texas42

My own list for the 12 most 'significant' speakers of all time. (in reverse order). 1. Klipschorn (nuff said, longest current production speaker and has stood the test of time.) 2. Quad ESL 57 3. Bose 901 (first to really consider making the room part of the equation due to reflections, etc) 4. Rogers LS3/5a (and variants). The essence of a mini-monitor since the early 70s and still in production (Proac, Spendor, Harbeth, etc) 5. Acoustic Research AR3a (first acoustic suspension speaker). 6. Infinity IRS (first true assault on the extreme 'high end' with double towers per side) 7. Original Advent 8. Ohm Type F (first truly omni-directional speaker and paved the way for the MBLs and others that followed) 9. B&W Matrix 801s (first to really consider cabinet influences/resonances and took steps to isolate them via their patented matrix enclosure) 10. Variants of the Lowther/Fostex high efficiency 'single driver' speakers. While I've never heard one I've fallen in love with, many will say the single driver approach is the most pure and refined with no crossovers. 11. Mirage M-1 (first to produce a true bi-polar tower which paved the way for Definitive Technology and others) 12. Carver Amazing Loudspeaker- A number of firsts and still one of the most impressive speakers I've heard at any price. Multiple open baffle woofers, 60" (almost full range) ribbon, etc. Truly a unique design that is standing the test of time. There are probably others I might put on the list instead if I were to reflect longer and I might change the order some too after contemplation but this is pretty close. Would love to see some other members' lists.

Looks like a great time from those who have went before so I'm finally going this year. Hopefully see some of the Klipsch types there in October. This is a true hobbiest show, not geared towards dealers like CES. Below is a link. http://audiofest.net/2010/index.php

Considering the legacy and stature of the speaker I was shocked to see it came in so low (#12). And I dont see how the Magico Mini II came in at number 5. I know Magico is a TAS darling, but come on...#5? I wasn't even aware of this speaker (I did know the company) until I read the article. I was familiar with ALL of the other speakers though. Just my rambling thoughts...I would have ranked the KHorn at least in the top 3. I knew before reading the article they would put the Quad ESL number 1.

Just picked up a nice pair of walnut Chorus 1's and I'm looking to maximize their sonics. Where is the best place to start? Anyone have any experience with Bob Crites titanium drivers for these? Would I need to have the crossover modded to adjust to them? Should I have the crossover modded anyway? And, if so, which is the best place to have it done (would not do it myself). Any tips appreciated.

I've been looking (unsuccessfully so far) for a pair of Cornwalls, Fortes or even La Scalas in decent shape in the San Antonio area to be used in a small two channel room with a Jolida 302BRC integrated amp. I am now thinking of expanding my search to a nice pair of used Heresy's or even a new pair of Heresy III's to be used with my Sunfire Super Junior sub (1200wpc high excursion small sub). Obviously, the Cornwalls, Fortes, LaScalas, etc) would have more bass than the Heresy's (by themselves) but my question is whether a pair of Heresy's WITH a sub would provide me the same quality of sound? I've owned all 4 models mentioned in this thread in the past but don't really recall a lot about the Heresy's I had as I didn't have them long. Do they provide true 'heritage' sound or are they more of a Klipsch with training wheels? Any comments on their performance appreciated...

Mine was shipped out this morning. I plan on using the Emotiva Pre/pro when it is released (supposedly) next month (June). Hopefully, both Oppo and Emotiva are releasing 'bug free' units but we all know how first batches seem to be these days using consumers often as their test group.

Hi, I recently received some original type thick weave speaker grill material from Bob Crites that I plan to use to re-grill my 1984 Cornwall II's. What is the best method/material to use to affix the grill material to the fiberboard grill frame? 3M spray glue? Staples from a staplegun? Maybe both in concert? Looking for someone that has experience with this that might point me the best way. Thanks in advance for any assistance. Please let me know specifically which type of glue you found that works best (if recommending glue) and the best method to ensure a good hold (do only part of it each day, use clothes pins to help it set, etc...). Thanks again! Regards, Dave

i've got several hundred mostly classic rock and blues albums I'd like to sell or trade as well. Most are in very fine condition. Let me know if you are interested. I don't have a list typed out but know how to use a telephone quite well....:-)

5) If I ignore this poll, it will go away..... :-)

I looking at two different pairs of Cornwalls about 7 years apart in date of manufacture and noticed a few differences. The one from the 1977 has 2 ports at the bottom and a fully veneered front baffle and the one from around 1984 had a matt black front baffle and 3 ports. Are there any differences in sound between these or is one considered to be more 'desirable' than the other? Any comments will be appreciated.

Unfortunately, due to the distance they are from me, I won't be able to audition them 'in' my system with my amps or against my Chorus, head to head. I'll certainly audition them there before any purchase and just hope they are impressive enough to want to keep. I could always add a sub to fill out the lower registers (if needed). Due to the small room they would be in though, not sure how necessary that would be.

I'm looking at possibly picking up a pair of Altec Valencias (2 way, about the size of a pair of LaScalas). Would these be a step or (or down) from my Chorus I? I'd have to drive a bit to listen but just investigating whether it is worth the effort, not being familiar with the Altec sound. Associated components to be used are a JM Peach preamp and either my McIntosh MC-7300 (I know a bit of overkill with 300 wpc but I love the sound of Mac) or a pair of Wright Sound 3.5 monos (2A3 tube amp with 3.5 watts of SET). Any opinions appreciated. I posed this query in another board I visit but since I now own the Klipsch and it is a vintage horn thought some on here might have valuable insight. Thanks in advance...

