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Curious what people think is the best "value" high end speaker (~5K to 15K)

I am on a long search for speakers and just curious what people think is the best value both new or used in speakers ranging from around $5000 to $15000? I have a set of Paradigm S8's (V1) and love them but looking for another set for another set in a different listening area (25 x 20?, maybe larger).  I love the full sound of JBL's and looking for something in that range (it also helps that JBL's seem to hold their value better than most, which will be a consideration). The only drawback to JBL is footprint.  I prefer a smaller footprint which is why after reading I hope to listen to several B&W 800 series but open to suggestions across the board.  used Watt Puppies? Revels?  I am curious about peoples experience with McIntosh XR100's. 
gene3x
mzkmxcv
777 posts
 
@gene3x 
 
Look at Stereophile’s measurements for Tekton. They are pretty neutral and have good imaging, they have a huge downside though due to the design, they have garbage vertical performance. I’m sure you’ve heard electrostatics like MartinLogan having a “pin needle sweet spot”, in that you have to be perfectly cemeteries for them to sound good, Tekton is the same way except in the vertical plane, so any amount of vertical head movement  (sitting upright vs slouched) is gonna change the sound by a good margin.
gene3x OP
43 posts
 
Okay, so now we are getting into something that is definitely important to me .....  sweet spot , sound stage , over all stereo sound envelope is important to me and willing to pay more for it.  I have always wondered why so many audiophiles were satisfied with tiny speakers on a pedestal that could only give you a full representation within a small window.  I want to fill as much of the room as possible.  I assumed that this was one of the reason's that people liked speakers like JBL , Tekton's , ect....  
I know the Maggies have a small sweet spot which is why I ruled them out from the beginning.  

mkzmxcv , I wonder if that would also be true for the larger Ulfberht's or Encore's? 
markalarsen's avatar
markalarsen
652 posts
 
Ok. Joseph Audio Perspectives.

Also, think about going to an audio show. It will give you a good idea, but there are some bad set ups. An audio show also will dissuade you from purchasing some what may be your favorite pick based on suggestions colored by owner basis.
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,500 posts
 
Stereophile has not measured or reviewed the DIs or the Encore. They both sound fantastic and must be heard. We listen with our ears not viewing graphs and numbers with our eyes. They really need to be heard in your space. I think they still offer a trial period should you decide to return. 
winefix
25 posts
 
Spatial Audio Triode Masters, best speakers I have ever owned, and I have or owned most of the usual suspects. 
And definitely Not Goldenear References, I bought into the hype and got a pair, sound great, but not worth the $8500.
Spatial Triodes or Gallo Strada 2 with a pair of SVS SB16 is about as good as it gets at any price.

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