I've only purchased speakers used. For high end after I turned 25, the Acoustat Xs, Acoustat 2&2s, Martin Logan Quests, Martin Logan Monolith IIIs and for the past 20 years, Legacy Focus and Signature IIIs. The Legacy speakers were a bargain used 20 years ago and have lost about 1/3 of their value since then since they are considered "old" models. I'd have to spend $50-60K for significantly better speakers to do what they do in tone quality, dynamics, bass, off-axis wide response (for multiple listeners) and high sensitivity all wrapped into one for a medium large size room. There are better speakers for less but they give up something of that quintet of features, usually bass, off-axis response or sensitivity. I'm never going back to stats or panels and horn speakers are also out.
Curious what people think is the best "value" high end speaker (~5K to 15K)
I am on a long search for speakers and just curious what people think is the best value both new or used in speakers ranging from around $5000 to $15000? I have a set of Paradigm S8's (V1) and love them but looking for another set for another set in a different listening area (25 x 20?, maybe larger). I love the full sound of JBL's and looking for something in that range (it also helps that JBL's seem to hold their value better than most, which will be a consideration). The only drawback to JBL is footprint. I prefer a smaller footprint which is why after reading I hope to listen to several B&W 800 series but open to suggestions across the board. used Watt Puppies? Revels? I am curious about peoples experience with McIntosh XR100's.