Tinnitus? Lots of things can set it off, like loud noises, caffeine, alcohol, stress, etc. Mine comes and goes, and while I don't think listening to my stereo sets it off (I really don't play it loud) I do think I can set it off with headphones. But, to your point, both of my audio systems have relatively laid-back speakers (Platinum Audio in one system and Elac in the other).
easy listening for small/medium bright room
i bought a pair of pmc db1i to go with a croft integrated, a music hall cd player and a turntable - the room is smallish (12x14ish) with pine walls a wood floor lots of rug and a high ceiling.
i have spent a few days tracking down a high pitched whine in the system - thinking it was a power or grounding issue. I now believe its that the speakers are bothering my ears. You may think this is crazy but after a listening session i have this super hi-pitched cicada kind of noise in my ears for a long time - days perhaps.
Anyway, even if its not the speakers they are a bit too shrill for me. I want something super easy on the ears and with no possibility of discomfort from too forward tweeters. Any suggestions below 3k - used fine.
vandersteen? martin logan? monitor audio? no horns i don't think.
i am not a classical guy more like elvis costello, bonnie rait, neil young - though theres nothing wrong with a little bill evans from time to time.
hopefully,
me