Speaker Asylum: REVIEW: Spendor S5e Speakers by clesko@hotmail.com

Model:	S5e
Category:	Speakers
Suggested Retail Price:	$1650
Description:	Small 2.5-way Floorstander
Manufacturer URL:	Spendor
Model Picture:	View

Review by clesko@hotmail.com ( A ) on May 02, 2005 at 21:30:25
IP Address: 216.164.204.122

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In terms of comparison I am limited to a handful: Spica TC-60 (own), Spica Angelus w/Muse Sub (own), Revel M20 (auditioned), Totem Hawk (auditioned). In the end I chose the Spendor's for there overall balance and presentation with a wide range of music. The Revel M20's (Now M22) were a very close second...most of what I have to say pertains to the Revel's because it was that close.
The Spendors just sound excellent in the midrange. Using a Rega Planar 3, accoustic guitar's sound full bodied and you can sense the strings twang without being bloated or too thin...they just hit the mark in a believable way. Voices sound "in the room" whether it's a soloist or a large band/orchestra. And, they integrate with my Muse sub well. Let's face it they are not big on bass...but they do extend well (seemingly beyond the 70hz stated...I usually listen without the Muse). I have been most impressed when listening to my Allman Bros. LP's...the organ and tube amps...space between instrements and a satisfying amount of detail.
The Revel's were excellent, however they seemed to do much better with vocal music and jazz (really limited to the two). I couldn't get them to integrate with a sub to a satisfactory level...perhaps others can do better. In addition, the Spendors just had that little bit of "magic" to my ear feeling that kept me going back to the store. In the end that is what it takes for me.
Listening to them for over 6 months I have settled down...for my budget they are thee speaker on the market. If you are looking for new in the $1500 range check these out. And, don't pass up the opportunity to try the Revel's...they definitely win on Soundstage/Imaging...just didn't satisfy my musical range.

Product Weakness: Soundstage/Imaging could be better...bass is limited (hard to find a quality speaker in this price range that isn't unless it compromises other areas).
Product Strengths: Good Midrange, Handle wide range of music

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	Audiolab 8000a
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	None
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Rega Planar 3a
Speakers:	Spendor S5e
Cables/Interconnects:	Straightwire Encore II
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Jazz, Classic Rock, Orchestra
Room Size (LxWxH):	18 x 13 x 12
Room Comments/Treatments:	Furniture, Rug, Books (100+)
Time Period/Length of Audition:	6 months
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	Soundstage/Imaging could be better...bass is limited (hard to find a quality speaker in this price range that isn't unless it compromises other areas).
Product Strengths:	Good Midrange, Handle wide range of music