Well my quest is over! After several weeks of auditioning different speakers, I have made my decision - and I am very happy with it. I listened to speakers from Vandersteen, Harbeth, Totem, Fleetwood, Boenicke, Magico, Amphion, Klipsch, Nola, QLN and Magnepan. I listened to models within my price target and some way above it. Many sounded good, but just did not sound like an upgrade from my Linn Majik 140s (even the very expensive ones). Then I heard a pair of Gershman Grand Studios and it was love at first note (or maybe third). I could not believe how perfect they sound (to me). Very clear and transparent, with absolutely no harshness or edge to them. Great low end with fantastic accuracy. I think I could listen to them for hours with no fatigue at all. When listening to "Summer Time" from the "Ella and Louis" album I was completely engaged with Ella’s voice and then when Louis Armstrong’s trumpet came in I was just stunned at how realistic and present it sounded. I spent hours in the store just enjoying all my favorite tracks.
Thinking it might be the amp or room acoustics that were responsible I asked the salesman to move them to a different room and amp just to be sure. Thankfully he was able to haul the 80lbs speakers upstairs to a different room. Fortunately they sounded equally fantastic.
Despite my endless research on-line, I had never heard of Gershman Audio, so I guess it was a benefit that I had no pre-conceived ideas about their sound. The salesman offered a new set from the manufacturer or the ones I was listening to. I told him I want the ones in front of me - did not want to take any chances.
So thanks to everyone for their input. I am convinced these are the right speakers for me.
UPDATE: I just noticed the post before this one recommended the Gershman Grand Avante. I had not seen that post until after writing this post - certainly a coincidence.