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Speakers help for a newb...

Let me start off by saying I'm a total newb to the audio scene so if I sound like I don't know what I'm talking about it's because...I don't. A buddy of mine recommended I visit this site to get some expert opinions.

I have a $1000 budget and would like to purchase a pair of speakers (new or used). At the moment, all I have is a receiver (Rotel RSX 1056). My next purchase will be speakers if I can manager to not get so overwhelmed by all the choices out there.

Here are my criteria:

1. Must be at or under $1000

2. If used, must be in very good functional and cosmetic condition

3. Can be floorstanding or bookshelf.

4. The fact that my musical taste is all over the chart (from Bach to Morbid Angel) needs to be taken into consideration.

5. These speakers will be in our main living space (room size = 15 x 15). My wife would probably prefer something that doesn't visually overwhelm the space but that's not a huge concern for me.

Please let me know if I'm missing any important information for you guys to come up with some good recommendations.

Thanks!!
kxshook
loomisjohnson
1,909 posts
 
the vs vr1s and paradigm recommendations above are certainly good ones, but you'll need stands. i'd also look at monitor audio rs6/rs8 or vs vr2 floorstanders, which are fuller range and won't take up any more real estate.
millicurie999
57 posts
 
How about Totem Arro? Used under $1000 from time to time here at Audiogon. Definitely wife friendly.
soulbrass
246 posts
 
I thought of offering the Arro as a recommendation, too...great speaker!...but ultimately thought it lacked the slam effect the OP would be looking for when in a Morbid Angel mood : )
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,138 posts
 
Vandy 2CE ssigs will be at the top end of your range, now that the Mark 2 has come out.
Triangle Celius.
Paradigms are good.
If you are thinking about HT, 5 NHT superzeros and a good sub will come in under your number.
lrsky
1,118 posts
 
I'd vote for the Vandersteens, or one other. Richard has a terrific product. Also, if you are near a dealer or don't mind doing business by UPS, they have an in home audition. I would at least recommend auditioning the little Maggies.
Years ago, the wonderful founder of Magnepan, Jim Winey told me in Chicago, at the CES, (that's how long ago this was), "If you let anyone out of your store without at least playing the SMGA's for him/her, you're foolish."

He was so right, I can't tell you how many SMGA's therefore small systems I put together for 'starter audiophiles'. One beautiful young blonde came in one day, and as I tried not to notice her beauty, and stay focused on the sale, I almost by accident sold her Harmon Kardon and Magnepan. This was the old HK, with great current output.
This beautiful girl was an attorney, who later became a local judge, and the last I heard, still owns the speakers. The sale happened a quarter of a century ago about 1984.

Vandersteen or Maggies for my recommendation.
Good Listening,
Larry
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