Tvad, I've got to agree with your post and I'm glad that you had the chance to audition the new Silverline Preludes. To me, they deliver reference quality sound over most of the audible frequency band at a very low price. But I do have a couple of quick points to add.
The current version has only been available since November 2006, so if one buys a used pair, it may not be the version you heard. The original Preludes were not quite as well-balanced and smooth in the high frequencies, but are comparable in most other ways.
They do not come in "real wood veneer" but the simulated vinyl veneer looks reasonably attractive (although the Rosewood looks more like dark Walnut to me).
Beyond that, bass freaks that require ultra-low, room-shaking bass can always add a decent subwoofer or two. I use mine with a sub about half the time, depending on my mood. As you've implied, bass of the Preludes is substantial, detailed, and satisfying without a sub on most material. This has as much to do with the high quality of the Prelude's bass reproduction as it does with its ultimate bass extension. Cheers!
The current version has only been available since November 2006, so if one buys a used pair, it may not be the version you heard. The original Preludes were not quite as well-balanced and smooth in the high frequencies, but are comparable in most other ways.
They do not come in "real wood veneer" but the simulated vinyl veneer looks reasonably attractive (although the Rosewood looks more like dark Walnut to me).
Beyond that, bass freaks that require ultra-low, room-shaking bass can always add a decent subwoofer or two. I use mine with a sub about half the time, depending on my mood. As you've implied, bass of the Preludes is substantial, detailed, and satisfying without a sub on most material. This has as much to do with the high quality of the Prelude's bass reproduction as it does with its ultimate bass extension. Cheers!