Sorry but I don't understand the comments about 2D vs. 3D. I am not a techie--just a music lover who is trying to decide which speakers to buy for my two channel system. I don't even know what 3D audio is and I'm not planning to change my system other than the speakers. I just want natural sounding speakers with a realistic sound stage, great imaging, decent bass,the ability to hear and pinpoint solo instruments in classical music and to hear the breadth and width and depth of an entire orchestra as if you are in the concert hall.
My current short list is the KEF Reference 3, Monitor Audio PL300ii, and Paradigm Persona 3 and 5. Haven't yet heard the 5 but will do so later this week. There are so many others and I appreciate the suggestions but I've ruled some out either because I didn't like them as well or because they're not available for audition in my area.
I've reached the point where I have 3 or 4 good choices, I don't want to drag this on forever and it's a matter of deciding which I like the best. I'll see how I like the Paradigm Persona 5 and whether it's really worth 70% more than the 3. I may take the Monitor Audio dealer up on his offer to deliver the floor model to my house and let me listen for a week but I don't think it's fair to do this if I am more interested in another speaker. Also, I may take another listen to the KEFS. It will depend on whether I like the Paradigms enough to make a decision or whether it's still a tough call and I need to revisit the others. I'm also wondering whether, with the CES a month away, I should wait to see if there are any new announcements. Thanks everyone for your help!