Forte III or IV with solid state amplification

[Mustangjeff]

Hello,

 

I'm currently using a 200 watt per channel Rotel RB-1080 amplifier to drive a pair of 20-year-old Paradigm Reference Studio 100 V.2 speakers.  I'm seriously thinking about getting a pair of Forte III's or IV's (depending on price) to replace the Paradigms.  I mainly listen to Rock music (classic to modern) and metal.

 

Does anyone have any thoughts on if I should go for the Forte or look at something different?  I'm pretty set on keeping my RC-1580/RB-1080 combo.  For an FYI, I have a pair of Chorus II's with Crites upgrades including crossover being run off a Yamaha M60 amplifier and love the sound.

 

Thanks

[The Dude]

If space isn't an issue, id suggest the Cornwall IV over the Forte as they dig a little deeper.  However, I am sure you will be find with the Forte IV for your application with that amplifier. 

[John Chi-town]

What is the size of your listening area?  Theoretically, and on paper Cornwall does go a little lower.  However, INMHO the forte IV has tighter and punchier bass.  I currently own forte IV, and prior to that a forte II owner for over 30 years.  Buy used.  You can find mint forte III for about $,2800.00 a pair and forte IV for about $3,200-$3,500 in most markets.  The difference between the 3rd and 4th generation is not subtle and well worth the extra coin.  I run solid state as well.  Your equipment will work well with either.

[Shakeydeal]

As mentioned already, much depends on the size of the room you are dealing with. Cornwalls will work better in a medium to large space and they also benefit from having some distance between you and the speaker. They are not good near field monitors. If space isn't a premium for you, go for the Fortes.

 

 

[Mike_S]

Currently have Forte with a 200w FET solid state amp. At 20w of power, you almost can't be in the room around 103db (22ftx18ft)

They not only hit low, they hit fast & precise.