I "need" to try a pair of monitors

NJPOLKER
NJPOLKER Posts: 3,474
edited January 2010 in Speakers
The pair of LSi9"s I was buying a month ago didn't work out :mad: Oh well.
I hate people from New Jersey, no code.

For some reason I have to listen to a pair of monitor style/type speakers in my own home/system. I do not understand how any monitor speaker can compete with my SRS2's. There is no way they can reproduce the sound, can they? Here is my drawn out question/s
I can buy a pair of Polk Audio LSi9's for maybe $500-$550 - rebuild the x-overs for $400.
So for about a grand I can have a real nice pair of LSi9's

If I decide or when I decide to try a pair of monitors do I go the upgraded Polk way or another?

I am thinking the worst thing that can happen is I will resell whatever it is I try out and have some fun along the way. However, if I go with the Polk LSi9 and upgraded x-over I'll take a loss vs. a stock pair of whoever off Audiogon if I decide to flip them.

Any thoughts or suggestions
Post edited by NJPOLKER on
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Comments

  • treitz3
    treitz3 Posts: 19,249
    edited January 2010
    Yes, get your ears on a pair of Focal 807's...at least audition them. ;)
    ~ In search of accurate reproduction of music. Real sound is my reference and while perfection may not be attainable? If I chase it, I might just catch excellence. ~
  • Tony M
    Tony M Posts: 11,203
    edited January 2010
    You could search for a pr. of SDA-CRS's. They are quite beautiful sounding but you would need a sub to fill the bottom end.
    Most people just listen to music and watch movies. I EXPERIENCE them.
  • NJPOLKER
    NJPOLKER Posts: 3,474
    edited January 2010
    You could search for a pr. of SDA-CRS's. They are quite beautiful sounding but you would need a sub to fill the bottom end.

    Tony I hear ya but what I "need" to hear is the more recent monitors type speakers, if you know what I mean.
  • treitz3
    treitz3 Posts: 19,249
    edited January 2010
    Why monitors, if you don't mind me asking? Yes, BTW but they can go a little lower than that...
    ~ In search of accurate reproduction of music. Real sound is my reference and while perfection may not be attainable? If I chase it, I might just catch excellence. ~
  • Face
    Face Posts: 14,340
    edited January 2010
    Are you prepared for a lack of low end?
    "He who fights with monsters should look to it that he himself does not become a monster. And when you gaze long into an abyss the abyss also gazes into you." Friedrich Nietzsche
  • NJPOLKER
    NJPOLKER Posts: 3,474
    edited January 2010
    I have heard that monitors have a sound all to their own. My SRS2's sound really really really good. I am not looking to replace them, yet but am thinking I "need" to hear a pair of monitors for myself. It's kind of like I have to hear for myself what all the hype is all about.
    Am I nuts?
  • NJPOLKER
    NJPOLKER Posts: 3,474
    edited January 2010
    Face wrote: »
    Are you prepared for a lack of low end?

    No :(:confused::rolleyes::eek:

    Maybe what I need is Preparation H
  • Zitro
    Zitro Posts: 864
    edited January 2010
    I love my Monitor 5's. Very open, warm midrange. For $1k, I REALLY like the B&W 684; give them a try. That's the speaker I want to get for my 2 channel setup; gonna take out a little extra "grad school" loan money lol. If you are already gonna have to take out over %60k, whats another 1k?
    - Jeremy

    Amps: Jolida FX-10, NAD 3045, NAD C320BEE, Sansui G-9700
    Speakers: Polk Monitor 7A's, KEF Reference 104aB
    Sources: ProJect Debut Carbon, Sonos streaming FLAC
  • cnh
    cnh Posts: 13,284
    edited January 2010
    I'm interested in hearing a set of Monitors as well...but mostly out of curiosity about things like the Peerless tweeter, etc.

    cnh
    Currently orbiting Bowie's Blackstar.!

