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Best speaker in the $5-10K range. Details below.

Thank you all in advance for your help. I am a long time member but first time poster. I have a speaker budget of ~$5k. I could stretch it if needed to 8-9 if necessary and 10 MAYBE.

My room is 16'x18' with 10' ceilings. I am currently using Usher 6311's with a JL Audio f112. I am enjoying the sound I have but would like to upgrade. Using a Metrum DAC, Dodd Battery preamp and AMB labs balanced B22 amp (30-50 wpc).

I would like to upgrade my speakers but I do not have the time or opportunity to audition speakers at hifi dealers.

Based upon reading mags, web searches, etc. I have come up with some considerations. Speakers that might fit my requirements include Legacy Classic HD, Salk HT3, VMPS RM 30, Usher Mini Dancer 2 dmd, Magnepan 3.7, and Von Schweikert 35. I am not limiting my search to these and would greatly appreciate any experience, suggestions etc. to help me out.

Musical preferences include mostly rock/classic rock. jazz, and occasionally classical. Thanks again.

Regards,
jjr
joe2687
joe2687 OP
5 posts
 
Thanks for the replies everyone. I would much prefer to be able to travel and listen, but it's a practical impossibility for me right now.

I am certainly open to in home audition and don't mind 'investing' a bit in shipping costs.

@Marakanetz: I also have a pair of Bella Extreme 100w mono's that are being tuned up right now and will be returned to me soon.

@Rleff: A little upgraditis but I would also like a more upfront soundstage, more midrange presence, more oomph in the upper bass and a little more treble sparkle (but not bright or harsh).
jfz
570 posts
 
I would at least consider Merlins.
erikminer
433 posts
 
Jfz.. like everyone else said if you don't audition the ones you want it's a total crap shoot.. The only reasonably safe bet would be to move up the Usher line, since you own Ushers.. You also didn't mention what you are using for cables or power line, so there could be substantial improvements lurking there. You can borrow cables and power products from the Cable Company http://thecableco.com/ and you might just find that these upgrades would move you closer to where you want to be. You also didn't mention how the speakers are setup, there also could be a lot of performance to gain in how the speakers are setup...
rok2id's avatar
rok2id
7,859 posts
 
You can buy based on opinions and reviews, just not the opinions and / or reviews of 'audiophiles'. They all have this 'I know best attitude'. Just remember the old thingy: recognize the truth when you hear it, and be governed by it. I know of nothing in which this entire site is in total agreement. if you ask a question you get as many different answers as posters. Good Luck. It helps if you do not believe stereo components are magical.
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,479 posts
 
Auditions are very good, but unfortunately one really never knows until the system is up and running in your room with your equipment. This means buying, trying and sometimes selling.

Like to avoid the selling part, but not always possible.
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