If I remember correctly, the top end of the Watt 8 could take your ears off. Too bright, fatigueing, and Hi FI sounding, Not for me. If you want somnething that will go loud, get the Klipsch Cornwall IV. That 15 inch woofer will really pound and the mids and highs are horns and very efficient. I actually like the sound of them very much. They are right at your 6 grand price point too. Very efficient too. The Audiophiliac really loves them (Steve Guttenberg).