Best speakers for 3 cord rock and roll

Interesting. I have noticed this too at times with certain speakers. In the past I have paid big money for speakers that sound like crap with rock. However, I think there is plenty of good "audiophile" speakers that can do rock/pop very well too.

Believe me now and hear me later, check out a pair of Hornshoppe Horns. I spent several hours with a pair the other day, driven by a BYOB (10 wpc) amp (with car battery). For me, the jury is still out on jazz and classical, but rock ... MAN THESE THINGS ROCK!! These are serious rockers! We easily blew past 100dB with Metallica and they still sounded clear. Don't be fooled by their diminutive size (4" single-driver). They kick serious ass. Ed allows 30-day trials. Only $850!!

For great rock 'n' roll performance for value, look for a decently cared for pair of vintage Klipsch Cornwalls: efficient, 15" woofer, happy at high decibels. One small caveat: they sound best at 20' or farther.

I agree with Gmood1. I've heard the Emerald Physics. You really should go to hear these. For 3K, you are there in a 3D soundstage. Open baffle bass is incredible.
All the other choices above are good choices for what you are looking for, but the EM C2s are in a whole different class.