My Demo results: I feel like I'm at a frustrating block in my speaker journey

I'm a late poster here, so forgive me if I'm repeating others.  I've found that allowing speakers (and all components for that matter) to break in makes a huge difference.  The difference in speakers is largely in bass, but in some speakers tweeters also smooth out with use.  Tannoys in my former listening room (a very lively one) were too bright--the opposite of dark.  I'm not sold on a single brand, but I have found Tannoy Revolution XT8Fs are incredibly flexible--tight and deep bass with good highs that accurately reflect their source (for better or worse).  I have now moved and my room is far less reflective; my Tannoy XT8Fs have settled in while also coming alive.  As I audition new components, they never fail to reveal differences--including that of breaking in new components!  I would not say they are the most involving--that honor goes to Sonus Faber Cremona Ms, though likely many others too.  Best of luck in your search--it's worth it!

1. Electronics need to match the speakers. In fact, the entire system, cables and all, needs to work together. But the ’wrong’ power or pre-amp and great sounding speakers will suck.
2. Once you've selected the speakers and electronics, the room makes a huge difference, size, shape, treatment, furniture, speaker location and sitting position, and bass traps are worth every nickel, particularly in a typical box of a room with standing wave issues. For example, too, speakers are likely happiest when a few feet from the back wall and at least a few of feet from the side walls.
2. I noted before seeing your budget, $3000, that there are three brands worth looking at, each quite different, but each stunning in their own way. (a) Wilson Audio (pick your range, a good used selection are around), (b) Sonus Faber Amati Anniversario or Stradaveri ((these will be used, the new models miss the point), though the gentle high end and overall warmth may be too much for your taste, I recommend they are worth a listen) and (c) as others have mentioned, Magnapan (pick your range, add subwoofer to taste). Maybe $3000 is not sufficient for your objective. I say this because you will need to improve your pre-amp and amplifier to match the speakers.

I’ve had the Sonus Faber, both models noted above - these speakers are like bringing the symphony orchestra home (or Van Halen, or Miles Davis, or really - anything you could pump through them) all musicians came home in that set up. At first I was using Audio Research Reference 210 monoblocks and LS-27 preamp for electronics. Since the fireworks of tubes giving up the ghost isn’t very family friendly, I’ve moved to the Audia Flight Strumento #4 v.2, with the Audio Research LS-27 preamp. I miss tubes, but the Audiaflight is stunning. 

I have the Marantz 8801 multimedia preamp (11.2 channels, balanced) and would use it only for AV, running it through the LS-27 for the front L/R. It's not really THAT good for music.

All this is to say, you have the right idea. Just keep at it. there has been a lot of good advice here.

It seems amazing to me that for a guy who is admittedly a neophyte in the stereo listening hobby you seem to be amazingly insightful into the shortcomings of an Andrew Jones designed pair of highly acclaimed Elac speakers. Hmmm...

After reading a couple dozen responses (not the full 100 or so responses) i note that you mention your variety of music tastes and that you have a Marantz 5014 A/V receiver.

Your audio system components make up a chain of sound reproduction, and a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. 

The Marantz is a good mid-range receiver. It's most notable characteristic is a smooth overall tonal quality. It's rhythmic timing is, however, bettered by other components including the Denon AVR-X3600H. The Denon is also more detailed which clearly implies partnering with speakers which have a refined treble character. 

If you only play in stereo there's an even better-sounding choice called the Cambridge Audio CXA81 amplifier. This one brings the music to life even better than the Denon and Marantz receivers.

Going back to the "chain" analogy please consider every link and how it enhances or detracts from the overall sound. For example, if your primary sound source for listening is .mp3 music cast from your smartphone via bluetooth to your receiver, then no amount of money spent on receiver or speakers will save the system because the music source is of low quality. As the old hi-fi saying goes, garbage in - garbage out. If, on the other hand, you primarily listen to 24-bit/192KHz streamed or downloaded music then you may certainly justify spending your money on good equipment.

So, the links in the chain are:
1. Music source - 24/192 FLAC or ALAC, 24/96 FLAC or ALAC, Vinyl, SACD, CD, .WAV, 320KB MP3 / 192KB MP3 / 128KB MP3, FM radio, Digital radio.
2. Player - Turntable, smartphone, FM tuner, PC / Laptop / Music server.
3. Transmission method - Good quality audio cables, Bluetooth, Wi-fi.
4. Amplifier/Receiver.
5. Speakers.
6. Room.
7. Your ears.

Consider optimizing links 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6 before you finalize your speaker choice. I promise you will be happier with the overall results if you can attend to those links first.
 

Have your dealer set up a pair of Magneplaner speakers in YOUR ROOM and see if they work for you.

Cheers,

Richard