Well, here it is, the last of the big ones.

I recently sold my aDs L1230s and within an hour was twisted and crushed by remorse.

I needed to sell them- I will lose the last of my storage by September, with all my other storage already gone.

The L1230s were just too big- and got in my way in my smallish room.

Alas- a bright side- I picked up a local pair of L1290s a mere 4 days later, and just got them picked up tonight.


The battle is as follows- get it down to three, maybe two pair.

So, the Dahlquists and Vandersteens see battle. In one arena. Size goes to the DQs only because they can be placed on a record rack- this keeps them in good graces.

The vandersteen goes lower and is a bit more advanced, but harder for me to place correctly in my room.

Plus, the Dahlquists were from some good friends. By default alone, the DQs remain.

So, the other arena? It's the aDs L1290s vs. The AR 9LSis versus the Thiel CS 2s.

Now, the AR9LSi goes lowest, and the Thiels are the most refined and developed, but there was magic to the aDs L1230s I had. If the L1290s can come close, I could honestly see them prove victorious.

The ARs will prove too unruly in my home, as they'll cause issues within the room via standing waves and cancellations, and they really are big'uns. So I do see them finding a new home with a happy new owner.

So, the DQs stay. But do the Thiels? Or the aDs? Can I keep three? Or will I get it to two?

And will I change my mind one last time this summer?

quite a poser to be sure. i would put my money on the Thiels. after that its a crapshoot. should be fun!

I've never heard any of the larger ADS or the CS2 although both have reviewed quite well. I'd like to hear your thoughts on the L1290s after you have had a chance to evaluate them with a good, long listening session!

PS I love my ARs enough that I would certainly consider a second pair although I'm sure the shipping would be monsterous! Particularly since the new surrounds have had over a hundred hours of break in time I find myself enjoying them more and more.

keep the vandy's, not that I am partial to them

I think you've answered your own question. Go with what you will miss the most if all of them had to go.

They are all good speakers. IMO, i should answer that you should keep the ones who have better synergie with your setup, but i wouldn't say that because later on you may change you actual setup, so all i say is that i'm big fan of Vandersteen and Thiel....
Choose wisely.

It should prove interesting to see what becomes of it all.

This is a case where the best may not prove victorious.

Why? I'll use a tired an worn analogy, but one befitting-

Farrari, Lamborghini and Porsche make some of the nicest cars. But they may not be ideal for a trip to the grocery store, an attempt to tow a boat, or to pick up a Christmas tree.

They may not be suited for a trip through the redwood forest, a drive-in theatre, or a long-haul trip on a rough backroad with a family of five.


It's gonna be a trade-off for sure.

so whats the skinny on those L1290's?

Inquiring minds want to know?

they are hooked up, but I haven't honestly had an hour to spend with them. Crazy to have something 5 days and not give 'em an audition but i just haven't found the time.

That should change this weekend though. Hopefully tomorrow.

I'll keep you posted....

i know the feeling. hope the weekend pans out for you.

thanks Scott.

Might sneak a listen in tonight, but surely by Sunday.

Really looking forward to it!

Will look forward to hearing your resolution, Paul.
Let us know what you decide, and what the rationale is for
keeping each set over the ones you excise.
Dennis

Didn't get a listen yet- called into work, and also picked up a new rack and spending most of my time swapping gear around. Shooting for this weekend, and a bit miserable I haven't had time to play any of. 'em now for a good spell....