Which Budget Friendly Floorstanders Next?

The MA Silver 6 by all accounts is an excellent speaker. I auditioned at length the MA Silver 8 and nearly went with them but ended up going with the Bowers and Wilkins 683 S2. For me the bass quantity and quality was better (bigger with better tonality), the treble seems a bit more refined as well. The mids of the MA Sliver series and the 683 S2 are similar with the MA being a touch more refined in the Sliver 8.

I could have easily lived with the Silver 8, it is excellent. But if your looking for a change the 683 S2 might be a good choice.

I noticed you were considering the B&W CM8. If you can live with the Black Ash vinyl veneer you might want to check the 683 S2 out.

Cheers,

Scott

I don't think you are going to like the Focals in all likelihood.  I own older 936s and they are analytical, require really good electronics and cables to get them singing right.  The rich and fullest sound on your list is probably the Vandersteens, but get a model up if you can. good luck

I've always liked the B&W 683.  But once you hear those drivers in a proper enclosure (The CM series) you can never go back.  

I agree with you on the Vandersteens.  I have a pair of 2Ci that are incredibly warm and have stunning low end (always lacked top end though).  I have used them to mix on for years.  And my very first pair of decent speakers were the 1Cs.  I bought them when I was 17 and unfortunately never had proper power for them, which always makes me want to go back to them.

I'd address the preamp first.  The preamp is a very important part of what you ultimately hear, so I'd recommend a good stereo pre first before changing what are already very good speakers.  Best of luck and FWIW. 

Has anyone heard the Revel F35 or Fluance Signature?  Both very cheap, well made speakers.  Can't help but wonder...