Replacing Thiel 2.2's, Need Monitor Suggestions


I am completely satisfied with my Thiel 2.2's. They are transparent, detailed (sometimes unforgivingly so), incredible imaging, and solid as rocks. Unfortunately, my girlfriend thinks they are clunky looking and since we're getting new furniture she is wondering if there is anything smaller I could replace them with.

I should be able to get $900 out of them to put toward some smaller speakers. I'm considering monitors, or anything smaller and nicer looking (possibly a slim floor stander with a nice veneer.) I would prefer not spending more than $1000 on the speakers, and I don't mind buying used.

I am looking for the things that my Thiel's did well (detail, transparency, incredible imaging, large body of sound) as opposed to overly warm-sounding speakers.

You can use the links below my username to view my system. I'm still getting started, and my next upgrade will be getting a separate amp. Any suggestions for an amp to complement your suggested speakers would also be appreciated. My budget for the amp is no more than $400 used.

Thanks for any suggestions, and please don't answer with "lose the girlfriend." It's not helpful. All other advice is very appreciated.

-Dusty
heyitsmedusty
If the Thiels are what you like I'd suggest a used pair of 1.6s. The newer Thiels have a sleeker look than the 2.2s. There are a couple of pairs listed now. Hate to be so obvious but as Meadowlarks were suggested, I have a pair of Kestrel 2s for sale if your located in the Midwest. I've owned 3 different Meadowlark models and tweeter on the Kestrel 2s to be the quickest. I also owned a pair of Thiel 1.5s a few years ago but they were extremely bright IMO although the Acurus amp I was using at the time probably contributed. Good luck.
I'm sorry, I went from Thiel 1.5's to 1.6's. I think the 1.5's may be found at or below $1K, but, I don't think you'll find the 1.6's that cheap for a long while.
Now hang on just a dern minute!! I just looked at your pix. You have the classic audiophile room. THe Thiels look great. Smaller monitors will only make your room look like an audiophiles room with monitors. My wife hates my 3.6's size, but loves her coldplay, candles, & wine. Save your money, go out and buy some coldlay, candles, & wine!!!!
There are a pair of Celesion SL600s for sale on Audiogon. I have the SL700s in my bedroom and enjoy them very much. They are as "neutral" a look as could be asked for.
I'm looking into the Meadowlark Kestrel 2's. It looks like they won't "rock" as well as the Thiels. Is that just part of the sacrifice of moving down in speakers?

I listen to Independent Rock (The Shins, Sufjan Stevens, Caribou, Decemberists), Jazz (Sonny Rollins, Cannonball Adderly, Dave Brubeck), Funk (Tower of Power, Cold Blood, Ohio Players), Bluegrass (Doc Watson, Greencards, Alison Krauss), Singer/Songwriter (Joni Mitchell, Nick Drake, Elliot Smith), so my tastes vary quite a bit.