    Polk Lsi-7s, Def Tech 8" sub, HK 3490, HK HD 990 (CDP/DAC), AKG Q701s
    [sig. changed on a monthly basis as I rotate in and out of my stash]
  • sk1939
    sk1939 Posts: 295
    edited January 2010
    Whats wrong with monitors, some people really like them, although there is no such thing as a flat sound without having an EQ as human hearing isn't flat. Personally, I like my monitors, although they are considerably different from the B&W's lol.

    Flat Amp:
    _________

    Human Hearing (Bell Curve or so):
    ___
    ____

    Whats needed to balance it: Something that does the opposite or the curve (upside down bell curve).
    _______
    Home:
    Onkyo TX-6500MKII/Polk LSI 9's (A)Polk TSi 100(B)/Polk PSW 10/Onkyo C-S5VL/Technics SL-QD33
    Home 2 (Playback):
    Dynaudio BM5A MKII/Dynaudio SUB 250MC/Audigy 2 ZS
    College:
    JBL LSR 2325P/JBL 2310SP/MOTU UltraLite MKIII
  • ben62670
    ben62670 Posts: 15,969
    edited January 2010
    Vintage monitor 7's. Upgrade the XO. I liked the 7's more than any other vintage monitors. Another great speaker is vintage A/D/S's. Superb tweeter. My next set of speakers are going to be Vandy's or A/D/S's. Focals are super sweet, but they don't do lows good at all.
    Please. Please contact me a ben62670 @ yahoo.com. Make sure to include who you are, and you are from Polk so I don't delete your email. Also I am now physically unable to work on any projects. If you need help let these guys know. There are many people who will help if you let them know where you are.
    Thanks
    Ben
  • dorokusai
    dorokusai Posts: 25,577
    edited January 2010
    I'd take a pair of monitors any day, they're more fun.

    I wouldn't invest in upgrading a pair of LSi with the thought you'll recoup most of that in resale, so keep that in mind. I think Ben's suggestion of a modded pair of MON7 would be a really cool idea since you like Polk's. The cost is low on either end in regards to speaker and upgrade.
    CTC BBQ Amplifier, Sonic Frontiers Line3 Pre-Amplifier and Wadia 581 SACD player. Speakers? Always changing but for now, Mission Argonauts I picked up for $50 bucks, mint.
  • cnh
    cnh Posts: 13,284
    edited January 2010
    Focals are very very nice....I'm definitely saving my pennies for some towers...mid to low range of course..not Utopia IIIs!

    cnh
    Currently orbiting Bowie's Blackstar.!

    Polk Lsi-7s, Def Tech 8" sub, HK 3490, HK HD 990 (CDP/DAC), AKG Q701s
    [sig. changed on a monthly basis as I rotate in and out of my stash]
  • ben62670
    ben62670 Posts: 15,969
    edited January 2010
    The inverted beryllium dome tweeter is the shiznit.
    Please. Please contact me a ben62670 @ yahoo.com. Make sure to include who you are, and you are from Polk so I don't delete your email. Also I am now physically unable to work on any projects. If you need help let these guys know. There are many people who will help if you let them know where you are.
    Thanks
    Ben
  • Face
    Face Posts: 14,340
    edited January 2010
    ben62670 wrote: »
    The inverted beryllium dome tweeter is the shiznit.
    My favorite hard dome tweeter as well.
    "He who fights with monsters should look to it that he himself does not become a monster. And when you gaze long into an abyss the abyss also gazes into you." Friedrich Nietzsche
  • tonyb
    tonyb Posts: 33,020
    edited January 2010
    Seeing that he's used to the SRS 2's, and likes the sound, no monitor is going to give you that without an added sub...or 2. Of coarse there are some supurb monitors out there but pricey also. Whats the budget ? Phil keeps drooling over his AAD's with dual subs but that set up maybe too costly. The upgraded monitor 7's would make a great bang for your buck start,but I would still add a sub into the mix. Buy the LSI's used, add a sub, then decide if upgrading the crossover is worth it to you. For the price, the 9's are still a steal when you look at the other offerings from high end makers.
    HT SYSTEM-
    Sony 850c 4k
    Pioneer elite vhx 21
    Sony 4k BRP
    SVS SB-2000
    Polk Sig. 20's
    Polk FX500 surrounds

