Canuck Audio Mart

I'm in the process of assembling my first analog system and I need some direction with respect to speaker choice. This decision is particularly difficult because it will probably determine, in part, which integrated amplifier I will get. So, without further ado, here is the relevant information...

The system will be set up in your average sized bedroom/office (current living arrangements are temporary). I usually don't listen to music at high volumes, so I would think that bookshelf or stand mounted speakers would be best. I will be listening primarily to blues, folk, and rock, with heavy emphasis on acoustic tracks. Here is a brief sample of some of the artists I will be listening to:
- J.B. Lenoir
- Elmore James
- Muddy Waters
- Elliott Smith
- Feist
- Sufjan Stevens
- The Black Keys
- The White Stripes, etc. etc.

Consequently, I would like speakers with a warm yet detailed sound. My original budget for the speakers and integrated amplifier combined was $1,500. That said, I would be willing to spend a bit more if I find the right speakers. Based on my decision, I will then decide on an integrated amplifier, hopefully finding one that is used/demo.

Given the importance of system synergy, here is my tentative equipment:
- ClearAudio Emotion TT OR ClearAudio Concept TT (which would be best, at least on paper? I haven't yet auditioned them.)
- Musical Surroundings Nova Phonomena II phono pre-amp (I'll try to find used)

Finally, would you suggest that I purchase the speakers used via CAM? My major concern with buying used is that I may have to wait for an indefinite period of time before the specific speakers I want will come to market. Also, since I'm dropping so much cash at once, I can probably negotiate a small system package/deal at a local shop.

So, based on the information provided above, what speakers would you recommend? If it's not too much to ask, can you please recommend an integrated amplifier to match your speaker suggestions? Once I have an appropriate shortlist, I will then begin auditioning at local shops, hopefully reaching a clear decision.

Thanks for the help!

totem sttaf's are my current speakers -- and our music tastes are similar.

reference 3A dulcet's or deCapo's for standmounts perhaps.

On the weekend I listened to a pair of speakers by JohnBlue at Applause Audio in Stratford (about a 1.5hr drive from Richmond Hell) - I was really surprised by them. I found a review for you

http://www.stereomojo.com/JohnBlueJB3Sp ... review.htm

For a bookshelf bedroom system, they'd be perfect.

Good luck with your speaker hunt.

a used creek 5350se integrated paired with epos m12/m12i..should be musically satisfying in that budget range.

for a warmer sound, try electrocompaniet eci integrateds..the older ones can be had in the 900-1k range...

if you want to impress in a bedroom setting-- look for the dali royal menuette II (no longer in production)...a diminutive box that put Dali in the consciousness of audiophiles this side of the atlantic, it will surprise you with its articulation, transparency and bass-- size is unobtrusive, perfect for small rooms ..it's a 4 ohm load and requires power to get up and going so I'd look for Nad's newer high powerered (c370/372) integrateds to push it..i owned this speakers 10 years ago in a small space and always bring a smile in those who's heard it...

Hmm, interesting. I was actually looking at both the Creek 5350SE and the Epos M12i & M5i. While the Creek has received excellent reviews, I can't say the same for the Epos M12i & M5i.

What are your thoughts on the following (possibly paired with the Creek 5350SE):
- ASW Genius 100
- Elac BS 204.2
- Focal JMlab Chorus 807v

Each can be had (new) for $1,000 including tax...

Also, just to clarify, I want to assemble this system for small to medium sized rooms. Since I'm always on the move, I don't want to restrict myself excessively. Thanks again for the input.

Sounds like you have not bought anything yet.

I would suggest listening to some TTs, as a starting point. I would add the Roksan Radius 5 to the list. I have one and enjoy it. Used they are quite reasonable.

In terms of integrated amps, I would suggest Roksan, Mission/Cyrus, Sima, Rotel... heck if you look around you will find a few more. Some of these have phono stages built in that are quite good and will help to keep the price down.

In terms of loudspeakers, I would suggest British speakers, such as Tannoy, Castle or Linn. Most models are good with vinyl and go with the integrated amps I am suggesting.

Clearly, there are other brands, but I would suggest you go listen at a store.

If you are not mechanically inclined I would strongly suggest you buy your turntable from a dealer, as they can help guide you & do the setup for you. I have seen some newbies really make a mess of TT setup. You NEED to READ THE MANUAL! I can't say that enough. You can't just throw it together. It won't work.

For speakers, there is a pair of Totem 1's for sale here on CAM that would be a fine choice - the totems are excellent speakers IMO. With regards to your suggestions, I have only heard the Elac and wsa not impressed - very dry, edgy and strained sounding (with Cambridge electronics I think...)
For an integrated amp, based on your musical tastes, I would suggest a Naim Nait 5 - it may not be the last word in 'audiophile' terms, because they do not have tons of detail, or soundstaging etc...but the musicality and pace and timing is excellent, especially for music with some drive to it...
As far as turntables go, I have owned the emotion for about 3 years and have always been really happy with it. One thing to note is that cartridge selection is a little restrictive since the satisfy tonearm is quite light, so you need to have a fairly high-complaince and light cartridge - that being said, the dynavector 17d3 is excellent!
I will be re-plinthing a lenco L78 very soon and am hoping that it takes me to a new level - we'll see how that goes, but based on the lencos I have heard in the past, it should be a signicant change (whether or not it's better is probably down to a matter of taste...but we'll see)
byron