Harbeth sound with high wife acceptance factor?

I was the happy owner of a pair of C7s for many years--great speakers. The only other speaker that I have heard that is as "right" sounding are the Daedalus. I would suggest you take a look at the Athena's--a moderately sized floor stander that is beautiful to look at. If you like the Harbeth sound, then you will like the Daedalus sound even better. And the WAF could not be higher, unless you are looking for something with very modern styling.

I had C7s for many years--loved them. Wanted something larger and floorstanding that sounded as good through the mids and elsewhere if possible. I looked for two years, heard dozens of speakers. None had the Harbeth magic I was seeking until....I found Daedalus. And your wife will love the way they look. And you will love the way they sound. And they are a little more money than you want to spend so maybe you will need to find a pair used....and even then you will need to stretch your budget some...but it will be worth it!