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

Sorry never heard R100s so couldn’t say.

I’d assume probably little better but would have to hear both. R100 higher series but also older series I think right? I’m no Kef expert, just grabbed the q150s when they were on sale half price a month ago to get some more variety and was really impressed (admittedly probably wasn’t expecting too much but they were better than expected). 

I think part of it is I’m pretty underwhelmed with my Spendor SA1. They aren’t worth their msrp.

If I include my D1 (3.2k msrp) in the mix as a true reference bookshelf speaker imo (they are fantastic), and rate the D1 as 100, then the SA1 drops to 77, the Kef q150 a 74 on this scale, the NHT C1 a 67, and Absolute Zero a 42.
Just my opinion and damn I am really rambling on here but maybe this helpful for some or maybe n........

Thanks, guys. The NHT sound interesting.

125 responses to a $500 or less speaker. You’re overthinking this My Man

Maybe I already bought some speakers.
Maybe I just like to watch the monkeys dance.

@kren0006, I was pretty impressed with the R100’s so I was curious about the Q150’s as well.  I may have to give those, or the q350’s a try someday as well.  The Q150’s seem to get good reviews.

Bummer about the SA-1’s.  I would have thought that those would have been awesome as well 🤷🏼

Is the R series much better than the he q series?

There is a pair of White,Dynaudio Excite X14's for sale here on Agon.They have damaged cabinets but the drivers are perfect.Comes with full 8 year Dynaudio warranty.Asking price is $550.00..If you could get them for less there is NOTHING for $500.00 that could compete,we're talking a $1500.00 speaker.I've owned a pair & it took $3500.00 Harbeths to surplant them...