If my budget was $1200, I'd get the Monitor Audio Silver RX6's, no question.And
I'd either power them with the Naim or sell both amps and get a Marantz
PM8004.
I'd either power them with the Naim or sell both amps and get a Marantz
PM8004.
Totem Rainmaker or Dynaudio Excite 12 or Kef Q900
Stereophile has a full review with test results of the Q900 here. At this price range, however, for a column to compete with a stand-mounted speaker, I recommend you also consider the Monitor Audio Silver RX6 ($1250/pair) and RX8 ($1750/pair). They are about as free of panel resonances as mini-monitors and have proprietary ceramic/magnesium drivers that are quick and open. Also quite linear with taut, musical bass. |
Late response but maybe it will help someone else. I auditioned seven different stand mount speakers last year, and the Rainmaker and Excite were the best sounding in my system. You can't go wrong with either one. I bought the Rainmaker because the Excite was a little too detailed and forward sounding on some songs, while the Rainmaker was more forgiving with my system (Sonos>Rega Dac>Naim Nait XS). I also much preferred the slim profile and rounded corners of the Rainmaker to the chunky look of the Excite speaker. |