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Monitors to replace EPOS M-16i

Can I get suggestions on monitors or small floor-standing loudspeakers to replace a set of EPOS M-16i? I love their level of detail and resolution, but it seems like they're just a BIT too hot on the high end. If I could back off a little without sacrificing too much of their revealing nature, I'd be happy as a clam.

I tried a set of NHT Classic Threes, and they went too far in the other direction. This is primarily a 2-channel hifi system, but I periodically use it to check recording mixes, so tonal and dynamic accuracy is a must.

Associated equipment includes a Quad 909 amp, Acurus RL11 preamp, Cambridge 640c V2 source, and Hsu VTF-2 mk3 subwoofer. I'd also consider replacing the CD player. Budget is ~ $1K USD. Thanks!
ja2austintx
ja2austintx OP
64 posts
 
While I have enjoyed CJ tube preamps in the past, I am trying to keep this system balanced towards just maybe a BIT more euphonic than "neutral". Tubes take it too far, in my estimation (but oh how they sound!). (I do a little recording and mixing now and then, so it's nice to have a "mix check" system I can rely on. I mix through NHT Pro nearfields, and while they're great at what they do, they're not 100% reliable. I doubt any nearfields are.)
ja2austintx OP
64 posts
 
Knownothing (ironic name!), I do play the Epos with the grills on, and I have messed around with room placement quite extensively. Toed-in seems to give the most balanced presentation, but it's still not quite "flat".

I think I may jump on a pair of Quad 22L2 and hope I can sell the subwoofer. (Knowing me, I'll probably keep it in case I pull the trigger on a pair of Maggie MMG that I've always wanted to try. I'm hopeless.)
afranta
180 posts
 
My experience is limited (I haven't heard the Epos M16i, for starters), but I had Quad 11Ls and now Dynaudio X12s in a room exactly the same size as yours, set up in the same less-than-deal way. I loved the Quads with a Music Hall cdp and amp, but when I switched to Naim electronics, I found them warm and a bit fuzzy. A good deal on the Dynaudios prompted me to try them, and I think they're fantastic. I can't speak to other models, but the X12s are revealing without being harsh and the bass is shockingly good for small monitors. For me, they're fast and detailed but not too forward. Maybe worth a try ...
knownothing
1,653 posts
 
Ja2austintx,

Funny Afranta mentions Dynaudios because in noting where you are from, I was going to suggest you go take a listen. I believe you still have a good Dynaudio dealer in Austin - I listened to and fell in love with a Rega table/PrimaLuna integrated/Dynaudio 52SE set up in that shop. I also heard some Dynaudio Audience 72's (now discontinued) with NAD separates and they sounded really good as well. I guess if you were to buy new, the Excite X32 would be the most comparable to Quad 22L2 or Epos M16i, but well above stated $1000 budget. Afranta seems to think the X12 could do the trick in your room, but I am skeptical. A good used pair of Audience 72's or 72SE's in particular, or even 52SE's would be very nice (although nobody in this price range comes close to the finish job on the Quads if that matters to you... nobody).
ja2austintx OP
64 posts
 
You're referring to Audio Systems. I've bought quite a bit of gear from them, but this time, I'm looking at used or blowout pricing.

That said, I just pulled the trigger on a set of 22L2 for an insane price. I'll let you know what I think. Thanks everyone for helping me wrap my head around this!
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