :-) I also auditioned the B&W 602s bookshelves and the Focal 908 Profiles (6 month old floor model selling for half price!). Unfortunately the Focals were in the TV area so it wasn't an ideal situation (this is where I will need help from people who have heard the B&Ws and the Focals. FYI I did listen to the Profile towers at 4000 dollars a pair and they sounded awesome!) But at 1100 dollars, these seem like a steal. So now the dilemma is should I go for the towers or the Focal bookshelves? Remember I do not anticipate adding a sub (at least anytime soon). I know it is sort of comparing apples to oranges, but any help would be appreciated.

Thanks again,
Rajneesh

Hello again all,

First of all many thanks to everyone who responded with a lot of helpful suggestions. Since my initial posts I have managed to eliminate the MLs and the Def Techs (looking to keep it around the 1000 dollar price point). Also I have auditioned (and loved) the B&W 603s. So in so far as floor standers go, my top 2 choices would be the KEF iQ9 or the B&W 603s. Here is where the plot thicknes :-) I also auditioned the B&W 602s bookshelves and the Focal 908 Profiles (6 month old floor model selling for half price!). Unfortunately the Focals were in the TV area so it wasn't an ideal situation (this is where I will need help from people who have heard the B&Ws and the Focals. FYI I did listen to the Profile towers at 4000 dollars a pair and they sounded awesome!) But at 1100 dollars, these seem like a steal. So now the dilemma is should I go for the towers or the Focal bookshelves? Remember I do not anticipate adding a sub (at least anytime soon). I know it is sort of comparing apples to oranges, but any help would be appreciated.

Thanks again,
Rajneesh

The profiles are obviouly better speakers. However, if bass is a big concern, than maybe the B&Ws are best.

Bear in mind that B&W is replacing their 600 series in july, so you'd be buying "end of line".

why not use a small subwoofer? along with the towers. bigger isnt always better!

If you like Paradigms, then perhaps a pair of Studio 100s, although they do like something that can drive fairly low impedance dip.

Ummm....................................

What'd you end up getting, Rajneesh? :confused:

If you're not going super loud, the Totem Acoustics Sttaf are worth auditioning. They're on the top of my list for a two channel system (should I ever find the $$$ and space for one, of course).

Why not Use a Slim subwoofer? I've seen plenty of those.

One of my absolute favorites is the Totem Arro, you won't be disappointed I promise! The Paradigm Monitor 11v5 is a real disappointment, but the new Studio 40v4 are wonderful. If you want great sound at a low price, consider the Aperion Audio 633T. Loads of great sound for the dollar and no cheesy vinyl cabinets. Any of these would work great with the Outlaw receiver that was mentioned earlier. Good luck!

As for Focal Profiles versus towers... what kind of music do you listen to? If there's not much bass in your music, you might be able to get away without a subwoofer, so I'd say get the Profiles (great price, and you liked the towers a lot).

As for Focal Profiles versus towers... what kind of music do you listen to? If there's not much bass in your music, you might be able to get away without a subwoofer, so I'd say get the Profiles (great price, and you liked the towers a lot).
I've listened to Kef iQ9 vs B&W CM7 vs MA Silver series vs Focal 816V. Of this lot, I would definitely pick the Focals. The profiles are the next higher line from what I have listened to, and if you can get these are the same price as Kef iQ9, I would get them in a heartbeat.

Hello again all,

First of all many thanks to everyone who responded with a lot of helpful suggestions. Since my initial posts I have managed to eliminate the MLs and the Def Techs (looking to keep it around the 1000 dollar price point). Also I have auditioned (and loved) the B&W 603s. So in so far as floor standers go, my top 2 choices would be the KEF iQ9 or the B&W 603s. Here is where the plot thicknes :-) I also auditioned the B&W 602s bookshelves and the Focal 908 Profiles (6 month old floor model selling for half price!). Unfortunately the Focals were in the TV area so it wasn't an ideal situation (this is where I will need help from people who have heard the B&Ws and the Focals. FYI I did listen to the Profile towers at 4000 dollars a pair and they sounded awesome!) But at 1100 dollars, these seem like a steal. So now the dilemma is should I go for the towers or the Focal bookshelves? Remember I do not anticipate adding a sub (at least anytime soon). I know it is sort of comparing apples to oranges, but any help would be appreciated.

Thanks again,
Rajneesh

Focal Profile have the typical slightly bright, slightly lean JM Labs sound. That said, I enjoy the 918 Profile quite a bit. The 908 is a great speaker also.... detailed to the brim.

Focal Profile have the typical slightly bright, slightly lean JM Labs sound. That said, I enjoy the 918 Profile quite a bit. The 908 is a great speaker also.... detailed to the brim.

I'd have to agree, but the OP seems to like that sound, so I'd say go for it.

Hi guys,

Hit a snag and instead of following up on this thread, somehow managed to start a new thread. Anyways, here is my final system

Onkyo CP704 DVD/CD player
Outlaw RR2150
KEF iQ9

Close contenders were the Rotel 1052 and B&W703, but price considerations prevailed.

Again, thanks to everyone who wrote in with suggestions.

Cheers