Question Monitor Audio BR2 Upgrade

[soziblewuup]

Hi,

I'm looking to upgrade my Monitor Audio BR2's.

First off, I should probably say I'm not looking to sidestep. It's only going to be worth it, for me, if I'm really going to notice quite a difference. At the same time I'm not looking to spend a fortune (surprise, surprise). Maximum £350ish/ maybe £400 at a real push, so will most likely be looking at the second hand market.

I'm looking for clarity and clear separation (I think). The reason for this is I think the BR2's sound a little coloured in the mids; things can sound a little muddy. I've always liked the highs on the BR2's, they're crispy without being too bright.

My Gear:
- Monitor Audio BR2
- Soundstyle Z2 Speaker Stands
- Pioneer A-676 amp (1991)
Power output: 70 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)
Frequency response: 1Hz to 150kHz
Total harmonic distortion: 0.007%
Damping factor: 70
Input sensitivity: 0.2mV (MC), 2.5mV (MM), 150mV (line)
Signal to noise ratio: 76dB (MC), 94dB (MM), 110dB (line)
Output: 150mV (line)
- BK XXLS400 Sub.

The biggest downside of my set-up is that I have nothing that gives me the ability to EQ / cut the bottom end frequencies of my speakers. The lower frequencies of the BR2 tend to roll into one with the sub, and on occasion it can get a tad boomy.

Anyhow any suggestions / feedback for good speaker pairings with my setup / any other advice.

Much appreciated

edit: Maybe I should mention I listen to a whole range of genres. Classical, electronica, Chill-out etc. Not so much heavy electronic genres like Electro House, and no heavy rock.

 

[PSM1]

I am not sure if they will be in budget and do not come up often but a pair of pmc db1 or tb1 speakers would be worth a look on second hand market. With your budget second hand is the only way you will get a meaningful upgrade in quality.

 

[soziblewuup]

Thanks for the response. I've found some DB1+ £400. I'm struggling to get to grips with all the i's and +'s in the PMC range haha. Any thoughts on the DB1+?

Many thanks for your input.

edit: Would my amp be limiting the improvement in sound quality by buying new speakers in any way?

 

[PSM1]

The i is a newer version. I have the + and they are a great speaker and not that fussy either. Your amp may limit you a bit but that would be the next upgrade.

 

[soziblewuup]

Ok great, well I've contacted a guy who's selling them for a very good price (less than a new set of Bronze 2's. Hopefully I can secure this one!

 

[soziblewuup]

Got them for £275, must be my lucky day.
Thanks for all the help!

 

[PSM1]

That is a great price for them and I am sure you will not be disappointed as they are a great sounding speaker.

 

[soziblewuup]

One more question. How can you tell the difference between a DB1 and a DB1+ visually?
What are the differences between the two?

 

[PSM1]

I think the only visual difference is that it says DB1+ on the rear of them. Either will be a great speaker and you should be able to tell the difference quite clearly. The PMCs will be a lot clearer and give a more balanced sound.

 

[soziblewuup]

They're a pair of DB1+. Hadn't noticed the plus in the top right corner, was wondering if they were miss advertised, but they weren't .
Awesome, can't wait. The coloured mids and slight boom is what I wanted to get away from with the BRs.
Thanks!