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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
trknomo OP
80 posts
 
@steve59 Yes Mac gear is pretty smooth, but much more detailed than the MacIntosh of yesteryear which for some is better or worse. Not sure if the Revels, or Dyn’s would be boring, would just have to listen to them. The Sonus Fabers are a good match with Mac gear and they are a bit on the warm side as well. 
 I’m actually right in the vicinity of NJ, PA and NY. So a good location to listen to just about everything. There are a couple of Revel dealers within reasonable stricking distance from me, so may get a chance soon to have a listen.
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
trknomo, have you checked out Johnny at Audio Connections?  That may have been where you heard the ProAcs, but I didn't see where you auditioned the Vandersteen's or B&W's.  You are blessed in that you can go audition a lot of speakers to make a truly informed decision.  
volsfan846
21 posts
 
For $16k you can get a custom made pair of Salk Soundscape 12's. You won't find a better looking (will probably look better than the other furniture in your home) or better sounding speaker (assuming you want accuracy) for under $20k. They will play from 18hz to 40k hz +/- 3db. 

And your amps will drive them perfectly. Jim is a great guy and and builds fantastic speakers with some of the best drivers in the world. Check out the web page and ask anybody who has ever dealt with him. 
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
Volsfan, I know those speakers and they are very good, but speakers are the most subjective component you can get.  Looks as well as sound.  There is no speaker at any price that is the best looking or best sounding, lol.  Yes, I've heard nothing but great things about Jim and each time I've heard his speakers, I"ve enjoyed them, but like all the others in this thread, the OP needs to hear  them and decide.

I LOVE the VAndersateen line and have auditioned most of the contenders out there.  I'm very used to listening to ultra high end systems as I'm blessed to have some good friends in the audio world, but Vandersteen's are the best or best for the money. They are just the best for ME as well as other owners. The same goes for the other brands out there.  

It's awesome that you love yours that much though as that's what audio is all about and what makes the forums fun.  :). 
helomech
1,722 posts
 
https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-t652-dual-6-1-2-2-way-tower-speaker-pair--300-653?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=pla

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