Back in mid 80s I remembered replacing my ML CLSII to the then new Energy Reference Connoisseur 22 (a model with wooden stand integrated to the speaker as one single unit, nice and solidly built, pretty heavy too). RRP then was around the range of CLSs, $2k-2,5k. Drove them with a Sony ES cdp, VTL Ultimate Pre, and VTL225 Amp. The ERC 22 were truly transparent, coherent and neutrally balanced speakers with excellent smooth highs and great bass extension that belie their size! Pop, Rock, Jazz and R&B were their forte. I still considered those today to be one of the more musically satisfying set-up I've had.
Eventually looking for a change, I replaced them with the MGIIIa in '87, but thereinafter found often times missed the Energy's overall all round musical abilities. I am not currently familiar with their line-ups, nor to which direction the helm been taking the brand since. But assuming they have progressed right, I'd certainly place them high amongst your must audition list. Having owned and lived with the Response 3.5 & 4s, I'd also vote for the ProAcs, excellent speakers, however, harder to get right and more demanding of upstream components compared to the Energy (if memory serves right).
Eventually looking for a change, I replaced them with the MGIIIa in '87, but thereinafter found often times missed the Energy's overall all round musical abilities. I am not currently familiar with their line-ups, nor to which direction the helm been taking the brand since. But assuming they have progressed right, I'd certainly place them high amongst your must audition list. Having owned and lived with the Response 3.5 & 4s, I'd also vote for the ProAcs, excellent speakers, however, harder to get right and more demanding of upstream components compared to the Energy (if memory serves right).