What’s hot in monitors from $2K to $3K in 2012?


Hi folks… yeah, it’s been a while and this looks like my next quest. Any help would be greatly appreciated as I’ve been out of the loop for a bit.

I suppose I’m looking now, for some monitors to use as mains for audio mostly but for some movie time too. About 60/40 split, music – films.

They should reach down to 35hz flat. Disappear. Be neutral and as transparent as is possible for speakers at this level. 8 ohm preffered. 90db sensitivity should work, give or take a db. Imaging too is a biggie for me… but always, always, it’s about naturalness. Lifelike. Organic sounding.

Room is about 14 x 20 with speakers on the short wall. Power is by 150 – 170 wpc amps, depending on the mood. Currently it’s either a 150 x 5 Butler multi, or a 170 wpc Odyssey Stratos plus SS. Hopefully I’ll add a good digital pair of mono blocks later on like BC 500s.

Floor standers or stand mounted will work, but prefer something on stands I suppose. I think I’d like that look better.

Thanks for any thoughts on speaker choices within this criteria… or near it.
blindjim
Evolution Acoustic MMMicro One would be one of the "best in class" for you to consider.
Hi Blindjim - Elescher beat me to it. The Evolution Acoustics micros. I've heard them twice. Both times, they were remarkably good... extremely resolving without being fatiguing, excellent harmonic accuracy, surprisingly good dynamics, and razor sharp imaging.

They're $2500.

They are supposed to start shipping in about a month, but they've had lots of production delays, so who knows.

Bryon
I think your asking for alot of things at that price point for new speakers or even used.
I really enjoy a subwoofer for movies. If you can add one it would open up alot of opportunities.
You have a very powerful amp, why do you need speakers that are 90db sensitive? If you had a 20 or 30 watt amp then I could understand the need for 90 db speakers.(150 watts should power nearly any speakers to concert levels)
I run Vapor Audio Breeze speakers which are 86.5db with an 85 watt amp. The Breeze are fantastic monitors and will provide you with all of your listening preferences, but they only go down to 50hz.
Add a subwoofer and you are golden. My room is bigger than yours and I feel no need for a subwoofer for music. The bass I am getting has great tune, and is lightening fast.
If you won't add a subwoofer and you are looking for much deeper base, I would take good look at the Volent VL2. There is a pair listed on here for 3 grand asking price.
These are 88db and have received fantastic reviews. Check out the 6moons review.
Todd