Which monitor speakers are the most detailed...

Shanej:

I recommend Silverline SR-17s. It is an "older" model that doesn't get boatloads of press, but you don't find them available used very often because those that own them simply don't need to look elsewhere. They are simply superb. Excellent tonal balance, speed, and accuracy, work very well with all kinds of music. I really love mine. Do a search on the Audiogon homepage for SR-17 and you'll find at least 3 or 4 dealers (but none used!)

chas

chas

Meadowlark Shearwater Hot Rods. In your budget, sound terrific, they are basically 2-way monitors with integral stands. Small footprint, easy to drive even with lower powered tube amps. I actually picked the Shearwater HRs over several MUCH more expensive speakers, including Merlin VSM-SEs, they will NOT be embarassed even with very expensive partnering gear.

As a rule, I prefer 2-way, dynamic driver speakers which is why I mentioned and owned those above, as well as several others you note. Silverlines have crummy build quality but sound OK; Dynaudios are too constipated for my taste (and demand high-current solid state amps, no question about that), Totems are too "hi-fi" sounding, Joseph Audio I thought those were boring. I do like pretty much any ProAc Response series speaker. And while in general I dislike Sonus Faber, their Electa Amator II is pretty nice, I could live with that one.

All my opinions only of course...

Tyler Acoustics Reference monitor has very good midrange and treble detail. They are also not hard to find on this website. Well worth the risk.

if you can find em' used, the ae-1 signatures are simply amazing. you might also look for some hot-rodded westlake audio monitors. boulder amps has used several pairs in their demo rooms. -cfb

I would like to thank everyone for their recommendations. I will keep you posted.