Looking for "Last" 2 channel speaker system.

I love the Avalon Isis speakers, and sonically, they are top notch, (but to be honest, I truly doubt you'll ever find them for $25K used - $35K used is the normal price range.) They are rather tall though, so your requirement for a smaller speaker might not be as fulfilled with that speaker. (Their footprint is not too large though.)

If I might make a recommendation, and that is to audition the Rockport line of speakers. They are really top notch, both sonically, (as that is the most important aspect), but also aesthetically.

If you could find a pair of used Antares, I think you would be more than happy. They are not very tall, and while the footprint is somewhat large, it is not huge by any means. (They are heavy though, at about 400 pounds each.) Used they probably go for between $25-30K. They are very accurate, but not analytical in the least. They are very musical, but do not have a hint of mid-range bloom. The bass is there when you want it, but there is no bass boominess at all. And the treble is outstanding, as it is very refined and well extended.

(In case you're wondering, No, I don't own them, (a friend does), but I certainly do wish I did!!)

My two cents worth.

The Vandersteen 7's is a good Choice for full delivery top to bottom. Also the Wilson Sasha is a good speaker to consider. The vandys list around 46K and the Sashas are a great value at 26K.

Thanks for the feedback and recommendations! Also for the clarification.......yes of course the front end matters, obviously.....but I change things quite a bit, and look to do changes in the future, so I can't say this will be my pre or that will be my source, I just don't know so I wanted to keep this discussion to speakers! If someone has a speaker/amp combo they want to suggest, great!

The Vandersteen will get a look as well as the Rockport, I have read many good things about the Altair, although a used pair would probably get up in the mid $40's.

On another note, yes an audio show would be a great way to go, and I hope to get to the RMAF in the fall......I would just like to be pre-informed with somewhat of a shortlist before I attend! So, thanks everyone for the suggestions, also thanks for those that emailed me with links!

Hello Sir,

It is apparent that you know your gear and have the $ to be able to buy pretty much what you want. I also assume that you are totally familiar with room acoustics, and the basics of synergy between components and all else. These factors are HUGE in determining what is "best" for you. While I have not invested mega bucks (and that needs to be defined) ever on gear, I have arrived at my final system unless I move into a different house/ audio room. I am using the Green Mountain Audio EOS HD's with the Vandersteen SqW subwoofer. I have a Bent Audio autotransformer based passive pre, and a 25 watt push-pull Daniel Fabricant EICO St-70 clone. All high-end wiring and digital source - no vinyl. What makes this system magical is that the Vande sub uses a first-order cross-over as does the GMA"s - no phase issues. The low watt tube amp is "relieved" of stress to be able to properly produce lush musical mids and highs, by the Vande outboard crossover removing all under 80 hz, and that with amplifier impedance matching via dip switches in the cross-over. In short, you have a powerful, and yet extremely musical and dynamic set up. Sorry for all the embellishments, but this is what works for me and for a whole lot less money. If you want to spend more, get 2 subs for better spacial cues. PS - my mother was a very gifted concert pianist - my musical memory is quite keen and I know what sounds "correct". Have fun - Eric

I have said this on this forum before, and I will say it again, do try some Tannoys out. My custom thirty-five year old HPD 315's are among the most musical speakers in my long experience, are easy to drive, at 93db sensitivity, and are easily among the best I've heard in getting the scale of music right than most speakers I've heard.

Good luck in your search, and enjoy shopping,
Dan