Performer-in-Room Quality with Speakers?


I need advice regarding what kind of speakers might help provide what I'm looking for. (For some time now I've been a tube guy for amplication, and that will not change; source components and media vary.)  I want an illusion of the performer (acoustic instrument music, vocals, classical, and combo jazz,) actually being in the room, realism so convincing that it is potentially startling. The only time I've had that sensation is when I use my Stax Ear Speakers. Concerns are sensitivity to room placement, cost, and of course spouse approval factor. Soundstage, imaging, dynamics, deeeeep bass, can take a back seat if necessary. 

Any ideas?  Single-point drivers?  Crossoverless units? Open baffle?  Vertical arrays?  Electrostatrics or planars? 
(For the record I've owned Maggies, Shahinian Obelisks, mid-fi traditional boxes and so on.)

Thanks for your ideas,

OGOgre
ogogre
Ogogre if you are really interested in rebuilt quads, contact Wayne Picquard at quadsunlimited.us

That's where my esl57's came from, and they are absolutely wonderful.  Vocals are superb, and they are trouble free.  He will ship as well.

OGO, a few years too late - I sold mine, bought 2905's. These have more high end, more low end, more clarity, but no more musicality, even after modification.

Another great thing about ESL57's - they stack brilliantly. Walker also oriented them at right angles - which is also a good choice. If you like Quads, do it, do it ...
I'll vote w/Mapman on his 3/30 post....omnis will give you 'presence' with ease and without 'sweet spotting' you.

I've got 4 Walsh's and can put the vocalist in your lap, if that appeals....;)
Hi Michael,
The Charney Audio Maestro will fit your needs perfectly. They are a single driver full range rear loaded horn based on the tractrix theory. I know you mentioned earlier in the thread that you aren't interested in this type of speaker, but the Maestro sounds nothing like other horns you may have listened to. With a decent SET amp the Maestros are very engaging with detail that isn't ear splitting but full and with bass that is deep and articulate.
There are minimal room treatments needed since the rear loaded design couples with the room and there are 0 room nodes!
 Build quality is off the charts since they are made from a C&C machine that Charney owns. Everything is made in house!
 It would be worth your while to make an appointment with Charney for a listen. They are located in Somerset NJ about an hour from NY an 1.5 hours from Philadelphia off exit 9 of the NJ Turnpike.

R