what has a Thiel soundstage, but more sensitivity?

maybe some of the Meadowlark speakers?? they have been out of business for several years and their speakers are available at great prices used. they are time co-herent designs ala Thiel but easier to drive.

The Meadowlarks are good recommendation.

thank you all, these are great recommendations. @ Cmalak; my thoughts exactly, and the CS 1.6 were actually at the top of my list. but i hadn't heard of the meadowlarks or coincidents, and hadn't considered Dunlavy or triangle.

feel free to add more to this list, considering the parameters i've described, and i now have a few new ideas thanks to you all!

I like the CS 1.6 recommendation as well since you've obviously fallen for the Thiel sound already. They may be more sensitive than the 1.5s, but you might want to check the impedance curve since they may also appreciate some juice. I like the Concident recommendation as well, but the Meadowlarks I'd be a little hesitant unless there's a good supply of replacement drivers out there.

Some other brands I've heard that image very well and are probably easier loads are Joseph Audio and Silverline. Something from Verity Audio or Reference 3a might be worth a look too, although I don't have as much direct experience with those.

Lastly, you might consider contacting Pass to see which speakers they would recommend for your tastes -- they're supposed to have very good customer support. Best of luck.

I believe that Meadowlarks used off the shelf parts.
Though not the most sensitive Thiels, I think the CS 2's with their 6 Ohm nominal, 5 Ohm minimum impedance might be the easiest of all Thiels to drive. According to some folks at Thiel, the CS2's were the most reliable model they ever made too.