I've got a big decision ahead of me and I wanted your thoughts.
Ive got a Denon 1705 and need some speakers, number one.
Some background first - Ive got a small room 12'x12' and a TV in one corner with very little romm on either side of the TV.
The room has hardwoods - although Id consider a rug if it improves the sound.
I am primarily into stereo, and have little interest in a multi-channel setup in this home.
Ok, To the decision:
I need smaller speakers, and I like the B&W XT4s at about $2500/pair. I've heard them driven by a denon receiver and the sound was pretty good. I know at some point I will upgrade the amp, and get a seperate preamp. At that point, I wonder if the XT4s will be able to take advantage of a more powerful and higer quality preamp/amp setup.
The other option are the Dali Helicon 400s at $4200/pr.
My first concern is if theyll fit (theyre 10 inches deeper and 4 inches wider than the XT4s) but they are much better looking (I prefer a classic style with wood). I understand that the ribbon tweeter will sound good in the corner and won't be too disaterous with hardwoods.
Another factor, with the Dali's, would you recommed I upgrade the amp right away to get a better effect?
Im eventually going to move to a McIntosh MC402 amp and use my Denon as a preamp. Then I will upgrade the preamp once I get more cash.
So basically, the delimma is this...do you feel the Denon-BW XT4s are a good start with only a $2500 investment?
Or if given the money, should I goto the Dali's and 402 amp getting me to $9000 upfront?
Generally, what is everyones thoughts as this could be a rather philosophical debate of value, cost, and quality of life.
Cheers, Jason
I've got a big decision ahead of me and I wanted your thoughts.
Ive got a Denon 1705 and need some speakers, number one.
Some background first - Ive got a small room 12'x12' and a TV in one corner with very little romm on either side of the TV.
The room has hardwoods - although Id consider a rug if it improves the sound.
I am primarily into stereo, and have little interest in a multi-channel setup in this home.
Ok, To the decision:
I need smaller speakers, and I like the B&W XT4s at about $2500/pair. I've heard them driven by a denon receiver and the sound was pretty good. I know at some point I will upgrade the amp, and get a seperate preamp. At that point, I wonder if the XT4s will be able to take advantage of a more powerful and higer quality preamp/amp setup.
The other option are the Dali Helicon 400s at $4200/pr.
My first concern is if theyll fit (theyre 10 inches deeper and 4 inches wider than the XT4s) but they are much better looking (I prefer a classic style with wood). I understand that the ribbon tweeter will sound good in the corner and won't be too disaterous with hardwoods.
Another factor, with the Dali's, would you recommed I upgrade the amp right away to get a better effect?
Im eventually going to move to a McIntosh MC402 amp and use my Denon as a preamp. Then I will upgrade the preamp once I get more cash.
So basically, the delimma is this...do you feel the Denon-BW XT4s are a good start with only a $2500 investment?
Or if given the money, should I goto the Dali's and 402 amp getting me to $9000 upfront?
Generally, what is everyones thoughts as this could be a rather philosophical debate of value, cost, and quality of life.
Cheers, Jason