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Best Rocking Speakers 15K and Under

 Been looking around for speakers in the 15K range and under. Most of my music is listened to on Vinyl but recently purchased a Aurender N10 for streaming which I am really happy with. I listen to a very wide range of music, some classical, jazz, classic rock, punk and metal. About 10 years ago I got rid of my 70’s era JBL and Pioneer speakers and they both really played everything well. Now it seems difficult finding the right all around speaker.  FYI, I like playing loud and want to hear the bass, but not wanting to go with subs. 

 So far I have listened with my set-up the new Magico A-3 and was impressed. Also on different gear at a dealer Monitor Audio Platinum 300 (I liked) but wasn’t a fan on the same set-up Totem Wind Design, Aerial 7T or ProAc D48R. In fairness to the Proacs I liked the sound but there was a lot of boominess at the dealer and in a fairly large listening area. Might have to go to a different dealer and listen again. Listened to the Legacy Signatures at Audio Doctor and was really impressed. 

 So my short list is Magico A-3, Legacy Focus SE, ProAc D-48R. Anything I’m missing that I should hunt down for a demo? I haven’t yet but by the encouragement of my salesman wants me to listen on my exact set-up the Focal Kanta and Sopra  as well. 

 Recently switched my front end and although my current speakers sound 100% better still not low enough and the highs become fatiguing afer awhile.
 Currently Gear:
McIntosh C2600 Preamp
McIntosh MC611 Monos
Aurender N10
Dr. Feikert Woodpecker TT with Jelco Tonearm/Koetsu Black Goldline, Denon 301II, Sumiko Blue Point
Speakers Kef Reference 3.

 Not willing to change any of my front end, just speakers. (And please no Tektons)
trknomo
sbrownnw
716 posts
 
Search around, there were some ProAc Studio 148 slim towers for sale for less than $2500.  Use with Soundocity SEV9 outriggers.  Love the sound of mine with my Audio Refinement (YBA) gear, modified RP6 and custom cables.
The 148s use the same silk dome tweeter as the reference line and are setup for a quicker PRAT than the reference line.  Solid down to 25Hz with the bottom firing ports and tune-able using foam inserts.
kalali's avatar
kalali
1,977 posts
 
If I had a budget of ~$15K and lived in N.J., which I do, I would make a trip to Audio Connection in Verona and pick up a pair of Vandersteen Quattro Wood CT and be done with my speaker chase. One of the best sounds I’ve heard, without a doubt.
wolf_garcia
6,767 posts
 
Get a couple of phased array type PA speakers and an 18" powered sub, then you can rock yer gonzagas off and entertain the neighbors for much less than 15K.
bache's avatar
bache
528 posts
 
@kalali.  If you live in NJ , you can save money and made shorter
trip to Audio Doctor in Jersey City, The Best place to buy speakers,
end everything else, Dave can find  speakers according you budget.
trknomo OP
80 posts
 
@kalali I did visit Audio Connection last fall and listened to the Quatro’s and the big Proacs. Unfortunately I was there listening to some preamps so didnt pay that much attention, but yes would be worth a trip back there. Johnny was pretty cool.  I do like the fact that he would set the up at your house. I forget the fee but it was minimal considering I’m about 2 hrs away. Although I was looking at preamps he was def touting the Quatros while I was there. 
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