...bookshelf speakers that sound good at low volume...


Hello to all...

Looking for new bookshelf speakers that sound good at low volume

CD-only listening; powering with 35w/8ohm Monoprice integrated, with silver interconnects; speaker cable home made twisted 14g solid core copper, bare wire connected to JBL L25 "PRIMA" Big 2-ways...

In approx. 14’ x14’ room in apt: multi use area - dining/kitchen/tv-gaming

If dedicated listening: approx 8’away (speaker cabinets 6’ center to center; speakers are not mirror-image const.)

Speakers sound great at medium+ volume - they really sing - but are really muddy and not detailed at low volume.

Options: replace integrated with vintage or new 50-75w/ch (with or without DAC) OR new or vintage bookshelf speakers... budget $500-$1000 max.

Located in Metro NYC area...

At present - I am gonna keep the JBLs: could their low volume presentation change with a better or higher wattage integrated?

I know I am casting a wide net here, not looking for " try it - see how it sounds": looking for experiences and opinions based on trial and errors of others willing to share.

Thanks in advance to all... Best Wishes - Be Well...
insearchofprat
Another vote for the Ascend Acoustics Sierra 2, BUT their bottom end is anemic.  If you want a really full bottom end as well, try BMR Philharmonitors or ProAc Response 2.  Patience is required to find either in your budget, though, but it’s possible.
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digsmithd
Originally started forum with 2nd system in mind - sure that comments also pertain to my main system: 
I am now playing the KEF Q1s with a Parasound HCA-750A direct, using the gain pots on the rear of the unit... Speaker cable homemade twisted 14g SOLID COPPER CORE; interconnect older Harmonic Technologies Pro Silway Mark lll; power cord PS Audio SC Statement
Luv my Q1s - do you have any suggestions regarding an integrated or power amp to achieve your suggestion of a more powerful/cleaner amp (new or vintage/used) - in the $500-1000 range
I can’t say I agree with the “amp doesn’t matter” speculation..as I feel it does.

so I would suggest ditching the monoprice and getting a more recent used Exposure or Creek integrated.
along with perhaps a nice pair of Epos bookshelf’s.
you will still be in your budget and enjoy.
Normally I suggest high sensitivity speakers with big paper cone woofers for these situations, but in your case the problem could very well be the Monoprice amp. 35 watts/ch would normally be enough power for JBLs in a room that size, but that’s if the power is RMS, full bandwidth. I wouldn’t be surprised if the integrated’s RMS power is closer to 10 watts/ch in reality.

A low-efficiency bookshelf speaker like the KEF LS50 is likely to leave you worse off. 

I’d probably put that $1K toward a better amp like a pre-owned Rega Elex-R or the Yamaha A-S801. The latter has a variable loudness control that will improve your low-volume listening regardless of partnering speaker, and you’ll have a great amp for when you do finally upgrade the JBLs.