After reading your follow-up, the first thing I want to ask is if you've ever considered a tube pre &/or amp? That can make a notable difference, adding a bit of both presence & smoothness to vocals.
One of the things that makes entry Vandersteens such great value is they have a very form follows function appearance--but not everyone will appreciate that. Also they're balanced & subtle in a way you'll likely enjoy--but that might not wow your wife.
I briefly mentioned ProAcs above, but will say it again, now as an actual recommendation. (Unless, of course, she dislikes traditional looking speakers.) They're a bit more immediately exciting & don't skimp on bass (including their standmounts), but still manage to sound refined--even on non-audiophile recordings.
Good luck & keep listening.
One of the things that makes entry Vandersteens such great value is they have a very form follows function appearance--but not everyone will appreciate that. Also they're balanced & subtle in a way you'll likely enjoy--but that might not wow your wife.
I briefly mentioned ProAcs above, but will say it again, now as an actual recommendation. (Unless, of course, she dislikes traditional looking speakers.) They're a bit more immediately exciting & don't skimp on bass (including their standmounts), but still manage to sound refined--even on non-audiophile recordings.
Good luck & keep listening.