2. pc-audio
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Speakers small enough for desktop use

Want to begin at the beginning in assembling a stereo system to use around a computer source in a desktop environment in a smaller room. Looking for ideas on what people have found from experience to work well in this situation with the following criteria:

Up to $1K budget (for the speakers that is)
Coherent in the nearfield
Magnetically shielded
Reasonably easy to drive
Decent sonics at lower volumes but able to go somewhat loud
Not overly critical regarding listening angle
OK near wall behind
Don't require a "subwoofer" to sound pleasing (obviously deep bass will be absent and that's fine as long as the speakers are balanced correctly for use alone)
Portable for use in different situations (no in- or on-wall solutions)

I'm not against considering self-powered speakers (at a higher budget if needed), but for now am assuming I'll get some sort of small amp (however probably not flea-powered tubes, more likely a SS switching amp). Pro monitors marketed for recording studio desktop use OK as long as they're intended to be fuller-range and flatter than not. I'm also not decided whether these will be placed directly on the desktop or above it on some sort of stand or wall mounting. Thanks and remember to keep 'em small!
zaikesman

Showing 2 responses by ckorody

ckorody
643 posts
 
If you want to provide the power, the NSM Audio/Role series of speakers are tremendous - smooth, very detailed, impeccable imaging. Not inexpensive but... and they stand behind the product.

Another choice I am really enjoying is the Cain & Cain Noogi - basically a mini Abby - all the really good things about a full range from a small speaker. Like the Abby it is tall so placement is a tad more difficult - if you put it on your desk the driver will be above your head - I have mine on the floor and they sound great up here.

In the self-powered pro line, take a look at whatever the current Tannoy offering is. I would plan on a passive to make controlling them easy.

enjoy
ckorody
643 posts
 
I thought that the NSM was a sealed suspended unit - maybe the new Sampan is different - no doubt the absence of rear ports makes placement easier. I have to say I like my NSM10s - I got a demo pair for half price which took some of the sting out. I have them jammed into the corners of my sailboat cabin.

Highly regarded, though I have not heard them are the EPOS 3 and 5. Very reasonable. Also consider going up a bit in the NHT line - thinking the Classic 2 or 3. And while it sounds like heresy, I got an amazing deal on a refurb set up from Klipsch - two satellites and a nice sub for $70 that does everything a desk unit can do but disappear.

I suppose the other thing to look for is something with a Fostex other then the Noogis.
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