Kef LS50s - great like me but need to come up for air


So over the years I've really enjoyed my primary speaker the Kef LS50s. They work well in my current setup: Schiit Aegir, NAD preamp (class A) in a small room (11'x14').

Maybe I like them so much because they are very much like me: precise, balanced, neutral but not overly. Contrary to many they are more on the warm than bright side. You just need to know how to place them and match them to the right components. Like me :)

However, l've gone through a change. I need to and been told by my wife and doctors that I need to relax some and come up for air. I've been working on this for the past 2 years. Now I've seriously realized my beloved music system has come to the same change point.

Like me and my ears I'd like to find a speaker with the same basic qualities of the LS50s but that can come up for air - call it more relaxed, warm...whatever. Those in the know will know what I mean. I can explain this more if necessary.

My budget is up to 1,500.00...I've online researched Harbeths, Dynaudio Evoke 20, Usher, Spendor but don't really know where to go from here. I've thought about higher sensitivity speakers but most quality speakers are physically too large (maybe).

Any input is appreciated.

lmartinez_02170

@lmartinez_02170 

" Maybe the best Jaguar for post middle aged male."

Just don't too far and end up with a 1959 Cadillac with bad suspension.

touche tony1954.

I won't end up there but I will have fun along the way!

So far the Heresy, Dynaudio Evoke 40 or maybe Evoke 20 and the small Harbeths look appealing. I'm leaning towards Dynaudio just by online research.

The Usher looks too expensive and the Vandersteen is just too big. I do care a little about room aesthetics.

Can anyone comment on the sound of the Heresy, they look interesting and I like the retro look. The Harbeths have a lot of reviews but mainly for near field??? My listening position is about 7 feet away from the LS50s.

Again...thanks everyone for the input. Any other speakers I should consider.

 

I know you said you wanted to stay at $1500, but I got a pair of Alta Audio Rhea's on Ebay for $2500 to replace my LS50's and it was just what the doctor ordered: more relaxed but still great imaging and detail. And 10 or 15 hz more bass response.  I had spent a lot of time and money on room treatments and tube gear to try to tame the LS50's, which always annoyed my aging ears.  I wanted exactly what you say you want, and I got it.

Step out of the box, speaker box that is.  Try the Magnepan LRS introductory model.  Don't like it?  Full refund, less shipping.