    Cables-
    Acoustic zen Satori speaker cables
    Acoustic zen Matrix 2 IC's
    Wireworld eclipse 7 ic's
    Audio metallurgy ga-o digital cable

    Kitchen

    Sonos zp90
    Grant Fidelity tube dac
    B&k 1420
    lsi 9's
  • Ricardo
    Ricardo Posts: 10,636
    edited January 2010
    There's no better monitor than this one (don't pay attention to what others will tell you):

    http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?spkrmoni&1267049377&/Dynaudio-Contour-1.3-MkII-blac
    _________________________________________________
    ***\\\\\........................... My Audio Journey ............................./////***

    2008 & 2010 Football Pool WINNER
    SOPA
    Thank God for different opinions. Imagine the world if we all wanted the same woman
  • dorokusai
    dorokusai Posts: 25,577
    edited January 2010
    tonyb wrote: »
    Seeing that he's used to the SRS 2's, and likes the sound, no monitor is going to give you that without an added sub...or 2.

    If he's expecting full range performance from a monitor, then he probably shouldn't have this as a hobby. I'm presuming he's not retarded but he is from New Jersey.
    CTC BBQ Amplifier, Sonic Frontiers Line3 Pre-Amplifier and Wadia 581 SACD player. Speakers? Always changing but for now, Mission Argonauts I picked up for $50 bucks, mint.
  • anhchungdoan
    anhchungdoan Posts: 760
    edited January 2010
    dorokusai wrote: »
    If he's expecting full range performance from a monitor, then he probably shouldn't have this as a hobby. I'm presuming he's not retarded but he is from New Jersey.


    Touche'. I always have a "thing" for monitor speakers from Paradigm S2, Polk LSi7/9 to NHT classic 3...They are what they are, monitor speakers. If a listener is a head-banger type, then full range speakers are the way to go.:rolleyes:
  • dorokusai
    dorokusai Posts: 25,577
    edited January 2010
    I've certainly said it here before but my favorite loudspeakers have always been monitors or bookshelf types. Full range speakers always have expectations and you can't help but be suprised by a smaller speaker.
    CTC BBQ Amplifier, Sonic Frontiers Line3 Pre-Amplifier and Wadia 581 SACD player. Speakers? Always changing but for now, Mission Argonauts I picked up for $50 bucks, mint.
  • hearingimpared
    hearingimpared Posts: 21,136
    edited January 2010
    tonyb wrote: »
    Seeing that he's used to the SRS 2's, and likes the sound, no monitor is going to give you that without an added sub...or 2. Of coarse there are some supurb monitors out there but pricey also. Whats the budget ? Phil keeps drooling over his AAD's with dual subs but that set up maybe too costly. The upgraded monitor 7's would make a great bang for your buck start,but I would still add a sub into the mix. Buy the LSI's used, add a sub, then decide if upgrading the crossover is worth it to you. For the price, the 9's are still a steal when you look at the other offerings from high end makers.

    I've heard Phil's AADs and they sound superb. They dig pretty low too with a rear firing port. Not as much as my SDAs but I believe the AADs are rated down to 27hz. If memory serves me correctly, he has them a good six feet from the back wall. I've not heard them yet with the subs but I'm planning a visit before the end of this month.

    They may be a little pricey for what you are looking for but they do come up on audiogon every now and then.

    BTW those little suckers are very heavy. I believe they are internally lead lined.
  • anhchungdoan
    anhchungdoan Posts: 760
    edited January 2010
    dorokusai wrote: »
    I've certainly said it here before but my favorite loudspeakers have always been monitors or bookshelf types. Full range speakers always have expectations and you can't help but be suprised by a smaller speaker.

    I may have my **** kicked by folks over Audiogon but the Polk LSi7/9 ,IMO is nothing less than the expensive b & w 805. :D
  • tonyb
    tonyb Posts: 33,020
    edited January 2010
    dorokusai wrote: »
    If he's expecting full range performance from a monitor, then he probably shouldn't have this as a hobby. I'm presuming he's not retarded but he is from New Jersey.

    ROTFLMAO !!!

