Sonicbob, These are superb sounding speakers. I have lived with a pair for about a year now and love them. These speakers are capable of throwing a huge, well defined soundstage with the proper electronics. I use a Plinius 8150 integerated amp and a Sony SCD-1 SACD player. The secret with the AR1 is to keep them away from the back and side walls. Mine are 4 feet from the back wall and 30 inches from the side and also keep the Bass control turned down, between 1 and 1.75. The alpha Core M1-2(speaker)and Micro Purl Silver (interconnects) works well and are priced right. Once these speakers are set up properly you will be amazed at the low Frequency extension and the silky smooth delicate mid and high range. They are great for home theatre also. They only show up source noise If the source has noise. I have noticed none with my Plinius. I know you will enjoy them if you buy them. They are rated a Solid Class B speaker in Sterophile Mag. Best Regards, Dave Hubbard thehub@sonic.net 707-836-0804