The problem with tiny speakers like this is that the sub crossover needs to be high. I had the regular LS50 with SVS sub and they were unsatisfying for all but the lighter stuff. No Zep for you! Even though your room is small, choosing speakers that extend lower in the bass will increase your odds for successful sub integration. You have to consider what the subs are doing above the crossover frequency. If the crossover is too high, the subs will affect frequencies well above that and you will hear the sub trying to play stuff it shouldn’t. ie. if you set the sub to 80Hz, the sub does not stop on a dime at 80Hz...it messes up what’s above that. You can see that for yourself by shutting off your main speakers and playing music through the sub at the loudest levels you listen at. Do a frequency sweep and you may be surprised at what the sub is doing when it isn't being masked by the main speakers. Also you can have a very dynamic sub but if the speakers are small, the dynamics of the sub don’t match the dynamics of the speaker which is another problem. Go big or stay home! Try to find standmounts that extend -3dB to 40-45Hz or lower. If you do, you might find you don't even need subs for music.
Great Small Room Speakers for $3-5k
Hi all, I'm looking to upgrade from my current speakers (Zu Audio Omen) in my small room (13x10x7: WxLxH) and willing to spend $3-5k. I'm looking for a slightly more transparent speaker than the Zu's and also a smaller speaker. I'm open to new and used speakers. So, I've turned my attention to bookshelf speakers and small footprint floorstanders. I have a Rel subwoofer to buttress low end. Most of my listening these days focuses on blues, soul and R&B, classic rock, and alternative hip-hop.
My system is: Rogue Audio Sphinx v3, Bluesound Node 2i, Rega P3 TT, Rel T7/X sub.
My nearest Hifi shop focuses on Harbeth, Spendor, and KEF. So far, I've liked the Harbeth P3ESR and Compact 7s and the Spendor A4. But, I'm curious to get other suggestions. I've been interested in the Devore Fidelity O'Baby but are just above my price range and can't be demoed right now.
Does anyone have experience with those aforementioned speakers in a small room? What else should I consider for a smallish room in this price range?