Speaker help - short list needed

Agree on Vandersteens...they have always (as long as i can remember...back to mid 90s) positioned themselves as great value for money speakers that do a lot of things well that other speakers cannot touch...and many other things at a level that is at least on par/competitive.

As for KEFs, my own experience is a bit dated...the first few generations of uni-q felt like they could bite a bit. Perhaps the latest 2 generations are better...again, my own experience is 2 generations out of date, so one person's opinion regarding s/hand KEFs...

I agree with the Vandersteens. I very nice sound.

Vandersteens or Ohms...

I have the new C1 sig (a bit beyond your budget) and the esotar2 tweeter is the sweetest smoothest I ever heard. Even The esotec/esotar tweeter is very smooth that are in the models Excite 12/16/32's - Focus 160 - Contour S1.4 would be in your budget. There is a used pair of contour 1.8 mkII here too. Ideally you should demo them first.

Chad329, I heartily agree that Vandersteen speakers will NOT sound harsh or bright. Altho they're pushing your budget a little, I think you should look for a pair of 3As. There are always pairs for sale here.
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