Time for some new speakers


So am trying to decide if some models I have researched are worth inclusion and audition. Will have to drive several hundred miles to audition a couple of them so I am looking for thoughts and feedback if anyone has heard them or especially if someone has heard more than one; theirs thoughts on how they compared. Considering the following: KEF 205/2, B&W 802D, Lawrence Audio Cello, Salk Audio Sound Scape 8. List was compiled based on reviews and all of them, having a small foot print (except B&W), resonable bass and looks that I believe my wife could live with. Live in downtown condo with neighbors both sides but do have a good size living room (20 x 24 x17). Front end is Hegel and source is oppo 103, mac mini and sonus for causual listening
128x128glacierbear
I would suggest while you are doing demo on the Kef 205/2 if possible compare the Kef R900 I found them to be more to my liking than the 205/2 , more dynamic and seamless and better with all type of music in comparison. Just make sure all speakers are using proper electronics. 2 years later and I am still amazed by the quality of sound .
Thanks everyone, have narrowed it down to KEF or Lawrence Audio......Decisions, Decisions......
I'd buy the KEFs, I've always admired their sound and build quality. And they tend to hold their value very well for many years.....

-RW-
I don't know where you are located by your name suggests MN or MT. Anyway, see if you can find a Green Mountain Audio dealer nearby.
These are time-coherent speakers, music thru them sounds much more realistic than any other higher order x-over speaker. Green Mtn Audio speakers use 1st-order x-overs which ensures that the distortion thru them is minimal compared to higher order x-over speakers.
I don't have a problem with their looks but I'll mention that not everyone likes the looks of their floorstanders but I'll also say that their form follows function - the front baffles are narrow by design & only as much material on them as needed. Extra baffle material causes reflections off the front baffle that smears the sound & causes distortion.
The Rio stand mount speakers look pretty much like any other stand mount. The Eos stand-mount looks different from others again to optimize the sound from the tweeters.
general website:
http://www.greenmountainaudio.com
You can read a lot more about the design of their speakers on their website. Many other Audiogon members have benefitted from the technical details cited here:
http://greenmountainaudio.com/storage/speakers/rio/Rio-Design-Concept.pdf

Call the company phone number & talk to the owner/designer Roy Johnson. He's a really nice fellow & will spend time w/ you answering your questions both technical & non-technical.