Eggleston, Merlin, Jean Marie Reynaud????

I have Reynauds - the Evolution 3's.
I am in New Zealand.
I listened to everything in this country under NZ$15,000
They were easily the most musical and balanced.
Very immediate and emotional, great sound off-axis (the unbaffled tweeter), well-integrated drivers.
Seductive, warm, sweet - not the ultimate in transparency.
Jean-Marie Reynaud himself recommended I get the Plinius 9200. I already have a Bryston B100SST.
I am very happy with them.
If I were to ask for something more:
The bass is not super-tight but warm.
I listen only to acoustic music, so that's fine.
The treble is rolled off a little.
Sometimes I wish they had a bit more extension up top.
The new Orfeo is designed to address these wishes.
I have not heard them.
Bob Neill nailed them in his reviews on Positive-Feedback.
http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue6/offrandes.htm

Write to him - he has been very helpful and straight-up, even though I am in New Zealand.
http://www.amherstaudio.com/

I have owned the Merlins TSM-MX's and now own the Harbeths SHL5's. The Harbeth's should be on your short list to listen to. I like the Harbeth's better.

I second Eril..,

The Reynauds are loudspeakers for life.
I listen to music most of the day ( at home ) and never experience any fatique.
They sound good in any part of the room so your not stuck to a 'hotspot' position.
I can't comment on the other brands since I haven't listened to them but you should have a listen to Reynauds.., whatever model.
BTW.., I'm running my Offrandes with Plinius.., a fine combination.

Good luck and lots of wisdom..!