iamhartigan

If I am not mistaken, all the RFII line floorstanders (excluding the RF-7s) all use the same what is essentially the same tweeter. So really the only difference in sound quality comes with bass extension. I have them paired with two RW-8s so I have no problem with that, but they are just as detailed and full bodied as any of the other RF series.

I really like them. Honestly when paired with my RW-10D subwoofer (with little gain) the result is one of the best sounding stereo set-ups I have experienced. I would personally recommend the RF-42IIs as long as they will be used in tandem with one of more subwoofers. The bass drop-off is something like a bookshelf speaker, but the imaging, Fq response, and accuracy are really something remarkable.

I really like the design of the OM-C2. I am heavily swayed towards bi-polar centers. As far as timbre goes, it matches pretty well, but it is a bit softer of a tweeter compared to a horn. I really really dislike directional center speakers. I want to know that the sound is coming from the center, not above or below the display; but from the center. The omnidirectional design of the Mirage helps that imaging.

So I decided on the RF-42IIs (plus RW-10D subwoofer). I did a direct comparison on the CF-3s to the RF-42IIs and the difference was negligible if ever so slightly in the favor of the RF-42IIs. They were simply more transparent. The CF-3 had a bit of the "cupped hands" effect on the vocal regions and cellos/midrange orchestral tones. It also really bothered me how directional they were. They were fantastic when placed well, but so were the RF-42IIs. And the people sitting on the edge of the couch got to be in the fun too. I wouldn't run the RF-42IIs in direct stereo, but with a subwoofer, they are fantastic. I personally prefer the smaller woofers because the crossover networking can be more favorable to the tweeter to eliminate any midrange coloring. I know that they are entry level, but I did a very critical comparison and the RF-42IIs performed the same if not better. From a realistic standpoint the RF-42IIs were better for me. From a collectors standpoint the CF-3s were unbeatable. But I am very pleased with my final decision.

Any advice?

Sorry I should have added details! They will be powered by a Pioneer Elite VSX-49TXI. Source will be a Pioneer Elite Universal disc player or Marantz. Havent decided yet. I have only been able to listen to the RF-42 IIs extensively. They sound fantastic. I got to partially audition the CF-3s but only heard upper octave piano compositions. So no real bass. The RF-3s would be purchased through craigslist and I only meet in public places so theres no real way for me to audition them. I listen to mainly movie scores and orchestral works. I enjoy some alternative music and will passively listen to light/acoustic rock from time to time. But 40% of the time these will be used as fronts for movies paired with a Mirage OM-C2 center speaker with surrounds that I have yet to purchase. They will be in a living room 12' ceilings about 14' from speaker at listening distance. One will be about 4' from a wall and the other will be about 10' from a wall as the living room is partially open to the kitchen. Carpeted floors. So acoustically it isn't optimal, but it could be worse. Thanks for the warm welcome!

Hi, I am new to the forums so I hope I am posting this in the right area. I can get the following speakers: Klipsch CF-3 (Series 2. 1995) ($400) Klipsch RF-3 II (2001) (Trade for a HK receiver I have. Valued at ~$350) Klipsch RF-42 II (2010) ($75) I can get the RF-42 IIs for practically nothing from a family member, but if the other two would provide a better sound then I would prefer them. I am willing to spend the money for the other ones. So not based on price what are your thoughts? Thanks in advance!