Best Two-Way Monitor Speakers under $700 New/Used


So, here goes. I have a good friend who needs audiophile recommendations (you guys) for two-way speaker replacement with a budget not to exceed $700 new (or used) for the pair of speakers. He will place the monitor speakers on stands - color is important. Expresso finish or black color is preferred because it matches his room furniture. With that in mind, let me know what you think. He's running a NAD integrated solid state amp (but I'm anxiously trying to convince him to purchase a tube integrated or separates). He has a Music Hall turntable and Morrow Audio interconnects and speaker cabling. I recommended Totem Mites, Dynaudio Excite 12 (used) and Paradigm. Any other ideas that come to mind? Thanks in advance for your help.
wescoman
Those are all great recommendations.

I suggest he get out and do some listening. The favorites of complete strangers will not help him to develop his own ear for music and sound preferences.

He may as well do a search for $700 and under speakers and buy what looks good to his eye. He has the same chance of picking a winner/loser IMO.
1. Green Mountain Audio Europa
2. Von Schweikert VR-1
3. Spica TC-50
4. Vandersteen VLR-1

Finding the desired color may be a challenge.

Every one of these speakers has its own set of virtues. It will be up to your friend to decide on priorities. None of the speakers in this list are bright. However, it seems Audiophile speakers today are bright sounding. It's the same old thing where the bright speaker during an audition wins out over the more natural sound. The majority of speakers are still designed for marketing, so advise your friend to be careful when listening.
Tannoy revolution DC-6 MONITORS; espresso finish
their performance was stunning and I bought them for my B system.

Their dual concentric driver configuration creates something special that needs to be experienced personally.
Check out the reviews and try to arrange an audition personally.
I have a mint pair of three year old Spendor 3/5r's in black ash I was thinking of selling. If you are interested let me know. I would have to clear $700.00 so no paypal unless he pays fee. Great monitor. The price of these were 1395.00 new. Think about it.(860-583-5705)ask for Brett.