Low Volume Listening?

[awkaplan]

No, I didn’t audition the standmount models as I want floorstanders. The FS 407 and 409 are SAMed, but the .2 versions aren’t. I used the 407 SAM profile when I auditioned the 407.2 and it seemed to work fine, but I usually turn SAM off when I’m listening.
Give the Elacs a try. I think you’ll like them.

I’ll give them a shot.  After hearing what SAM does for my 707s, it’ll be tough to run a non-SAM bookshelf.  I have a feeling the current “OK” state of low-volume listening is due to SAM.  I’m going to try 3-6 sets of speaker cables to see if perhaps that is the extra nudge I need.

There are several ELAC standmount versions of the speakers I auditioned that are SAMed, the ones to go for are the models with the Jet tweeter, which have a grille through which you can see the folded foil membrane.

Great.  I’m examined the line and found myself drawn to the Vela (?) line. Wonder if it can share SAM profiles?  I know Synergistic is a fan of their line.  

The low volume issue is probably not going to be a solution without isolating feet or swapping neighbors—knocked out with an album on repeat at -35dB and had security knocking on my door regarding a noise complaint!  Also partly wonder if a larger speaker may be less likely to disturb upper and lower neighbors at lower volumes.