Best bookshelf speakers for bookshelf placement

The Coincident triumph is perhaps the cleanest most transparent good staging true bookshelf sized speaker Ihave heard but it tends to lack good bass extension . They have unreal treble if your a fan of that. I have also liked earlier versions of the VR1 from Von Schwiekert which is more balanced overall. I heard both of these on shelves not stands, but that doesn't mean they wouldn't really be better on stands away from the wall. I own the SB-2 from NHT they are neutral more laid back and have better bass but aren't nearly as defined as the above. They seem almost impervious to placement and if you like them they are a fraction of the cost. I'll sell you mine if your interested.

Just an additional note about the NHT SB2's ... I didn't appreciate how nuanced these sealed box speakers could be until I paired them with a Prima Luna Prologue Two tube integrated amplifier. Most people would not pair a $1350 amp with $400 speakers ... I did on a lark and I could not believe that these were the same speakers that I was using in a bedroom system with a vintage Marantz receiver. And I was doing every questionable placement that one could do with these speakers ... I had them on shelves, on their sides, inside a bookcase about 4 1/2 feet off the ground. One of the most musical speakers I have heard under a grand ($400 list) . Now that the SB line is being phased out, I am seriously considering purchasing a new pair of SB-3s and replacing the Omegas that I have currently paired with the Prima Luna. I am not slighting any other speaker, I just think that NHT doesn't get its due because most would classify NHT as mid fi.

Regards, Rich

Thanks for the great feedback so far. Tarsando, I too am aware of the new Wilson Duette speakers and cannot wait until any nearby dealer gets a pair to demo.

While some friends are fortunate enough to have dedicated listening rooms for their 2 channel system, I must live with my real world constraints.

I am surprised that nobody mentioned any Meridian speakers, as I also wonder if their new 3100 powered model might offer a good option.

Von Schweikert VR-1s.

I'll second the North Acoustics Spirit recommendation - we have a pair (in Sapele finish) in a built-in bookshelf in our family room and they sound great. They're close together, so not much imaging to speak of, but the bass reinforcement of the cabinet balances them out nicely. The speaker is also very well finished, so no concerns there. Good luck!