Best small, desktop speakers, $500 or under (new or used)

I owned the bigger version of this and never used it to it's full ability since I was too close to the back wall and side wall. If you have the space check out the smaller version here for $480 used. I think this one has the front and rear drivers but not the side drivers.

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649624657-clairaudient-the-one-bookshelf-speakers/

i am love this thread
mon

@canibefrank -- it's great to talk about options in audio when the constraints and functions are fairly defined.

@superultramega

Here’s an indication about size of speakers and distance from wall for ports —

Here’s an example of TOO LARGE:
PARADIGM MINI H 13.4 x W 8.3 x D 11.4

Here are examples of GOOD SIZE:

PINNACLE speaker dimensions:11.37 H x 6.75 W x 6.5 D

PARADIGM ATOM H 10.6 x W 6.7 x D 8.7

I think front ports would be helpful. I find it hard to get them more than 8” from their walls.

I paid $389 for my C1 pair new on Amazon about a year ago, FYI. Sealed is nice for desk and with only 8” behind. They are currently in my main HT system, which maybe could be considered a promotion from backup duty in my third music system, where the Kefs are (or maybe a lateral move, haha). If your amp is neutral or laid back, the C1’s should be fine. If your amp is forward, then maybe not.
The Kef q150, while rear ported, do include port bungs.