Floor Loudspeaker Reviews

Sidebar 1: Robert Harley's Reference System

The Type Bs were primarily driven by the reference VTL 225W tubed monoblocks, and briefly by a Jeff Rowland Model 1 solid-state unit. I have recently replaced the Audio Research SP11 Mk.II preamp with Audio Research's superb LS2 line stage and the latest version of the Vendetta Research phono preamp. The analog front end was a Well-Tempered Turntable and modified Well-Tempered Arm, fitted with an AudioQuest 7000 cartridge (see my "Follow-Up" in this issue). Digital sources included the Theta Data transport, Theta DS Pro Prime D/A, Audio Research DAC1-20, and the PDM 2 from Deltec Precision Audio.

Interconnects were AudioQuest Diamond and Lapis, or Straight Wire Maestro. I experimented with loudspeaker cables, eventually settling on bi-wired runs of AudioQuest Sterling/Midnight. My dedicated listening room has optimum dimensional ratios for room-mode distribution, and a pair of Phantom Acoustics Shadows, an active low-frequency control system, was employed behind the loudspeakers. The Type Bs were auditioned both with and without the Shadows. My customary Muse Model 18 subwoofer was removed from the room for the serious auditioning.—Robert Harley