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~$15K floorstanders: opinions sought

There a chance I'll be able to make a significant investment in my speakers within a few months, and jump from $4K/pr Focal 926 to something in the 10-15K range. I'm running krell gear and have no intention of changing electronics, they are perfectly suited to my ears - - but if new speakers expose weaknesses, then I'll tackle that later.

Here's the thing: aesthetics matter to me, a lot, and I'm not ashamed to admit it. I love my art and home and music is a huge part of my lifetime joy. These are some of the brands /models that I personally think are beautiful, and I'd love to hear from folks who could speak to a possible pairing with Krell. I like precision, speed, clarity, and firm bottom. 

Room is approx 18x20x9. New or used is ok.

Von Schweikert Endeavor SE
Vienna Acoustics Klimt The Music
Magico S3
JBL Synthesis (4700, 9900, etc.) 
Spatial (loved the demos I heard but not sure if OB would work in my space)

Appreciate any insight, despite the aesthetic emphasis. 
wassaicwill
paradisecom
319 posts
 
There have been some great sounding, yet kind-of ugly speakers suggested here. At that price point, I’d treat myself to something that not only performs beautifully, but is also something beautiful to look at and admire....

Sonus Faber Elipsa SE. There’s even a set on here for sale. If you have the ability, see about demo’ing a set (or the Strads), nearby.
soix
9,585 posts
 
Just going by the type of sound you’re looking for, I’d look at YG first and then add ATC, Magico, and Vivid although they may or may not meet your aesthetic tastes. 

Aesthetically, I think the Joseph Audio Perspective 2 is a very nice looking speaker that is not physically imposing but still plays large and sounds fabulous.  The Usher BE10 is larger but looks stunning with sonics to match.  And the Vandy Quatro is also a sonic stunner if you dig its looks, as is the Acoustic Zen Crescendo ll.  Avalon and Audio Physic are also excellent.  Just doing a brain dump in your price range as I don’t know which, if any, might appeal to you visually.  Best of luck in your search. 
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,318 posts
 
Opera Quinta SE.
mammothguy54's avatar
mammothguy54
949 posts
 
I agree with paradisecom about the Sonus Faber.  Gorgeous in appearance and outstanding in sound quality.  On a similar plane as that of the Dynaudio speakers I had mentioned above.  Both are excellent choices.
Best to you. 
steve59's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
steve59
1,779 posts
 
I liked the VA sound and wanted more than the beethovens could deliver. I tried several  of the $20k range List (bought used tho) and home demo’d a few. The salon2 I resold Because 250/425 wpc couldn’t push the woofers and I couldn’t get a convincing sound stage. The Usher be20dmd were really good, pretty efficient with a good mid range. I could probably have kept them but a pair of Meridian Dsp 8000’s came up and I offered what I got back from the salon2 sale for kicks and the seller accepted. These are amazing, but a complete system, not much room to tweak.
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