Alternatives to Klipsch Forte II

Since you have a smaller room, you should then consider the Forte I and Chorus I, which are both front-ported. You might also consider the KLF-10, as it has a smaller footprint.

Ther Heresy is a solid recommendation as well.

I have the Forte II's with the excellent Bob Crites upgrades - diaphragms and crossovers. Mine are not bright in my room with my tube gear. Putting them close to the wall and especially in corners really loads the room with bass and makes them sound fuller, something I like. I also supplement with a subwoofer. With high-efficiency horn speakers you need to think about how much gain your system has. My preamp has a very good volume control and it makes all the difference for quiet listening. IMO they are very dynamic and realistic with the right upstream components. Most vintage Klipsch are affordable relative to audiophile stuff, and horns in general are amenable to DIY.

Hmm I could potentially rearrange my room if I find some Forte II. I really just want to give them a shot, I've heard such good things. But I'll keep my eyes peeled for the heresy and KLF 10s as well. I currently have some non-descript Sony receiver/cd player that I plan on upgrading after I get some speakers. Any recommendations on affordable electronics to pair with any of these suggestions?

And I'll ask again what impact hard wood floors have on these speakers. I live in a 3rd floor apt and am concerned about the sound carrying downstairs, though the apt has thus far proved pretty sound proof.

Also, how's the bass on the Heresy?

I have some Cerwin Vega CLS 215's. I think for $800 new to your door(a1components), you CANT beat them. Your going to hear some comments here, but they dont own or havent heard them, I assure you. There do some things as good as Ive heard. Is your room closed in with a door, or is a wall or two open?

You will have to get them off the floor a little, and break in is along time also, but as a past owner of ML's, Magnepans, Paradigms, Definitive,Gallos, +more, these are a insane value at $800. Specially if you already like & listen to horns. You wont need a sub, and this is just about the pinnacle of home theater speakers(I use 4qty) you could use.

These arent the ideal hi end audiophile speaker some seek for, but they make great music & have a nice sound after there harsh break in period. If you just want to enjoy music and have fun, these are great!