Second System Options: Aeon I or SL3?

[edwinr]

Hey guys,

Considering a second system and a pair of Aeon I's or SL3's (with new panels). Both are the same price. I'm leaning towards the Aeon I's as they are a newer speaker, but...

Also does anyone have views on the Anthem A2 power amp driving ML speakers. The asking price for this amp with the stated manufacturer's specs makes it seem like a bargain. The Anthem would be paired with an Audio Research sp9 preamp.

 

[roberto]

Hola. If I were you, SL-3s with that electronic. Anthem A2 is a great amp made with very good electronic components. The Audio Research SP-9 is a little bit old, but if it is in good condition, you have a nice systmem! Go for it, you will not regret it. Happy listening! Trust your ears, not in specs.

 

[edwinr]

Thanks, Roberto.

The SP9 is in mint condition. I bought it off an infirm elderly gentleman who can no longer enjoy his music

The SL3's are also mint. While they are older than the Aeons, I think they were a much better speaker and maybe new panels should make them competitive with the newer stuff.

I trialed the Anthem at home last week (not with ML's though!) and I can't believe the build quality. The sound I'm not sure of, only because I couldn't audition it on decent speakers (I am currently ML-less). The A2 is stable down to 2 ohms so maybe this amp is a sleeper product for MLs :think:

 

[Bernard]

Edwin, if you want to improve the performance of your SP9 significantly, replace the cheap volume control on the unit with a DACT stepped atttenuator. See my comments on it in my system thread. My apologies if I have mentioned this before.

 

[edwinr]

Thanks, Bernard. I will seriously consider your suggestion. I have been doing some web surfing trying to find out some info on this preamp. Apparently there were mk2 and mk3 versions. But I think I can sufficiently 'tweak' this beautifully built preamp to make it a keeper.

Bernard, your system thread is great. I love your pics.

 

[FoxMulder]

I have owned probably 10 different Martin Logan speakers through the years. The SL3 is still one of my favorites.

 

[Len44]

Honestly can't say about the SL3, but the Aeon i is an absolutely amazing speaker. You are blessed to have a choice between two such superb speakers. Congrats!