Help me choose a CL special - $200

Some things to consider:

To my ears the Met 7's are the most interesting choice. They are classics that have some musical qualities that none of the others do; imo. They can sound really really good, and are very sophisticated little speakers. But you will need stands. The subwoofer (if set up well) will relieve the NAD of needing to power lower bass and will add weight to the sound. The Met's are efficient, but the NAD (also a classic) is not exactly a powerhouse. For my tastes, if you don't plan on playing a lot of very loud music, these sound more like music than the others.

The Paradigm's are the most efficient, and would be my second choice if
you want a floor stander and is probably the safer choice all around.

The Vandersteens are also good, but so is a Honda Civic :-)

I live in the SF bay area. For $200 and under there are a lot of choices. The DCM TF350's were going for $80, the Klipschs were $125 and I saw a bunch of Polk and Infinity tower speakers (large ones) for a bit over $200/pair.

Even this sounds like a deal: B&W DM601 S3 Speakers - $250 (los altos)

After I settle on speakers, I may just start looking for a tubed amp... but that's another thread...

Ahh, yes the Bay area has alot to offer on CL...good luck.

Quick update. I have both the Met7's and the Vandy 1C's in house. They are both very good considering their price points. Bottom line, between the 2 with my equipment, the Met7's are the clear winner. Amazing little speakers. They virtually disappear and are incredibly dynamic. The Vandy's are more full sounding but I am still aware that I am listening to a speaker.

I am sure that if I upgraded my electronics and source that my option of these speakers may change. I am finding that the Vandy's are very sensitive to equipment and to placement. I am wondering if i have not properly placed the Vandys.

The MET 7's are a really good choice, particularly so since you have a sub. Nice you could hear both in your system. I too place a high value on a speaker being able to disappear as the sound source, and on dynamic range. Cheers.