Ah, didn’t know your price range so going up the line in all the brands I mentioned where applicable would obviously be even better. Given your potentially higher price range I’d add Rockport to the list, and I neglected to mention Wilson that should be in there too.
Advice on making a speaker change
I am looking for thoughts and members experience when it comes to making a speaker change in their systems. I am not looking for any specific speaker recommendations.
I am using KEF Reference 107-1 speakers that I purchased new in 1987. They are the only speakers I've used for 38 years! The speakers were refurbished professionally 4 years ago with new surrounds, tweeter maintenance, and upgrades to crossover components and wiring. Everything else is original, including the KUBE outboard bass equalization, that was part of the speaker design.
Over the past few years, I have upgraded my amplification and digital front end to my "end game" electronics of CODA16 amp and CODA 07X pre-amp, Playback Designs DAC, and Innuos Statement NG Streamer. My speakers are the last components from my original system. I love many attributes of these KEF 107 speakers, but also recognize their weakness. They are 38 year old technology after all.
My dilemma is twofold. I still think my speakers sound great in many ways. They are musically involving and still dazzle me on occasion. They have some weak points as do ALL speaker designs. Secondly, auditioning new speakers is difficult at best, as it is so dependent on associated equipment and listening rooms. I know my ears are the ultimate decision maker, but getting a realistic comparison to my current speakers from shows or sessions at audio shops is not easy.
Am I crazy to consider replacing these speakers? Have other members had the same dilemma and what was your outcome? Regrets or audio bliss? Talk me off the ledge or should I jump? Thanks!