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Bookshelf speaker with electrostatic sound

Hi,

I'm looking for recommendations for an efficient bookshelf speaker for my second system in living/dining area. About 3,000 cu. ft. Vaulted ceiling goes to 14". They will sit on top of 12" deep bookshelves, about 6' high. They'll be used primarily as background music at low to moderate levels.

I've had various electrostatic/tube systems for 30 years. I like the open, quick boxless sound from electrostatics. So naturally that is my reference. I realize I can't replicate that sound in this application, but I thought it may help with recommendations.

Tonal accuracy and balance is important, especially at low to moderate levels. No rolled-off or excessively bright treble, or overemphasized bass or treble for affect. Rear porting or emphasis on porting for bass will probably not work. I'd like to avoid speakers that exhibit nasal qualities. Not interested in speakers that demand really good amplification. I deal with that in my other system.

Initially they'll be paired with Onkyo TX-8555 receiver, but I'll consider a small integrated down the road, tube or SS. Just want to keep it simple for casual listening. Source is radio and digital. Prioritized music tastes are classical, jazz, folk, blues, rock, alternative.

Budget: Less than $1,000.

Thanks!

Scott
sschmidt

Showing 1 response by theogenes

theogenes
1 posts
 
I'm not particularly familiar with the electrostatic sound, but my understanding is that it is a very 'fast,' detailed, and clean sound. With that said, the ATC SCM7s can be found used for under a grand (I got mine on the Gon for considerably less), and I would be absolutely amazed if you can get more detail, clarity, and excellence of tone for the same money as the 7s.

On the downside, they aren't particularly efficient, but they aren't the watt-hogging power suckers they're sometimes made out to be. I'm currently running mine in my second system with an entry level Denon receiver, and it sounds much better than it has any right to.

Hope this helps! Let us know what you decide, or what you get a chance to audition!!
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