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Looking for suggestions on best small footprint speaker under $4K

Greetings
i’m a long time 2 channel system guy that rekindled his  interest in music and Is looking to upgrade speakers.    I just currently upgraded from a small  tube amp to a 150 W Krell amp and have really enjoyed the improved response from my  7 year old KEF LS50’s.     My favorite Brands of speakers over the years have been Maggie’s and B&W.   I have also downsized  homes and size of speaker is an issue.     Looking for the best sounding speaker for jazz and lite rock.    Attractive cabinets are important to me so I don’t like the looks of golden ear speakers..   25 years ago I loved Vandersteen speakers but they were just not attractive.

As I begin my search what would yoou suggest.   I have started looking at Monitor Audio and Salk but have not heard any.  My budget is $4K.

i appreciate your feedback.


128x128miamiangler
lightnin's avatar
lightnin
22 posts
 
I concur with bhmg, Watkins Gen 4 are outstanding speakers.

https://www.watkinsstereo.com/
rackon
301 posts
 
Former Maggie fan here - went to GoldenEar and LOVE them. I think the 2+/3+ are actually very attractive, in a minimalist modern sort of way. 

But if you can't stand the looks of the GE Tritons I'd suggest you take a look at Nola speakers - either the Brio Trio or Boxers. Highly musical, unboxy and a bargain. I had Alons (now Nola) about 10 years ago and they were  terrific. For someone moving from planars to cones and domes, Nolas are a must audition.
audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
3,774 posts
 
You should consider the Quad Z4 they are $4,200.00 and they are exceptional. They were originally $5,000 a pair and they use one of the best ribbon tweeters in the industry, they throw a huge soundstage and are very transparent without being bright. They also have good bass are easy to drive and look stunning.
https://www.avforums.com/review/quad-z-4-floorstanding-speaker-review.13516

We sell a number of great speakers in this price point from Kef, Dali, Paradigm and the Quads are our favorite for this price range.

They have won  loudspeaker of the year in the UK for 2016 


Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ Quad dealers

chipdelacalzada
64 posts
 
I highly recommend Dynaudio Contour 20's. It's a bit understated in terms of its looks but the esotar 2 tweeter once broken in is nothing short of amazing (to my ears).
dorkwad
547 posts
 
MA,

For looks and sound, the Salk Song 3 or 3A would be excellent--the difference would depend on you sound priorities.  Heard the 3's and were very impressed.  You could get ones made to your own desires for looks and a little for sound--brand new at your price.  Don't disregard my other post, however.  The ATC speakers need to be heard.  You may love them, although the Salk's are much better wood finishes--as good as it gets in that way.  Jim is a very helpful and personable dude, too.

Bob
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