Speaker recommendations for small space


We are in a tiny place with lots of limitations. The days of dipoles are gone. I'm creating a minimalist system strictly for audio, not home theater. I have created some images of the space:

http://brumidis.com/gallery/main.php?g2_itemId=1539

At the same time I'm moving to a Squeezebox (for now)and flac, wireless or wired. Active speakers would be ideal, but not necessary. We currently have an Antique Soundlabs AQ1001DT (60w)and an Anthem Integrated 2(90w @8ohms, 145w@4ohms)

Sweet spot is about 8' from speakers. The original plan was to eliminate the amps and use an active speaker (and Squeezebox) to minimalize. Quad 12L was at the top of the list. We will budget for a good, musical subwoofer.

I've lived a life with Apogee, Acoustat, Magnepan and Dynalabs and really resent giving it up, but there is no way to get large planars past WAF and space. Box speakers would look funky attached to the wall. Then I started searching for a wall mount. In wall is out since there is brick, etc. Magnepan MC1 and Martin Logan Vignette came to my attention. Both are in the price range, but just not sure of the quality.

I'm open to recommendations and wonder if the MC1 or Vignette would sound acceptable with a quality sub.

Also considering placing the sub in fireplace, but if that doesn't work,I'll find a place for it on the floor. Then again, there is an overhang area (seen in photos, over TV)which could possibly work.

Also note the slanted ceiling in the photos.

Will buy used. Speaker budget up to $600-1,000 and sub %500-700. I typically buy used but priority is sound, of course!

Thanks for any feedback. I'm confused.
128x128Ag insider logo xs@2xamansker
You might be very pleased at the sound that you can get out of small speakers. I set up a pair of Von Schweikert VR1's (used about $500) for my brother with a sub and an Onkyo receiver into a similar space (open on the two side walls) for near field listening. They rest on a cabinet that holds the gear and has a thin TV between.
The sound is one that I could listen to all day and has much of the beauty, sweetness, and naturalness of a larger system.
there is a nice set of De Capos for 1050.00 on this site.

No need for a sub unless you want thumping, sounds good at low volumes
Have you considered the Gallo on-wall stuff? Haven't heard it personally, but I doubt Gallo would put out anything less than amazing.