    Yeah,I should take everything into account.:D
    HT SYSTEM-
    Sony 850c 4k
    Pioneer elite vhx 21
    Sony 4k BRP
    SVS SB-2000
    Polk Sig. 20's
    Polk FX500 surrounds

    Cables-
    Acoustic zen Satori speaker cables
    Acoustic zen Matrix 2 IC's
    Wireworld eclipse 7 ic's
    Audio metallurgy ga-o digital cable

    Kitchen

    Sonos zp90
    Grant Fidelity tube dac
    B&k 1420
    lsi 9's
  • mmadden28
    mmadden28 Posts: 4,283
    edited January 2010
    Are you talking about a Monitor style of speaker? or Polk Monitor models?
    If Polk Newer or Vintage?

    I have a few sets of vintage Polk Monitors, so you're welcome to try a set out if your interested. I'll shoot you a PM when I get home from work.
    ____________________
    This post is a natural product. The slight variations in spelling and grammar enhance its individual character and beauty and in no way are to be considered flaws or defects.

    HT:Onkyo 805, Emotiva XPA-5, Mitsu 52" 1080p DLP / polkaudio RTi12, CSIa6, FXi3, uPro4K
    2-chnl : Pio DV-46AV (SACD), Dodd ELP, Emotiva XPA-1s, XPA-2, Odyssey Khartago, LSi9, SDA-SRS 2 :cool:, SB Duet, MSB & Monarchy DACs, Yamaha PX3 TT, SAE Tuner...
    Pool: Atrium 60's/45's
  • pearsall001
    pearsall001 Posts: 5,094
    edited January 2010
    I've heard Phil's AADs and they sound superb. They dig pretty low too with a rear firing port. Not as much as my SDAs but I believe the AADs are rated down to 27hz. If memory serves me correctly, he has them a good six feet from the back wall. I've not heard them yet with the subs but I'm planning a visit before the end of this month.

    They may be a little pricey for what you are looking for but they do come up on audiogon every now and then.

    BTW those little suckers are very heavy. I believe they are internally lead lined.

    Joe, the sofa is awaiting your arse!! I guarantee you that you'll leave here with your head spinning after hearing the AAD's mated with the dual Velo subs. You thought they sounded superb without the subs...oh boy, you're in for a real treat my man. And they sure do hit mighty low, 30Hz without breaking a sweat & are quite heavy at almost 50lb apiece, especially for their size (13x13x9). They are a bit pricey but well worth every penny. They very rarely show up on the 'gon because guys just don't part with them. If you do find a pair they usually go for around $1700-1900. New will set you back $3k.

    NJPOLKER is more than welcome for a listen when we set up a date. I think it's a hike for him from N. Jersey though. But itt would be a trip well remembered.
    "2 Channel & 11.2 HT "Two Channel:Magnepan LRSSchiit Audio Freya S - SS preConsonance Ref 50 - Tube preParasound HALO A21+ 2 channel ampBluesound NODE 2i streameriFi NEO iDSD DAC Oppo BDP-93KEF KC62 sub Home Theater:Full blown 11.2 set up.
  • MillerLiteScott
    MillerLiteScott Posts: 2,561
    edited January 2010
    NJPOLKER.

    I would suggest a set of Totem Monitors if you like the Polk sound. I would not waist your time with B&W (IMHO). I have had the same bug as you for a while and I went the super cheap route. I bought a pair of the Best Buy Insignia's $40 and change. They will give you a little taste of what a bookshelf sounds like. I am past that stage now and I have been trying a sub out with them to see how I like that. I did mod the Insignia's with new crossover caps and resistors @ $ 20 so I am never out of a lot of money. I think playing around with monitors is fun, Playing around with full range speakers is more like work, and besides I have already done that.

