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
128x128heyitsmedusty
Given your taste in music, I would strongly suggest the new B&W 685 or any Dynaudio monitor you can afford new or used. I don't think you will be satisfied with one of the small floor standers mentioned except perhaps the Quad 22L (~$1300 new) compared with your current pair of Thiels. Dynaudio drivers are really stiff, so if you audition a new pair, make sure they are well broken in and driven with adequate power. In general, if you want anything approaching floor stander scale from a monitor size speaker, you better feed them lots of current.
Really good suggestions so far.

Also to be taken into consideration: I have a Velodyne CT-120 sub that I'm integrating into my system as well. Right now it only covers the very bottom (~35 hz) but I could adjust the crossover to fill in a little more if I have a smaller monitor. It's not the most musical sub, but it can add SPL where I need it.

-Dusty
Good to know! Just a reminder; subs usually work best the less they have to go up they frequency range and IMHO 2 are better than 1, even if they're smaller. If your using subs you might want to consider some of the smaller Dunlavy floorstanders or "monitors".
A question for OP:

Why do you want monitors? With their stands, they don't take up any less floor space than floorstanders. It seems to me that you are really looking for slim good-looking floorstanders that can be placed close to the back wall.

Now, nobody can decide good-looking for another. So the first thing may be to visit a few audio stores with your GF to get a sense of what shape/size she would find acceptable. Otherwise you could a new pair and discover she is still not happy.
I guess I am not so tough. I wanted a pair of cain & cain (abby's) for a second system. My wife said no way are you putting those ugly things in this house; I caved. So I am probably going to try a pair of the Omega Super 3xrs.

Chuck