If not already sole, your Kef Ref 3s properly matched with a sub (or two), might surprise you big time. That said, if you remain dead set against a sub, read no further. We use the three-way Kef Reference 201.2 monitors, which produce not much base, but when paired with a JL F112, we rock LOUD and long with an enormous, crystal clear sound stage with all the chest bump one could ask for. The addition of a sub (and cross-over so as to relieve the Kefs of any bass duty) fundamentally transformed the Kef Ref 201.2. Meanwhile, in a separate system similar to yours (Mac C2500/Mac MC452), we go concert level LOUD with vintage (albeit heavily modded) Polk SDA 1.2TLs. With your budget, obviously there are lots of great choices out there that others have mentioned, but there's something to be said for blasting rock music on some high quality vintage speakers.
Best Rocking Speakers 15K and Under
Been looking around for speakers in the 15K range and under. Most of my music is listened to on Vinyl but recently purchased a Aurender N10 for streaming which I am really happy with. I listen to a very wide range of music, some classical, jazz, classic rock, punk and metal. About 10 years ago I got rid of my 70’s era JBL and Pioneer speakers and they both really played everything well. Now it seems difficult finding the right all around speaker. FYI, I like playing loud and want to hear the bass, but not wanting to go with subs.
So far I have listened with my set-up the new Magico A-3 and was impressed. Also on different gear at a dealer Monitor Audio Platinum 300 (I liked) but wasn’t a fan on the same set-up Totem Wind Design, Aerial 7T or ProAc D48R. In fairness to the Proacs I liked the sound but there was a lot of boominess at the dealer and in a fairly large listening area. Might have to go to a different dealer and listen again. Listened to the Legacy Signatures at Audio Doctor and was really impressed.
So my short list is Magico A-3, Legacy Focus SE, ProAc D-48R. Anything I’m missing that I should hunt down for a demo? I haven’t yet but by the encouragement of my salesman wants me to listen on my exact set-up the Focal Kanta and Sopra as well.
Recently switched my front end and although my current speakers sound 100% better still not low enough and the highs become fatiguing afer awhile.
Currently Gear:
McIntosh C2600 Preamp
McIntosh MC611 Monos
Aurender N10
Dr. Feikert Woodpecker TT with Jelco Tonearm/Koetsu Black Goldline, Denon 301II, Sumiko Blue Point
Speakers Kef Reference 3.
Not willing to change any of my front end, just speakers. (And please no Tektons)
So far I have listened with my set-up the new Magico A-3 and was impressed. Also on different gear at a dealer Monitor Audio Platinum 300 (I liked) but wasn’t a fan on the same set-up Totem Wind Design, Aerial 7T or ProAc D48R. In fairness to the Proacs I liked the sound but there was a lot of boominess at the dealer and in a fairly large listening area. Might have to go to a different dealer and listen again. Listened to the Legacy Signatures at Audio Doctor and was really impressed.
So my short list is Magico A-3, Legacy Focus SE, ProAc D-48R. Anything I’m missing that I should hunt down for a demo? I haven’t yet but by the encouragement of my salesman wants me to listen on my exact set-up the Focal Kanta and Sopra as well.
Recently switched my front end and although my current speakers sound 100% better still not low enough and the highs become fatiguing afer awhile.
Currently Gear:
McIntosh C2600 Preamp
McIntosh MC611 Monos
Aurender N10
Dr. Feikert Woodpecker TT with Jelco Tonearm/Koetsu Black Goldline, Denon 301II, Sumiko Blue Point
Speakers Kef Reference 3.
Not willing to change any of my front end, just speakers. (And please no Tektons)
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- 170 posts total
trknomo , I would recommend spending some time at Audio Connection with John Rutan also. The more you can hear the better. It will help you narrow down your choices to find the right speakers for yourself. |
- 170 posts total