Looking for new speakers

I "third" the Merlins.

I at least will agree with Rbstehno that the cp-6311's are very good. But weight isn't the only consideration when it comes to evaluating or enjoying speakers. As for halving prices, you are talking used versus new, apples and oranges. A new pair of CP-6311's are $2100. It is difficult to find the Epos used because they are a fairly new model and people aren't parting quickly with the ones they have.

I have not compared the Epos directly to the Ushers, but I have compared them to well respected models from Naim, Totem and Rega, and the Epos stood up very well in that company. I also have compred the Ushers to Rega speakers, so have some common currency.

I think it is a matter of taste. I would say the Ushers have a nice, smooth treble and mid-range, and strong bass (more so with the CP-6311). In contrast, the Epos has a very well integrated sound from lower mid bass to upper highs, with (to me) a sophisticated view into the details and timing of the original performance. So IMO, both pairs of Ushers sound nice, while the Epos draw me in.

Are you in AL? Then it's worth a trip to check these beauts out (not affiliated):

http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=72378.msg752046;topicseen#new

Allenjohns with that budget you might look at Audiokinesis.

i agree, it is a matter of taste. i also agree with you that weight doesn't make a speaker great. what i was trying to say the build quality of all the usher's i have heard and have read about is excellent, as is the sound.
enjoy your new speakers.