Speakers to hang on to for LIFE

As the second subscriber states on this list, the Von Schweikert VR7's, which can now be had in the HSE (Hovland Special Edition), upgrade model.
Below this, I would say their VR5 HSE, or their new DB100 true 100dB speaker system especially designed for people into tubes. Reviews will be out soon on the DB100 matched with 300b tube gear I hear.

I have had Apogee Duettas since 1985 and could not think of another speaker. Apogee may be out of business, but a fellow named Graz is making replacement ribbons for all of the Apogee lines. His designs are better than the original.
Long live Apogee (and Graz). Todd A. Eilts

Ryllau, I find myself in almost the same situation as you. I've owned Theil CS3.6's since 1996 and have been exceedingly happy with them. I've also made the decision to upgrade, and am questioning my sanity because of it. I do realize that there are better speakers out there and that technology has progressed significantly since the 3.6's came out. My issue is that I'm finding that to better the 3.6's, I'm most likely going to go with the Revel Salon's. They're the only speaker out there (under $20k) that I can find that convince me in all areas that they're a clear step-up from my 3.6's. Except for the Revel's, I haven't found any other speaker that I would give up the 3.6's for (at least if I have to lay down $10k+ to upgrade).

So, what speakers to keep for life? I'll be keeping my 3.6's to put in a secondary system, thank you. They're bigger than I would prefer for a secondary system, but when I consider how hard they are to better, and that they are absolutely flawless in every way but would only bring ~$2k if sold - then there's no way I'll get rid of them...until they give up the ghost. And that'll likely be a long time from now.

If you're willing to entertain the Salons, have you considered the Vandersteen Model 5's?

If what they say about these is true, you'd have yourself a phenominal speaker system and save about $6k in the process.

They are a bit on the high maintenance side of life in the way of proper setup.

In 25 years I've switched speakers once, I own Avalon Acoustics now. Unlike many, they are worth considering.