Best for Classic/Progressive Rock and Blues

@audition__audio 

The JBL line is different. The woofers are descendants of the original D130 woofer used in the early JBL HiFi speakers in the 1950s. This speaker, and its many variations, also became the dominant speakers in electric guitar amps in the 60s that created the rock guitar sound. This led JBL to use similar drivers in their early studio monitors like the 4310 and 4311 that were designed for the higher SPL demanded by rock artists and producers. So those monitors and the consumer versions that followed all use woofers that reproduce electric guitars particularly well.  

That being said, JBL speakers are also great for classical, jazz, and any other form of music, as in your original premise. Audiophiles tend to avoid them because of their association with rock, to their detriment. I've seen all the "Junk But Loud" jokes but I smile because it keeps the price down on resales. 

this might help

I dont think the JBL line is any different! One speaker driver creates sound and the other reproduces. I just bought a pair of L100s and a pair of 65 Jubals with the intent to sell. JBLs do not appeal to my sonic palate. They did play loud I will give them this. 

Johnnotkathi,

For me, the $1,000 a pair is just not going to give you what you are looking for.....without having to add more money (surrounds, caps, drivers, blemishes). $1,400 to $1,500 might very well get that for you, and the JBL L100s, Yamaha NS1000s might be found in good enough condition.

Here are a couple of new recommendations KLH Model 5, Zu Audio DWX (large standmount) or DW6 floorstander (new these are under $2,000)....and use the same drivers. Even used these would be relatively new, and you shouldn't have to put any money into them. Great for rock and roll, not so much for Bach

Your Thiels need way more juice than your NAD can dish out. In fact, you can damage either, since the Thiels do dip to 1.6 ohms.

Get a pair of old Advents and be done.