Top Notch Desktop System

I use Harbeth P3ESR in my desktop system. (I have them on the inexpensive DS2 rubber stands from Audioengine.) After having the Harbeths for a while, I added a B&W 10" subwoofer (ASW610) I found used on Audiogon. This makes a great desktop system!

I did try the KEF LS50s for this application and found they did not integrate well in such nearfield listening. In the nearfield (and even in the midfield), I find the LS50 too brash for my taste. It’s possible KEF refined the response in the wireless version.

P.S. You mentioned "all-in-one." Before the Harbeths, I used Audioengine A5+ powered speakers. They are incredibly good for the price! So maybe consider them, and also the new Vanatoo Transparent One Encore, which sounded terrific to me at AXPONA. I believe either one is available with a trial period.

Regarding the KEF LS-50, clearly a matter of taste. It won many awards. Objectively, the Soundstage measurements show a broad rise in response in the 2kHz-7kHz range. Whether this will be pleasing or the reverse will depend on the room, sound preferences, music played, and so on.

Regarding room correction, the miniDSP SHD series offers an incredible feature set at its price (~US$1200). It includes xover software and extra outputs to make integrating one or two subs easier, Dirac correction for adjusting balance system-wide, and network streaming.

We have one and love it in our living room system. It's not paired with the type of equipment that would allow me to comment on ultimate audiophile performance, unfortunately, but if I didn't already have a great desktop setup, it would be at the top of my list. Available either with DACs and analog input or as a digital-in and digital-out device.