Desktop Speakers

Hi Mattlathrop,

There are a few ways you could go: full-range, passive, or active. I have experimented with a lot of custom DIY full-range driver builds in the past and its really hard to listen to any passive speaker up close after hearing a Full-range speaker at close proximity. In addition to passive speakers a majority of professional studio monitors I have heard I have not been very impressed with. Recently though I cam across a set up that I like better then my own full-range design, the Genelec 8010A. Pair these with the 7040A Studio Subwoofer and you have an incredible combo. These Genelec monitors have a incredible imagining and sound stage that really would be hard to improve upon in any way. The best part about it is the crossover between tweeter and woofer sounds like a full range driver. I will say the transient response is not as fast, but these little guys sound so good at low and moderate listening levels. The speakers are very detailed, and the sound while neutral does have a warm sound signature that is not fatiguing. This speaker has a metal tweeter and would be only the second speaker I have heard that I like the treble (My ears gravitate towards Silk Drivers). Honestly after listening to alot of Hi Fi setups this is one of my favorites. I beg to wager if you tried this combo you would be surprised and very happy.  A quick note and word of caution, the speakers by themselves will have a bass that sounds hollow if you don't use a subwoofer with some types of music, but you can pair these guys with even a cheap $200 sub woofer and they sounds fantastic. I know because I tried this combo and I was really impressed. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions. 

I don’t know how they like being placed close to a wall, but the KEF LS50 may be worth a look.  Best of luck. 

The LS50’s are actually near the top of the list. Just need to see if they are too big. The LSX might be better sized but I want something passive. Paying for all the “smarts” seems dumb. 

@mattlathrop 
You might want to check out Audience The One desktop speaker. Some thinks it’s the best in this price range, bettered only by its big brother the 1+1. I have the latter and I think it’s the best regardless of price. Depending on your kind of music, you might need a sub. Good luck. 

The LS50s are also rear ported (although it’s a small port) so something else to consider, but I think the concentric design of the drivers makes them particularly well suited for near field placement.  

What is your preferred, and what is the maximum depth?

QUESTION 1: Do you prefer active desktop speakers ( built-in amp ..direct PC or external source feed with no need for a stand-alone amp). OR ,,,, passive speakers that will driven by a stand-alone separate amplifier?

QUESTION 2: speaker Dimensions HxWxD: 355 x 230 x 236mm

Approx: 14 X 9 X 9.25 inches …..still too big ?

@spenav The one and 1+1 look appealing. Would the 1+1 work against a wall? 
 

@akg_ca @elliottbnewcombjr I think about 6-7” wide is ideal. Similar depth. 9”is too much in either of those dimensions. 
 

@akg_ca slight preference for passive but am ok with active. Also the Wilson’s would be amazing but definitely out of my price range. 

REGA SYSTEM ONE or KEF LSX?

Best active speakers 2022: budget to premium

I just came across this GST-801 specific alignment LP

@mattlathrop 
Unfortunately not. There is s second driver in the back. They need to be away from back wall. 

Off the top of my head two that might work well for you...

Arendal 1961 bookshelf

Aperion Audio Novus Slim N6SR

Both are sealed and shallow in depth. The Arendal has a great review with measurements on Erin's Audio Corner.

If you at all care about bang for the buck, it might be futile to try surpassing Dayton Audio B452-Air’s for $44.

With no toe in they sound like putting on $400 planar cans, sans the lowest octave or so. I have a sub with the planars on my desk and don’t miss it for 99% of music.

Or you can chase "the best."

Good luck.