Speaker Sampler Platter


I’m looking for help putting together a reference list of not ridiculously expensive speakers that are representative of their respective types. 

For example, I bought a pair of Zu Omen DW to get acquainted with the Zu sound for a change after 20 years with the same 87dB ported boxes.

Magnepan LRS is an easy one to put on the list. I’m not sure if Klipsch RP-600M are technically horns, but they should be worth a listen. Probably want to get a little sub to be able to evaluate them fairly against floor standers.

It gets more difficult from there. I know nothing about open baffle, dipole, ribbons, and the rest of the long list of things I don’t know I don’t know. I want to give myself the opportunity to hear at least a few more examples before committing to my next set of “keepers.”

Basic guidelines would be under $1,000 and typical of the sound for its type. I get that some brands are hard to define and might be considered unique. I think budget will require some buying and selling used. I’m not opposed to taking advantage of trial periods though I do get attached easily; I ended up keeping the Omen DW. 


cat_doorman
Don't forget Tivoli. You want to be sure and cover clock radio speakers, right?
Tivoli is the best damn clock radio speaker I’ve ever heard.
I was really only looking at passive speakers for this list. I’m not sure where you’d go to upgrade if you fell in love with the basic sound. Does Tivoli make a floor stander?
Under $1000 but a pair of Alon speakers.  Just find a pair in your price range.


How about just buying the wharfedale lintons at 1199...without stands. That is what comes to mind for a grand brand new.  lots of speaker for the price. Also lots and lots of positive reviews wherever you look. 
Clayton Shaw mentioned he hopes to have a new line of open baffle
products to market by this November. Price points he hopes to hit
are $1,000 and $1,500. Might be worth holding out. His speakers work
in smaller rooms too.
How about just buying the wharfedale lintons at 1199...without stands. That is what comes to mind for a grand brand new. lots of speaker for the price. Also lots and lots of positive reviews wherever you look.

Not to get off topic, but: they're very, very good.
A speaker sommelier would be awesome.
That really is the goal. I know I lack the practical experience and am attempting to rectify the situation, “but you can’t get the sound from a story in a magazine.”

So I’m trying to put together a study guide. A speaker primer so to speak. If it helps me, chances are it will help others, if it’s general enough. I wish I had the resources to home audition a few dozen pairs and compare them all to each other, but I don’t. I probably need to research to the point where I can ask more specific questions. I do appreciate the suggestions though. 

“Don't waste your money on a new set of speakers
You get more mileage from a cheap pair of sneakers
Next phase, new wave, dance craze, anyways
It's still rock and roll to me”