Loudspeaker Recommendations: Standmount or Small Footprint Floorstanding under $2k


Hi there,

Having received great recommendations here over the years I figured I’d check back in while I’m considering my next move.

Current system:
-- Totem Rainmakers (on sand filled speaker stands)
-- Heed Obelisk SI III Integrated Amp (built in phono)
-- Bluesound Node 2i into a Chord Mojo DAC
-- Clearaudio Concept TT with MM V2 cartridge
-- Cabling by Audioquest and Signal Cable

Here’s what I currently love about how my system sounds:
1) Instrument articulation is very nice. I really enjoy the timbre of instruments whether it’s the sustain of a drum or cymbal, the crunchiness of distorted electric guitars, or the airiness of an upright bass.

2) Imaging for days... It’s massive and very three dimensional. This makes listening fun and engaging for me.

3) Instrument separation is wide and easy to pinpoint.


I really do love how this system sounds, but am looking for a speaker that can offer more lower end dynamics at reasonable, or relatively moderate, listening volumes. I don’t want super deep bass, but just a touch more to help fill in what’s desired. Does this make sense?

Budget is no more than $2k, but ideally want to spend around $1500, and happy to purchase pre-owned to help stretch my dollars further.

stereosanctity

Showing 3 responses by stereosanctity

Hi folks,

Wow! Thanks for all the replies. Seems like the Nola Boxer is getting a lot of nods so I’ll read up on those.

I’ve done the subwoofer thing in the past and found I was fiddling with the settings more often than sitting and listening. But perhaps moving up to a small Rel will offer better results.

My room is approximately 13’’ wide by 20’ long. It’s an open family room space with a half wall that goes into the kitchen, and also peels off to hallway that’s to the right of the stereo. Not much I can do about that, but I know I’m loosing a lot of bass as it sound moves down the hall.

You can see photos here: https://systems.audiogon.com/systems/7783
[I have since upgraded the TT to a Clearaudio Concept]

As for other brands I’ve demoed I dig ProAcs, Harbeths and Chartwells (although these are out of my budget at the moment). Not sure if that gives an idea of the flavor I’m after.


@wolf_garcia 

The Silverline Preludes seem to fit the bill too.  Very gorgeous looking speakers!  Are those purchased direct.

@big_greg

I went from a Rotel integrated to the Obelisk and feel the improvements have been great. If thinking other areas need a change I wonder if swapping my DAC or Phono Cart will bring results I’m wanting.

Thanks for the few speaker recommendations. I do love Harbeths and have had my eyes peeled for a used pair within my budget.