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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
alanr123's avatar
alanr123
6 posts
 
Surprised no votes for Focals. I have the $4K Aria 936's (seen them on sale recently) and they sound amazing. Huge soundstage, I can walk into other rooms and they still sound good. I like them far better than the B&W 800 series and any Revels (haven't heard the new beryllium). I also like them better than the step up in the Arias 948 - I think.  I do really like Harmon & Revel sound, just didn't get as open and musical as the Focals, which could have been the amp I demoed them with.  Amp's can make a huge difference. I personally would demo the Sopra No 2's or any of new Kanta's which looks nice. Focals have a great sound and pair nicely with tube and/or ss gear. I run them off a hybrid amp and they sound amazing.
dmbwire
44 posts
 
Don’t let the B&W haters dissuade you from the new Diamonds. My office rig is McIntosh based consisting of MC152, C47, Oppo UDP-205, 805d3’s. The system is extremely easy to listen to for long periods; even at higher volumes. The new tweeter is much smoother than the previous models. I have heard the complete 800 range, although not for extended sessions, but will admit the 804 can come off as a little “bright” due to the smaller drivers; not the tweeter. The McIntosh / B&W combination works extremely well together and is well worth a listen. Best of luck with your search. 
bmontani
193 posts
 
I would look for a used pair of Thiel 3.7s.  or even 2.7s.  A real bargain and will sound fantastic if you have the right equipment upstream.  The Vandersteen Treo is also very nice.
inna
7,296 posts
 
If you like elegant sound - Lansche. Used, of course. 
glupson
7,842 posts
 
"Don’t let the B&W haters dissuade you..."
No B&W haters have posted yet. A few non-impressed ones, but no haters so far.
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