Upgrade from Spendor SP 1/2, what's next?

I owned both the Spendor S8e and S5e before settling on the SP1/2E.

Over on Audio Asylum I posted a review that compares the SP1/2E side-by-side with the S8e. While both are very good speakers, the 1/2 was my choice. (You'll find it in the Review section under Speakers/Spendor.)

Since I posted the review a year ago, I've found nothing to change. I've thought here and there about adding a subwoofer but for the bulk of music I play even that is a pretty low priority.

What change or improvement are you looking for?

I've owned various models of the Spendor Classic Series, including the 1/2e which is a fabulous speaker. It was replaced in my system by the Audiokinesis Jazz Modules which are floor standers. I think these would more than meet your needs sonically, but without knowing your budget can't say if they are in your price range.

If you are willing to wait it out and want to stay in the Spendor family, I would keep my eye out for a pair of 9/1 floor standers.

Thanks for the responses so far. I would peg budget at no more that $5k and I'm a big believer in buying used (which is the best part of audiophile disease--let someone else take the first hit on the depreciation, hehe).

Like I said, I do love the Spendors so it's gonna take something spectacular to impress me. The Spendors were rather difficult to place in the room, however. I think the 9/1s might be too big.

I'm still not quite sure what you're looking to improve in terms of sound quality.

Also, what was difficult about placement? The SP1/2 has fairly tight dispersion characteristics and is less sensitive to side wall asymmetry than many other speakers when one is in the sweet spot. If a room is difficult for Spendors, it is likely going to be problematic for many other speakers, though the anomalies may be different in character.

I think the answers you receive will improve if people have a better of idea of the improvement you're seeking.

You love the speakers, & you're using a moderate power tube amp (I think--I'm not that familiar w/Cayin's), in a fairly large room.

Merlins. Merlins love tubes. The VSM's, or maybe the TSM's would work for you. I haven't heard SP 1/2's, so can't compare.....