1st time poster looking for speaker recommendation


Hi, I'm a long-time reader but first-time poster. I'm also relatively new to the audiophile world, but am an experienced musician and music collector. Just now trying to build a system to do justice to my decades of LP and CD collections. Ultimately, I hope to convert everything to digital storage so that I can keep track of and access it more easily than I do now. But I'm not willing to sacrifice audio quality for convenience, so I've been waiting quite some time for the gap to narrow, so to speak. Or perhaps I should say 'gaps'--I suspect the solution I'm seeking has been available for quite some time, but beyond my budget.

Over the past few years, I've been slowly accumulating a system through a couple new buys, trades, trade-ups, etc. I'm looking for recommendations on good used full range speakers that will match the kit I've been able to patch together. Mind you, our household functions on the salaries of a journalist and a teacher, and we have a two-year-old boy. That's just to say that there's nothing extravagant here. But I want my boy to grow up hearing the best possible reproduction of the music I've collected--and eventually the music he collects on his own. Any and all suggestions are welcome and appreciated.

My set-up right now:

Audio Refinement Multi 2 (stereo amp in YPA line bought off CL for $200)
NAD c165bee (preamp with phono stage, bought refurbished)
NAD c565bee (cd player with DAC and opt/coax inputs, refurb)
Project Debut III turntable (bought used via EBay for $200)

We're moving in the next couple weeks, so I recently sold my main speakers--NHT ST4's that I bought off the floor of an A/V store in DC 10 years ago. I got a great deal on them and they sounded great to me and my wife. But then again, they were probably the best speakers I've ever had--and I'm sure that doesn't speak well for my audiophile credentials.

Interested in suggestions for full range matches with my set-up. I've been considering PSB Image 5t and 6t, Vandersteens of recent years (like 8-9.- something), NHT absolute classics or towers, Maggie's if there's enough power in my system.

This will be 90% stereo music. I expect to run the tv audio through the pre and stereo speakers as well, but we really only need it to watch the news. Not looking for the surround experience.

If music genre is relevant: 50% jazz and blues, 30% classical (mostly orchestral/chamber), 10% opera, 10% rock/r&b from 60's-90's.

Again, any recommendations will be appreciated.

Thanks.

At some point I plan on buying an old Mac Mini on CL or Ebay, tossing in an SSD with decent cataloguing and playback software, and hooking up one or more drives with ample storage.
barkis
What size is your listening room going to be? Is this going to be a dedicated listening room or more like the den where the stereo will just happen to be? Are there going to be space/size limitations or are you going to have free reign to place the speakers where ever they need to be to sound their best?

What do you consider "full range?" I believe that most speakers can benefit from a good sub woofer at some point.

Just to toss a couple of logs on the fire, I'll throw in the System Audio and Silverline brands of speakers. Both do really well for the types of music that you mentioned.

I've also read many posts regarding the Tekton line of speakers. Lots of guys really like the M-Lore model at $650 a pair, new.
Barkus-

the best reccomendation would be for you to get out and listen to as many brands as you can. All speakers have a sonic flavor, some bright and forward, some relaxed and laid back, most somewhere in between. Find what is pleasing to you and syncs well with your current electronics. Check out any audio stores in your area, they can be a good source of components and knowledge.
Good Luck.
I can add that over 25 years ago I purchased (used) a B&O 5000 system. The original owner opted for Vandersteen model 1 speakers as he felt they were much better than the B&O offerings. I did listen to and enjoy them for many years. (still have them in storage). For the prices they go for on the used market, I feel they are a great bargain. Of course, you should take your time, listen to good recommendations here, which you are, and try to audition whatever you can. Good luck
For value...I find it hard to beat older Infinity alpha, beta, or interlude series floorstanders...well built, competent engineering, and a surprising relaxed, yet highly musical presentation...these are more European voiced than the current primus line...and plentiful on the used market often for peanuts...be sure to install speaker spikes
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There are a lot of great speakers out there, but I like Vandersteen the best and that is what I currently use in my main system. You should be very happy with a pair of 1's or 2's. Even if you don't get a current production model, you should still get very good sound. One thing that you will have to consider is how powerful your amp is. I don't find Vandersteens all that difficult to drive, but I can tell you that the Model 1 is very easy to drive. You can use just about anything. Starting with the 2's, I find they need a little more power. Its just something to consider.
I am not familiar with your gear. But since you understand the value of buying used, your options are greatly enhanced. My system was purchased the same way. The Vandersteen suggestion is good one to begin auditioning with in the used market. Good luck to you two with your boy.
Just teach him to keep his fingers from poking the drivers :) HA
Giving your taste of music, mostly jazz, blues, and classical; I would suggest a pair of Vandersteen Model 2ce. It is time tested, reasonably priced, particularly good for jazz and classical, and will last a very long time.