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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
rrog
1,958 posts
 
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.
akg_ca's avatar
akg_ca
2,310 posts
 
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.
yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,755 posts
 
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.
wescoman OP
117 posts
 
Hello everyone. Thanks for the responses. These recommendations are great! I'll share them with him and continue to monitor the thread for new ideas.
rar1's avatar
rar1
1,792 posts
 
I own the Totem Mites and they require very good equipment with them to sound their best. They also do not put out a lot of bass. This may be breaking his budget a bit, but I would go for Ascend Acoustic Sierra 1s , which come in a Gloss Expresso, which is a stunning look. Ascend runs periodic seasonal sales and Labor Day is around the corner. I picked up my pair new for about $800. Outstanding speaker with exceptional presence.

Rich
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