Best speakers For ARC VT100MKII


Here is a broad question but I thought I would post it and see what everyone has to say: I have been upgrading my system this year but my final quest is still for the right speaker.
I have an ARC VT100MKII (100watts per ch) paired with a LS25MKII and CD3MKII. Transparent super Bi-Cable with Transparent Bal IC's and power cable. I tried the Vandersteen 3A sig, just didn't work in my room. Considering the B&W 804D's, but concerned that I do not have enough power. I don't listen at extreme volumes but I don't want hear the amp strain or run out of headroom. Currently using my old Martin Logan Aeons which sound great but looking for a bit "bigger" sound and more more on par with the rest of gear.
Thanks,
Thank you
vdosc
Vdosc, the Wilson W/P speakers will produce the goals of your indicated #3 (though I wouldn't call their midrange liquid). However, they will fail in your #2 category above. For your size room, they would be a good pairing with this amp assuming you listen at "reasonable" sound levels - though still loud.

I have owned Wilson (Currently), B&W (formerly) and Martin Logan (Quests I believe and Aerius, both formerly). Of these, the Wilson and ML's will deliver the best soundstage, imaging, etc. . . But I understand your feeling about the bass/panel integration seeming a bit like a powered sub.

Other considerations (based on my ownership):
Thiel - great at #3, but not enough power.
Totem - very good at #3, pretty accomodating for #2 and depending on model safe with this amp (try Forrest or Hawks)
VS VR4JR - pretty good with your amp, somewhat accomodating (but need space behind) for placement, pretty solid overall for your #3 - but the bass can get sloppy based on placement
Gemme Katana (or other models) - very good with your amp, quite accomodating in terms of placement, very good for your #3 category (with the notation that the sound stage is more behind the speakers than in front of them). But these would be a good match with your amp
I owned B&W's in the past, but to be honest, I grew bored with their characteristics (not that they are bad, just not what I was seeking).

But again, any speaker is limited in its performance based on the phsyical room it is contained. You cannot get tight/accurate bass and good imaging in an acoustically bad room!
I'm hardly an expert, but I'll second the pairing of the ARC VT-100 Mk II with the Acoustic Zen Adagio. Really lovely.
Vdose:

I have a similar combination of componenta (see my system on line). The VT100MKII will sound great with a number of speakers. It matches well with the magnepans (1.7, 3.5, 3.6). The B&W 803D would also be a good match. My room is medium sized (15.5x26x8.5). I love the VT100NKII: great midrange, very dynamic and very good bass, with crystal clear treble.
I would second these:

Magnepan 3.6's or the new 3.7's. You can get a great deal on a used pair here on AudioGon. I'm not 100% sure how well the VT100 will drive the 3'6s - they like lots of current... but, it would be an interesting test.

A better choice I think would be one of the Wilson models; again, very good used ones can be had here on Audiogon and any of their lower level models would be an easy load and good match for the VT100...