Perhaps a hybrid answer will be right. The Vandersteen speakers at the higher levels feature passive above 100 or 200 hertz (depending on model) with 11 bands of analog eq to adjust the powered bass to your room. They are also set to measure flat at the speaker not the listening position as that is how instruments work. The result is you don't have a brightness that would light up your space. These speakers are the only time and phase correct designs throughout the entire lineup. They are not everywhere as they were in the 80's but if you seek them you will find a great dealer to help you audition them without pressure. If you have trouble arranging a demo just call the factory. Richard Vandersteen (founder) is still there everyday to help you out. I am the global sales manager and can be reached at brad@vandersteen.com
Passive vs Active...Again!
My wife and I have made the rounds and have listened to numerous speakers now, not as many as we'd like, but as many as we could within a 3-hour drive. We liked some both active and passive, but it seems most of the active speakers we saw are not that pleasing to the eye (eg: Genelecs).
Not having a dedicated listening room, our room itself is a big problem. We have lots of hard surfaces to deal with.
If we go with passive speakers and the associated gear to go with it, we will need to spend a whole bunch of money on acoustic treatments.
We have a ton of artwork as well and with already limited wall space, we would rather look at the art than a bunch of sound-absorbing panels.
So here's my question: Will active speakers, that may come in cheaper, with room correction software (DSP) be able to tame the sound to a pleasing level in my lively room, or do I go with passives and break out the Rockwool!
Just a side note, I had some Martin Logan Spires in a very similar style room, that was much larger with little acoustic treatments and they sounded pretty good. But in this house I don't have the room to pull the speakers 3 feet of the back wall.
I know there is no perfect answer here, but appreciate any feedback, thanks.