New Audio Note UK AN-E/SEC Signature speakers on their way from the UK.

I heard the SEC and did not even know it. I went to my local dealership and when I went into his Audio Note room, I heard something much better than usual--more alive, vibrant and clear sounding, while being rich and full as usual. I asked the dealer what was different with the setup. He chided me for not noticing that it was not the usual AN-E in the corner of the room. I hardly notice how things look anyway.

Once, I heard a particularly nice presentation in that room and asked about the mono-bloc amps that were driving the system (they looked like generic AN gear). He pointed out that they were Kageki's, which are amps that I own. I had no idea what Kageki's look like when they are facing the right way because I installed mine with the ass facing forward (more convenient because the power switch is on the back of the amp).

 

I’ve heard the SEC Sigs, but they were part of a level 5 system consisting of an Ongaku, M9, CDT 5, DAC5 and the new TT-3. It definitely sounded better than my L3 system, but it was not easy to attribute that to a single component. The feeling portrayed by that system was the closest thing to a live performance I’ve ever experienced. From a small intimate venue to large scale stuff, it didn’t matter; the system was so clearly superior. This type of realism is what drew me to AN, but it really does seem to get better as you move up. And I think AN has done a good job with their level ratings.

So...I think your new speakers will be a great step up. Plus, selling your current E’s shouldn’t be a problem.

 

Congratulations Steve! A lovely perk for all your good works (and good words.)

 

Steve, looking forward to reading your thoughts on the fantastic new speakers!

 

Ohh, I missed that detail. In any event, it will be interesting to hear your thoughts on how the two models compare after you’ve had a chance to get to know the SEC.

 

I think that you would need to give a minimum run in time of 150 hours given the use of the Sogon LX96 as the wiring harness and the larger copper foil caps in the X- overs. The difference in sound over the AN-E SPx internal X over versions will surprise you in playing back recordings you are familiar with. The main frequency range that changes is the bass weight and scale. Mids and highs are significantly more articulate and detail spatial cues catch you out constantly.
Enjoy.

 

Since the new AN speakers and his previous AN speakers (AN/E-AlNiCo) speakers were/are on extended loan to Steve, now the AN/E-AlNiCo will be returned to Audio Note though me as Steve's local Audio Note dealer. So, as of now, they are for sale as demo stock through The Audio Home. If anyone is interested, please PM me.

 

I’ve had mine for around 6 weeks now. They are lovely speakers! Mine were bought from a customer in Lithuania who hadn’t used them for more than a few hours as he decided to buy the Sogon’s instead. My experience has been :

First 40/50 hours or so very good sound then a big drop until around 200 hours. During that phase I wanted my Spe’s back . After that it was a yo yo type upward curve until around 500 hours when the improvements slowed down. At around 650 hours now. To stay they are better than my previous Spe HE is an understatement. More open, detailed, organic and refined with better control. You’ll realise just how good your M9 is when you’ve broke them in.

Happy listening!

 

Do you have any pictures of the AN-E/SPx HE Alnico that are going be replaced?

 

Thanks for sharing the picture. That looks like a very nice finish! I like it better than the darker woods.

What do you use to attach the speaker to the stands?

 

Hopefully, we will get to have a good comparison from Steve first!

So that we can compare apples to apples with this comparison, what would be the current retail price on the AN/E-AlNiCo speakers that Steve currently has on loan?

 

Did any CITES paperwork come with them? I think palisander means rosewood in German.

 

Yeah, love the sound of my 000-28. Mine is probably, indian. I don't begin to understand all of the CITES stuff. I know retailers in the US are hesitant to ship outside of the country becaus of all of the regulations. The veneer on your speakers may not weigh enough, to even qualify.

 

These are magnificent speakers. I have the Spe Signature, and they are deeply fulfilling. The external crossovers make a big difference.

Each to his own, but I think high end AN gear continues to improve even after two years of use! These speakers have a long and beautiful burn in curve