    What I have found is that the midrange sounds different with monitors than the full range speakers and it may be the bass masking some of the midrange. I am also a fan of a single tweeter over multiple tweeters.
    I like speakers that are bigger than a small refrigerator but smaller than a big refrigerator:D
  • NJPOLKER
    NJPOLKER Posts: 3,474
    edited January 2010
    Lasareath wrote: »
    Drew,

    I think you need to upgrade the SRS 2's, get a pair of 2.3TL's or 1.2TL's and forget this notion about monitors

    Sal

    Not going to happen anytime soon. I just need to hear the "small" speaker for myself.
    Ricardo wrote: »
    There's no better monitor than this one (don't pay attention to what others will tell you):

    http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?spkrmoni&1267049377&/Dynaudio-Contour-1.3-MkII-blac

    Thanks I'll keep an eye out for them.
    dorokusai wrote: »
    If he's expecting full range performance from a monitor, then he probably shouldn't have this as a hobby. I'm presuming he's not retarded but he is from New Jersey.

    Funny stuff right there. Yes I am retarded for living here in New Jersey.
    As I have stated before I don't see how the little speakers/monitors can compete with the big guys. I have been told they do have some area's of performance that are outstanding, imagining for one.

    mmadden28 wrote: »
    Are you talking about a Monitor style of speaker? or Polk Monitor models?
    If Polk Newer or Vintage?

    I have a few sets of vintage Polk Monitors, so you're welcome to try a set out if your interested. I'll shoot you a PM when I get home from work.

    Thanks for the nice offer. I am really looking at new style monitors.
    Joe, the sofa is awaiting your arse!! I guarantee you that you'll leave here with your head spinning after hearing the AAD's mated with the dual Velo subs. You thought they sounded superb without the subs...oh boy, you're in for a real treat my man. And they sure do hit mighty low, 30Hz without breaking a sweat & are quite heavy at almost 50lb apiece, especially for their size (13x13x9). They are a bit pricey but well worth every penny. They very rarely show up on the 'gon because guys just don't part with them. If you do find a pair they usually go for around $1700-1900. New will set you back $3k.

    NJPOLKER is more than welcome for a listen when we set up a date. I think it's a hike for him from N. Jersey though. But itt would be a trip well remembered.

    First off are you retarded :p:D:eek: I know I am for living in NJ. If I have an opportunity to get to south Jersey I will take you up on your offer.
    NJPOLKER.

    I would suggest a set of Totem Monitors if you like the Polk sound. I would not waist your time with B&W (IMHO). I have had the same bug as you for a while and I went the super cheap route. I bought a pair of the Best Buy Insignia's $40 and change. They will give you a little taste of what a bookshelf sounds like. I am past that stage now and I have been trying a sub out with them to see how I like that. I did mod the Insignia's with new crossover caps and resistors @ $ 20 so I am never out of a lot of money. I think playing around with monitors is fun, Playing around with full range speakers is more like work, and besides I have already done that.

    What I have found is that the midrange sounds different with monitors than the full range speakers and it may be the bass masking some of the midrange. I am also a fan of a single tweeter over multiple tweeters.

    Thanks Scott
    Maybe this is desire will pass :o It's nice to read I am not the only one with the curiosity to see how monitors perform compared to full range speakers.
    I'm thinking even if I really love the monitors I'll then have to buy the "right" sub woofer for them and get farther down that damn hole.
    We'll see what happens.
  • Matt34
    Matt34 Posts: 318
    edited January 2010
    I like a good quality floor standing speaker as much as the next guy but I find it hard to beat a properly integrated sub/sat setup. The smaller enclosures are less likely to introduce audible cabinet resonant. Then there is flexibility in placement of a smaller speaker and that it will very likely be different than the ideal placement of the sub in the way both interact within any given room.

    You can also usually move up higher in the model lines for the same price, say for example the B&W 805s as compared to the lower 704 floor stander resulting in better components used.

    The biggest factor in using a sub/bookshelf setup is the "coupling" of the two to give that seamless transition; this is where many of the problems occur and have turned people against such a setup IMO.
  • anhchungdoan
    anhchungdoan Posts: 760
    edited January 2010
    You really need to try a pair of Energy RC10. For $299.00 a pair , it will be money well spent.

    I bought 2 pairs and a third pair is on ordered. All I can say is they are my kind of monitor speaker among a handful monitor/ bookshelf speakers that I like.