I still remember an audition I held at my house once where everyone commented on how nice my (then) top of the Denon CD Player (3300, I think) sounded, til I informed them it was a portable Panasonic CD player. It was only then they started hearing how little impact, lack of inner detail, etc...the portable had. I've been to other auditions as well where as long as you can 'see' the player, you thought it was perfect (one was with a NAIM player). Once it was revealed they were listening to a $100 cheap dvd player, all the tunes seem to change. A lot of this is what we 'want' to believe and convince ourselves is there. Now do I prefer higher end CD players to cheaper ones? Yup...I like the look, build quality, refinement, pedigree, etc., of the higher end stuff. But I try not to become too delusional over how much 'better' it truly is. In some cases it IS truly better so not trying to diminish what others hear (or even 'think' they hear). I have no problems with those that want to spend thousands $$ on esoteric cables if they think it improves their system. To each their own and I'm ok with it. We all travel different paths to audio enjoyment. I'm just glad our small hobby (and it is getting smaller every year) still allows us to enjoy the music.

Well, since the KHorn deal fell through, I did what any self-respecting Klispch fan would do...I went shopping! Ended up with a nice pair of Oiled Oak Forte II's and today drove to Houston and picked up a nice pair of Chorus I's in Oiled Walnut. Both sound great in my 2 channel room. Initial impressions are the Forte had tighter, better defined bass (although the Chorus has a larger cabinet and active bass driver) but the Chorus sounds a bit more open and airy. The midrange? Too early to tell yet. Thanks to all who offered advice though. I had a shot at a pair of Cornwalls locally but the guy wouldn't budge on his price of $850-900 and they cabinets weren't in that good of shape (unfinished birch finish with chips, etc) and they did not have a riser base. In contrast, I picked up a very nice set of Chorus in walnut with risers for $500, so I'm happy. Attached are pics...

Well, I solved my own mystery (I think...). After taking a pic (on macro setting) with my camera to 'prove' there were indeed slashes in my SN; it appears these are probably 7's with the tops worn off? In that case, it makes sense the 275290077 means built the 275th day of 1992 with the 0077 being the rest of the serial number. I guess it's time for reading glasses... :-(

I just purchased a pair of Forte II's; only one has the serial number on it. I checked the sticky (on this forum) for serial numbers but can't see where mine applies. The serial number on the sticker on the back of one of my speakers is 2/52900// I'm guessing the 2nd month, 5th day of 1992? And those are slash marks (//) not ones. Or maybe the '2/' is the second speaker (of the same pair) and it was made the 5th day of 1992? Any ideas...?

Well, I just picked up a pair of nice Oiled Oak Forte II's (for $450). The price local availability were too good to pass on. Now, at least if the KHorn guy backs out, I still have a nice pair of speakers. I might also pick up a pair of Cornwalls to compare with the Forte's if the KHorns fall through...

Well, it may be a moot point as the seller is vacillating on his offer to sell. It would have been a good deal (at $2000 for the pair) if it works out. If not, I have a line on a pair of Cornwalls (for $800) or Forte II's (for $450). Maybe, considering the size of my room the Forte's would be the best fit (size/sound) and certainly the least expensive....

I think my components are up to the task and I have considered the 'single driver' approach. (Came close to buying a Hornshoppe Horn over the weekend, but wasn't quick enough with the trigger). I also have a great shot at a local pair of Forte's and even some Cornwalls.

DoubleJ, thanks for the link....Looks like the shortest distance from those that participated was 11' from corner to corner and the shortest listening position was 7'. In my room they would be 10' apart and about 6.5' from the speakers (in the sweetspot). That would qualify me for the having the 'new record'..... Not sure if it would work or not, however. I'm interested in the clarity they would provide. Not too concerned about the volume. Associated components would be a McIntosh MC-7300 and a JM Peach tube preamp.

I've always lusted after these but never had a room with two solid corners for them. I have a line on a couple of pair now though that I am considering. This would be for a dedicated two channel room where space is at a premium. My room size is 10' by 10' with a vaulted ceiling (8' at one end, 13' at the other). I listen at low to moderate levels but am trying to delude myself that this would work. Anyone with any experience with K-Horns in a small room?

Dean, your safe. I'm going after the "Preamp of the Month" Club. I also have a Carver C2 Preamp I'll let go for cheap ($100 plus shipping)

Trying to cut back on some of my gear and will be letting the following go at very reasonable prices. I have a 9 month old Quicksilver Tube Linestage (with box/manual) in mint/near mint condition. It uses two 12AX7 tubes. I currently have a pair of Tung Sols in it but will also ship with a pair of Groove Tubes. Each imparts a slightly different flavor. This is one of the quietest and most musical preamps I've ever owned. I'd like $600 plus shipping for this. I also have a McIntosh C36 preamp in near mint condition as well. As to be expected, the McIntosh is extremely well built, elegant and classy. It is very accurate and smooth. Also, it has that unique green illuminated faceplate which really stands out in a darkened room. I'd like $800 plus shipping for this one. Prices are no-nonsense, more than fair, and firm. Email if you would like pics or I can arrange an audition if you are in the San Antonio area.

Speakers are located in San Antonio TX, Standard Birch. These speakers are not mine and I am just listing this for a casual acquaintence. He describes them as a 7/10 cosmetically and perfect functionally. I posted this ad for him about a month ago (for a few hundred more) but he asked me to repost at a lower amount as he is motivated to sell. His name is Alan Morton and you can reach him at 210-478-8787.

I don't have any experience with teh M-400 or Phase Linear but know the 1.0 was voiced to sound like the Conrad Johnson Premier 5 Tube Monos so should be a rather 'warm' sounding amp. Since I'm assuming you are going to be using Klipsch speakers, it might be a good match depending on how 'tight' you like your bass. Just my two cents, other may have better experience with the specific combinations. Best of luck!