bblocker

I was using some older Infinity Reference series. I didn't notice it before, but I think I was just missing out ... After a good about 5 hours of listening to various records this evening, I've decided the highs are just fine! I think I just wasn't use to such clear, uninhibited sound. Sure, the highs are harsh now and then, but I think that's more of an indication of poorly recorded music. Many of my records with a good quality recording just sound beautiful. I think the old audiophile catch 22 is completely true. The better components you have, the more you notice the short-comings of some recordings. That's not necessarily a bad thing. Sure, it stinks when you just want to hear a song, but it's a poor recording. The flip side is that a well made record just sings with this setup. Considering I grabbed Jolida for $200 and the Fortes for $350, I feel like I stole the whole setup. I could have plunked down $3k at my local hi-fi shop and I wouldn't be this happy.

Thank you all for the advice. I ended up picking up the Fortes for a mere $350! They're in perfect shape and I couldn't be happier. My only question is this: The highs seem a bit hot or harsh. I've played with placement and got the speakers in the corners just right for the perfect balance of bass. I'm just wondering if there are any tricks to smooth out the highs a little bit. Anyone know of any tricks? That's a really picky issue. Don't get me wrong. This setup is killer!! I love the warmth of the tubes pushing through these big Fortes. I also love that I only have a turntable hooked up. No iPod BS or anything like that. Just the crackle of vinyl filling up the room. Thanks again!

Thank you dtel! Any advice (other than sound) on how to inspect them when I look tonight? i.e. Do the surrounds wear out and need replacing? Etc. I will obviously go by ear first and foremost.

I'm purchasing my boss's stock Jolida 202a for $200. I feel like it's a hell of a score. Now I need to find speakers. I'll mainly be listening to vinyl. I have my Techniques SL 220 run through a NAD PP-2. I tend to listen to a lot of acoustic music. Lots of old country and western (Merl Haggard, WIllie Nelson, Johnny Cash, etc.). I also play a good deal of Beatles, Black Crowes, Drive By Truckers, and that type of southern rock. I listen to a little jazz, but mostly the acoustic and southern thing. I've always loved the bright sound of Klipsch and the unique sound of the horns. I have heard they round out the warmth of tubes really well. I had been looking at a new set of RB-61 or RB-51's. I also found a deal on pair of Synergy F2's. I initially went this route because I had heard smaller speakers like these would do well with the 40-watt Jolida. I know all of the Klipsch speakers will provide the high sensitivity I need to push sound from the small tube amp. So are any of these worth it? I found a pair of Forte's on Craigslist for $400. From what I've read this may be the way to go. Are the Fortes that much better that I should go for a speaker from 1987 over a brand new one. The guy tells me he's the original owner, non-smoker, and that he's never really pushed them too hard. They look to be in great shape. What's the obvious way to go? Any feedback is GREATLY appreciated! Thanks.