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
@photomax try Hawthorne Stereo in Univ District, then  make a day of it by visiting Advanced audio in Tacoma, then Gig Harbor Audio  in GH, get a cold beverage and Halibut burger at Tides Tavern

^^ I did get to listen to the Spendor D7s, some active ATCs and a pair of Audio Physics at Hawthorne. The Spendors sounded awesome.

Across the street at a Definitive Audio you can check out B&W, Linn, Sonas Fabers and really expensive Wilson’s...
@photomax you got it! Advanced in Tacoma is owned by Definitive but carries some different gear - notably for me Vandersteen. You definitely owe yourself a visit and Eric at GHA always has something interesting cooking, anyway have fun and enjoy your search!