Advice on near-field speakers (eg, Raidho X-1)


I recently started a thread asking whether a stand-mount speaker could reward critical listening, and enough people were encouraging that I'm moving forward. Given how difficult it is to audition speakers these days, I'd appreciate some advice on which speakers might work well for me. 

I have a small, 10x12 room that I can use as a dedicated listening room. My budget for the speakers is 10k, though I'd prefer less, and I'll be buying a new amp and probably subs to fill out the sound. Like Lou Reed, I have a rock and roll heart, but for this room I'm primarily interested in chamber music, symphonic music, solo piano, and (instrumental) jazz.

It's easier for me to say what I don't want: I don't want a "fun," "exciting," "surprising" small speaker that "punches above its weight" (I want an excellent speaker regardless of size). I'm not drawn to a sound that is lean, punchy, forward, or aggressive, and I'm wary of speakers that (over)emphasize resolution. I don't want a cute toy for rich people (which is how Wilson advertises its TuneTots, though it may be a great speaker). I don't like an overly bright, fatiguing upper end. 

I've lived with Maggies for years and I love that relaxed, open, airy sound that doesn't call attention to itself. I appreciate a natural timbre, open soundstage, and "musical" imaging. A warm sound is better than a cool one. I'd like a speaker that can do strings justice at low-to-medium volume. (Yes, I know I'm asking about small speakers here.)

I've read some intriguing things about the Raidho X-1 and XT-1. They'd likely need subs but they're designed for small rooms and get some very positive reviews. I can't tell, though, whether they have the kind of sound I'm describing. I'd appreciate thoughts from anyone who knows them.

Here are some of the other speakers I've been reading about, eliminating speakers that I have no chance of hearing (Wilson-Benesch, Reference 3A, TAD ME-1). 

Boenicke W5
Harbeth (P3ESR or 30.?; I'm a bit flummoxed by the new line)
JA Pulsars
Dutch and Dutch 8C
Focal Sopra or Diablo ($$)
Magico A1
KEF Reference1
Boressen Z1 ($$)
Spendor

I'd love to take any of these off my list if folks think they're not what I'm after in terms of sound or room. I've heard the Harbeths and can do a home trial of them; I've enjoyed hearing the Pulsars but they're rear ported and may need more space from the front wall than I have. And some of these seem a bit physically big to me but maybe that doesn't matter.

Once again, thank you! I really appreciate the knowledge and wisdom out here.



northman
Scott, that's a fantastic write-up, and I appreciate your positive tone and incredibly helpful advice. Given that you have a stake in these matters, your generous appraisals are all the more welcome. 

@lancelock , I can't say I know much about the Gamut speaker (is there an east coast dealer?) but I have heard some wonderful things. In this case, though, @yogiboy is right: beyond my budget!
One comment. There is no such thing as “too fast” for a subwoofer. You could say a Dome tweeter is too fast for a sub but nobody goes direct From a tweeter to a sub. A driver’s speed is indicated by its frequency response. It’s transient response is a matter of motor design and the enclosure. I pair 12” subwoofers to full ranges ESLs just fine. 
@verdantaudio,  I have a tiny room (9 x 11) with great soundlab esl speakers. I sit 5-6 ft from them and they are big and block my line of sight to the imaginary stage. I listen to a lot of acoustics, jazz and vocals. I really don't like shrill and sibilance but I don't think I want a monitor--I want a full speaker. I have heard great things about Harbeth. Would this work? If so, which model?
@chungjh Harbeth has a very smooth and natural sound.  Given how small your space is, I would look at the M30.2 XD.  I think anything bigger than that would be too much.  
Regarding tube amps, in your other thread you were asking about them.  For high power, (over 50w), I think VTL is excellent.  
I would look at he VTL S-200.  100w in triode.  Brilliant sound and plenty of power.  Not cheap at $12,500 but I have had good experiences with VTL gear.  I had a pair of MB185 monos.  
For less expensive gear I like Rogue.  They don’t offer a stereo amp that will deliver 100w in triode, but the stereo 100 does offer 100w in Ultralinear and is very good sounding.  
Good luck