New Speaker Conundrum - Vandy's, Spendors, Salk, Ascend - Mainstream or ID


I am very lucky to be close to Audio Connection and John has outfitted my entire rig over the years. I am currently running Ares/RP-7 to M-180s - always liked Mark's designs and he/Nick are so approachable over at Rogue.

I used to run 2CE IIs for the longest time and loved them and I thought I would give ID a try and landed a pair of Double Impacts - which I love.

However, I have the upgrade itch and I am in two minds on whether I want to go back to Vandy's or look at Salk/Ascend.

I have narrowed down my list to Spendor D9s, Vandy Treo CTs, Salk Soundstage 8s and potentially the Sierra Towers. I am going over to Johnny's this weekend for another listening session with the Treos and potentially Quatros.

I have always looked (more likely lurked) on these forums over the years for advise - unfortunately never posted :(.
cptkaos
The SS 9.5 is Salk's best speaker.  The only issue is where to audition it.  But if you can hear the Song 3 BeAT or the larger Song 3 Encore, that will give you more than a taste of the 9.5.
@twoleftears my worry with that is buying without auditioning. I did try that with my Tektons but not sure I want to do that again. Though I only hear good things about Salks.
I think this thread has some great suggestions and I hope it helps others as much as it is helping me. Thank you all.