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$1000 bookshelf speakers with "recessed", "laid back" or "flat" mid-range?

Dear all,
As stated above, I am looking for a bookshelf speaker with a mid-range that is laid back, recessed or flat. I currently own a pair of Elac Uni-Fi UB5, and I find their presentation quite forward in the mid-range, which I don't appreciate, especially at moderate to high volumes. I also own a pair or Pioneer SP-BS22, which I find more pleasing sounding (particularly the more recessed mid-range) than the Elac.
Since I can't audition speakers where I live, I am asking for your recommendations on bookshelf speakers that have a more "recessed" or "flatter" presentation in the mid-range. I have a budget of $1000. Any help will be much appreciated. Thanks in advance!
128x128luciano33
otooleme
30 posts
 
If you think ELACs are bright don't try to fix them.  Vandersteen VLR does this for $1500 a pair but worth a listen even if it is a stretch. 

luciano33's avatar
luciano33 OP
63 posts
 
I don't think they are bright, in fact, the top is not "lively" at all. I think the UB5's have a very forward midrange (e.g., voices, guitars, etc, sound way in front of other instruments and at a relatively higher volume than the rest of the music), which becomes very prevalent at moderate to high volumes. Thanks for the suggestion on the Vandersteen speakers!
last_lemming
638 posts
 
I own the Canton 9.2’s. Very musical and just a bit on the warm side with crazy bass for their size. Image very well and sound very natural.

you can still get them NOS for $1400, but they were original $4000 10 years ago. 
luciano33's avatar
luciano33 OP
63 posts
 
Hey guys, 
Found a crazy good deal on a pair of Definitive Technology D11. I read great reviews and none mentioned these speakers being forward. In fact, I saw they have a great almost flat response. I think they'll pair well with the Yamaha integrated. We'll see. Cheers!
kahlenz's avatar
kahlenz
274 posts
 
Too bad you don't have an extra $1500 or so to spend.  Harbeth makes a line of speakers that are quite easy to live with.
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