Attractive Bookshelf - Under $3k


I'm looking to upgrade my Dali Ikon IIs for a living room, where the aesthetics are a big part of the decision.  I'm heavily leaning towards the SF Sonetto IIs, but I've never heard them, and that is purely based on the appearance and a few reviews.  I plan to drive these with a Belles Aria integrated.  I know it's a long list, but I'm just hoping for some thoughts, or perhaps a good reason (or not) to go with the Sonettos.  While I'd love to listen to them all, It's unlikely that I'll find them on display.  I've already heard the Vandersteen CT which was when I auditioned my amp and think they're awesome.  I'm just not sure they're "pretty" enough for the room.

Thanks!

Triangle    40th Aniversary Comète
Sonus Faber    Sonetto II
Dynaudio     Special 440
Dynaudio     Evoke 20
Focal    Kanta no 1
Focal     Aria 906
Vandersteen    VLR Wood
Vandersteen    VLR CT
Dali    Rubicon 2
Harbeth    P3ESR XD
ProAc    Tablette 10
ProAc    Tablette 10 Signature
Fyne    F500 SP
 

msafrick

Look at Salk. You can call him and have the cab it custom made to almost any wood and finish you like. Send him a pic of the room and if you like he can make them disappear.

I've never heard them, but the reviews have always been stellar for Van L Speakerworks' Quartet Series. Last time i was in the market they were $2,995.  I e-mailed John, the owner, about them and he was very prompt in his reply and very detailed. From what i've read, he and his products are well thought of in the Chicago area.

http://www.vanlspeakerworks.com/index.html

Anyone on this thread familiar with them?

All the speakers in your list seem impressive.  If I were you, I will start by reviewing all the reliable reviews given by the reviewers you thrust and come up with a short list of three by elimination.  For example, Fyne Audio F500SP review by What Hi-Fi? was critized lack of dynamic agility although they were appraised impressive sense of scale, punchy and plenty of bass.  You might eliminate them if you thrust What Hi-Fi? and care about dynamic performance of the oudspeakers.  Upon obtaining the short list, you could start up the home trials if the manufactures offer.  Going into the store (if you have access) and take even a few hours of auditioning is not going to be enough for decision making based on my experience.  Worser yet, if you throw in so many choices to the Audiogoners and ask for advises without doing your due diligence, you will likely get nothing but even more confusions, not to mention the fact that the Audiogoners will always politely throw in more choices for you.