I cannot voice my opinion on those speakers because I have not heard them. Elac makes some great speakers, but everyone will give you their opinion and my guess is that you will be overwhelmed with the responses. No bookshelf speaker is going to fully give you the low-end frequencies in metal music (or any other). You should really consider adding 2 subwoofers to your budget to whichever speakers you choose. You don't play your music loud, so you could get by with relatively inexpensive subs. I would get sealed enclosures though, just my preference. Best of luck.
Young audiophile metal head looking to level up speaker choice
Hello Audiogon,
I'm a pretty new to the world of audio and looking to make a signifiant upgrade from my first self purchased speaker, the Q Acoustics 3030i. I was encouraged by an audiophile friend to join Audiogon and post a question regarding what speaker would be best.
I decided to pick up a much nicer amplifier last year, upgrading from a Cambridge AXR85 to a Rogue Sphinx V3. This 2024 I am wanting to make a similar upgrade to my speakers. I wanted a more dynamic amplifier and found the Cambridge to smooth when combined with my Q Acoustics.
I have my own listening room but it's rather small 11ft x13ft. I listen to mostly heavy metal/rock music at 70-85 decibels. I have looked at been cross shopping the Buchart S400 mkII, Dynaudio Evoke 20, Zu DWX, Arendale 1723 - but have also heard good things about vintage Usher speakers..
Thanks for your consideration and advice here.
cheers