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Loudspeaker Recommendations: Standmount or Small Footprint Floorstanding under $2k

Hi there,

Having received great recommendations here over the years I figured I’d check back in while I’m considering my next move.

Current system:
-- Totem Rainmakers (on sand filled speaker stands)
-- Heed Obelisk SI III Integrated Amp (built in phono)
-- Bluesound Node 2i into a Chord Mojo DAC
-- Clearaudio Concept TT with MM V2 cartridge
-- Cabling by Audioquest and Signal Cable

Here’s what I currently love about how my system sounds:
1) Instrument articulation is very nice. I really enjoy the timbre of instruments whether it’s the sustain of a drum or cymbal, the crunchiness of distorted electric guitars, or the airiness of an upright bass.

2) Imaging for days... It’s massive and very three dimensional. This makes listening fun and engaging for me.

3) Instrument separation is wide and easy to pinpoint.


I really do love how this system sounds, but am looking for a speaker that can offer more lower end dynamics at reasonable, or relatively moderate, listening volumes. I don’t want super deep bass, but just a touch more to help fill in what’s desired. Does this make sense?

Budget is no more than $2k, but ideally want to spend around $1500, and happy to purchase pre-owned to help stretch my dollars further.

128x128stereosanctity
sfar's avatar
sfar
1,760 posts
 
I've been extremely happy with a pair of Nola Boxer S1 speakers in a system with a Raven Audio Blackhawk LE amp. It did for me exactly what you're describing, more fullness in the lower frequencies while maintaining a very open articulate sound in that range. They brought a kind of coherence to the music I hadn't had before. The Boxer has had a number of upgrades and you likely can find one within your price range. Here's one example of the original model, which I owned before getting the S1 model, https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lis9i1aj-accent-speaker-technology-nola-boxer-full-range 
Lots of reviews online and you can check hifishark.com for listings.
lak's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
lak
4,658 posts
 
Based upon your description of your system and what you like about it I'd be inclined to add a good subwoofer. Depending upon the size of your room I'd suggest one of the following, REL T/9i, T/7i, T/5i or T/Zero.
rocray's avatar
rocray
1,448 posts
 
Not sure of the size of your room,(important info) however if you have a smaller to mid size room, I second the Nola Boxer choice. I have a pair of Boxer 2's,and they do bass very well. Image wonderfully,great soundstage,just an all around great speaker. Of course your ears are different than mine,so YMMV.
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