Best speakers 2,500 can buy.

Used Aerial 10ts are about $3k, and are still one of the smoothest, non-fatiguing speakers you can find, despite being a 10+-year-old design. They are not the last word in soundstaging, however, with an up-front presentation. But the tonality is good with a nice balance of non-edginess and detail. I think they are a real bargain at common used prices.

I'm sorry Dritchey, Did I miss something or did no one ask? What amps are you planning on driving these with? The synergy between the speakers and power amps is critical in your choosing IMHO. Cheers!

Zu Druids, if you can spend just $300 more. Nothing in the price range - and I mean nothing - offers coherence, resolution, musicality, immediacy and expression while delivering high tonal accuracy. It is friendly to a huge range of amps and your space can be easily driven by very low power options. The Druid is a revelation in this price range and humbles speakers costing many times more.

Phil

I second Phil's statement on the Druids

Todd

I personally would like to compare the Green Mountain Audio Callisto to the Zu Druids. Has anyone done this? Both are first order crossovers. The Callisto I own has a cast marble cabinet that is dead quiet and the best I have heard. The Druids are more SET friendly, but I am curious about the cast aluminum tweeter as most are bright in my experience. The Callisto also has a lifetime warranty. Any information would be appreciated from those who have heard both.