Thanks for the suggestions. I've heard good things about both Merlins and Montanas, but they aren't available locally, so they didn't make the cut.
Advice requested on speakers
I'd appreciate your thoughts...I'm looking at Vandersteen Quattro Woods, 5a's, Revel Ultima Studio 2's, Focal 1037BE's to pair with my AR VT100iii. Speakers will need to be close to the front wall, on the long wall of a 19' x 14' x 9' room. I listen to classical (orchestral and smaller), jazz, acoustic instrumentals, vocals, and some rock. I prize full range, timbral accuracy, and soundstage and speakers need to pair well with my amplification. I'm disinclined to rear ports, or I'd also be considering Sophia 2's, Verity's, VR Sr's...Thanks for all your help.