Floorstanding speakers - $2-3K


I am a retired 74 year old. One of my hobbies is, slowly but surely, improving my satisfaction from my “basement” stereo system.

I run Tidal Premium into Bluesound Nodi 2i > Denafrips Ares II > (recently purchased) Kinki Studio ex-m1. I also have a Classe AMP2 class D amp that I use without a preamp.

I recently started with a pair of ELAC Uni-Fi UB5 bookshelf speakers and the moved up to Wharfdale Evo 4.2s. The room is around 18 x 18 with 9 foot ceilings. I listen to a variety of music.

The UB5s were amazing for the price, and that also applies to the Wharfdales. I had considered a move up to the Wharfdale Evo 4.3 or 4.4, however, I would like to find a set of floorstanding speakers that encompass the strengths of the Wharfdale Evos but push the vocals just a little bit further forward in the soundstage...and possibly also a bit more lively.

In an attempt to save my back I would like to keep the weight of the speaker to <75lbs each.


chinook9
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@giantsalami 
Small world.  You bought my REL subs to pair with your DI monitors.  Guess what speaker I just picked up for my second system--The KC II Pro's!  Opted for paper version.  I think the OP would like these.  But in my room I absolutely need to run subs.  Heck of a value for what I payed.  

Would love your thoughts on the DR crossover upgrade.  Was going to do cap upgrade but would love your thoughts on what his rework of the crossover did vs the original
Hey there, I have tried many floor stander speakers and for the price range you are looking at I can/will suggest checking out a pair of SVS Prime Pinnacle Floor speakers direct from their factory store. This particular model was just recently voted “Best Floorstand Speaker 2020” by an organization of well known HI FI magazine editors. For what I believe $1600 for a brand new pair with 30 day return policy, you can also get, in their ‘Outlet” section a blemished set for $1400 in piano black or black oak. I had recently purchased their Prime Bookshelf speakers used and loved them so I just bought a used pair of their Ultra bookshelves in piano white (rare!) and they are fantastic as well! SVS is a well known subwoofer company that entered into the speaker market about 10 yrs ago with their Ultra series and continue to blow away everyone who has has the pleasure to listen to. I know I will have a pair of the Ultra towers eventually! Check them out if you still haven’t decided, you won’t be disappointed!
Another vote for Tekton. Easy to drive with almost anything and sound very very good for the price and above. I honestly don't think you can beat them at the price point for an overall great full range speaker. They do most things very well in an "audiophile" sense such as detail and tone and are fun to listen to.