Best Full Range Speaker, 750- 1k


I am in the process of rebuilding my system, and wanted to tap the Audiogon community's opinions on the best full range speaker in the $750-$1,000 used price range. Right now, the front-runner on my list is the Meadowlark Kestrel Hot Rod. Other speakers I've heard good things about are the Thiel 1.5, PSB Stratus series, and Vandersteen's.

The associated equipment will be a Belles 150A Hot Rod amp, a Rogue 66 pre, and a Sony DV-9000ES CD/SACD/DVD player. I value musicality and an engaging sound above clinical detail, precision and transparency. I listen primarily to classical (chamber and symphonic, some choral), small scale jazz, and female vocals.

I'd appreciate all your comments on the Meadowlark's, how they compare to some of the other speakers I've mentioned, as well as any other recommendations in this price range. Thanks in advance!

Eric
ewha

Showing 3 responses by unsound

IMHO, none of the speakers suggested are full range. The closest I can suggest (there is compromise in bass extension at high volumes) is a pair of used Thiel 3.5's.
Avideo, just to clarify, the Thiel 3.5's will go down low they just won't do it loudly.
Flying, while I agree the Vandersteens would be more on the forgiving side of things, I disagree that they have more bass extension than Thiel 3.5's. Eric, the Meadowlark and Thiels (and others including the recommended Vandersteens) share some similar design principles differing mostly in cabinet design/bass out-put. Finding a general consensus may be quite challenging You'll have to decide for yourself which you prefer. Now that you have clarified full range to mean floor standing, there are many other quality options.