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Bookshelf speakers for $500ish

I'm looking to upgrade my Dynaco A25s to something more compact and modern.

They will be amplified by Marantz 2238B, and I'll be listening to acoustic jazz such as Bud Powell or Miles Davis- a lot of piano trios and small groups with horns.

The room is 10' x 12', and I won't be able to mount them on stands, or be more than a few inches from the back wall.

Budget is $500 or so. I like the idea of buying used, but I'm not up for a very long hunt. New options I'm considering are KEF Q300, B&W 685 S2.

Thanks for your help!
tmcevoy213

Showing 4 responses by kiko65

kiko65
279 posts
 
Either the Rega RS-1 or the Silverline Minuet Supreme Plus will work extremely well on your small room as they are not fuzzy about placement.

Supreme Plus having an advantage on Jazz over the RS-1.

RS-1 having an advantage over the Supreme Plus on Classic/ Small Chamber.
kiko65
279 posts
 
Check out the Vanatoo Transparent Ones if you don't mind buying active. Tons of rave reviews! They start at $499.00 in black with multiple options including Bluetooth and Airplay.

From the Vanatoo website:
"Check out our home stereo speakers in the comfort of your own home with the Vanatoo 30 day audition period. If you decide within 30 days of receiving your Vanatoo speakers that you are not totally satisfied, you can return them for a complete refund. All we ask is that you pay for the return shipping".

Michael Fremer bought the review sample :-)
kiko65
279 posts
 
The Supreme Pluses add more "punch and snap" and are better suited for Jazz.

The RS1s add more "realism and clarity" and are better suited for classical/full scale orchestra.

I really enjoy the piano/string notes coming out of the Supreme Pluses on a small scale like duos, trios, and quartets but it gets a little congested with a full scale orchestra ensemble.

Keep in mind that both are rear ported so you would have to see if they would work in your room.

Good luck.
kiko65
279 posts
 
I would be very cautious to spend that much money on a pair of speakers that will be placed 2-3 inches from the wall. Speakers, specially bookshelf, are extremely susceptible to placement.

Your Marantz is a somewhat decent receiver with a power output of 38 wpc into 8 ohms. Not the last word in resolution and/or power.

$1000.00 speakers may or may not improve sound quality depending on MANY factors. If you ask me, it's a waste of money. For that amount you could buy both, a better amp and speaker combo.

Price will NEVER dictate sound quality. Totem Dreamcatchers ($500.00) for example will blow your mind with classical music; Supreme Pluses ($600) will rock your small room with great satisfaction. Active monitors may be all you need.

Who knows, you may be more than satisfied with the amazing Pioneer SP-BS22-LR ($129.00) in your setting and look no further.

Trust your ears and not your budget.
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