Dynaudio speakers

Posted by: Jean-Marc on 04 December 2003

Hi,

I am currently looking at new speakers that can go with my system (CDS2/52/135s on Fraim), in replacement of my LS3/5A.

I have a rather small listening room (about 3mx4m), and I do like mini-monitors.

I am looking for something like "super LS3/5A" that would fit well with Naim style and sound (Prat).

There are two Dynaudio models that could fit the bill, the Contour 1.3SE and the Special 25 Anniversary.

Before I try to find a dealer and have demos, I would like to know what is the common thinking on those models, their plus and minuses, and also experience from users.

Many Thanks
Jean-Marc
Posted on: 04 December 2003 by Markus S
The Special 25 has much better PRaT than the 1.3 SE. It's already discontinued, though (I believe it was a pain in the proverbial to make).
Posted on: 04 December 2003 by Jean-Marc
Markus,
from what I've read on Dynaudio Website, they have discontinued the specific birch finish and 25 years warranty, but the model is still available in standard Contour finish.
This SE25 have won rave reviews everywhere I read.
JM
Posted on: 04 December 2003 by Chris Metcalfe
Markus,
Let me know if you want to unload your LS3s.
Chris
Posted on: 04 December 2003 by Frank Abela
Jean-Marc

I don't know the Special 25's. The Contour 1.3's have been discontinued but there are a few new stocks left. The 135s will happily drive late Contour 1.3's or 1.3SE's all day long. It's an excellent speaker with a big sound. They need some space behind them since they are rear ported, so the Specials may be the better alternative.

Have you considered Naim speakers? In your room, you may be better served by them since they go close to the wall. In particular, a late pair of SBLs would work well.

Regards,
Frank.
All opinions are my own and do not reflect the opinion of any organisations I work for, except where this is stated explicitly.
Posted on: 04 December 2003 by ys
the dynamic of this spk, the s25 i mean, is great!
the bass is very impressive considering the size, and the tweeter, the esotar2, is wonderful.
it is neutral and fast, great match to naim amp, audition is recommended.
Posted on: 04 December 2003 by ianrmack
Jean-Marc,

I purchased a pair of Rosewood Dynaudio Special 25s about one month ago. Initially, I drove them with a CD5/FC2/112/150 combo. It was nice, but lacked weight and extension. I currently have a CDX2/202/Hicap2/PSC2/250 and the sound is remarkable. I have no experience with Olive kit. Dynaudios are very neutral so they allow the front end system to truly perform w/o much colouration. Also, the 25s are a little bit more efficient than the earlier Contour series. (4/88 v. 4/86)

I can email you pics if you like.
(ianrmack@yahoo.com)

A+....Ian
Posted on: 07 December 2003 by Jean-Marc
Ross,

quote:
They would also be a logical choice for someone coming from LS3/5As, since Spendor designed them as a replacement for the LS3/5As.


My former dealer, who sold me my pair of LS3/5A, used to have a pair of Spendor s3/5.
He was a long time fanatic of the LS3/5A and didn't really catch on with the new Spendors. He said something like "they have lost the magic".
Don't know myself as I have not heard them, but I feel it would be more of a sidestep than an upgrade, anyway. (and I can't go and listen, dealer is now closed Frown )

I will try later in the new year to find a Dynaudio dealer not too far from where I live and book a demo (for the SE25).
Other speakers I was interested in are the NEAT MFS (but for a demo, I will have to visit Blighty as Neat are not even imported here in France!!!!).

Also, I have to try some Naim speakers, SBLs or IBLs.

Cheers
Jean-Marc
Posted on: 08 December 2003 by Markus S
Jean-Marc,

you might want to take a look at this ebay item.