Passive Bookshelf Speaker Selection

Ellac or Advent 1

They're clear, detailed, powerful, have plenty of bass, and represent a killer value.  

@hartf36

or you are overexaggerating. The fact that you mention no downsides proves that. 

I’m pleased to share my opinion in an effort to be helpful but as we know, it’s only an opinion; it’s subjective...based upon my equipment (Arcam), my room (home office, about 12’x15’), my musical preferences and my ears. I’ve owned Klipsch, KEF and B&W bookshelf speakers and while all of them I found satisfying, of course each had their own sonic signature. Klipsch I found bold, forward and fast...great dynamics too, but I wouldn’t consider them “warm” or highly detailed. Great for rock and jazz; less satisfying with classical.

KEF, while a touch more laid back and less dynamic than Klipsch, had more detail and texture...with a deeper soundstage. Upper midrange was excellent, and vocals were clearer and more precise than the Klipsch.

Finally, while also less dynamic and forward than Klipsch, B&W for me had the best overall balance and a greater sense of realism. The overall presentation seemed more ‘right’ for a small speaker..with the widest and deepest soundstage, better and more clearly defined spatial imaging, and fluidity between the lower and upper frequencies. And yes, of the three of them I feel B&W has the most “warmth”.

i hope this is helpful. Enjoy the process, and I trust you’ll make the right decision...and love the decision you make.

or you are overexaggerating. The fact that you mention no downsides proves that.

Save your false choices, Skippy.  I have neither the time nor the inclination. 

Try a used Vandersteen model 1.Great sound that you can pick up for a few hundred bucks or less.It's 36" high and 10" wide. Vandersteen has dedicated stands which you probably find on Ebay or other used sites.