Frequency Response

I find it ludicrous that people can't just give you an answer. It should be noted that linearity is very important but you didn't ask for that information.

The OP asked for guidelines in regard to frequency response. Addressing linearity is FAR more important that upper/lower extension, and is equally relevant. So that is answering his question. As a guideline, deviation from flat is the spec that should be focused upon.

Please consider that the frequency response should be accommodated by the room in which they will be placed in.

True, room interaction is important ... but there's no way to determine that from a published spec.

OK folks, let me back up a bit. I'm trying to get a sense of certain sets of speakers (I don't have the luxury of going and listening to a lot). My old speakers, which were floorstanders, had a range of 38hz-20khz (good, average???). So as I;m specing new speakers, I'm just trying to get an idea of a "comfort" zone in terms of range....I have seen floorstanders at the low end anywhere from 20hz-40hz, and at the top end anywhere from 20khz-100khz.....but there is usually a sweet spot that most fall into. That is the sort of thing that I'm trying to figure out. I realize it's not the best way to go, but in my situation I am buying everything "deaf" so to speak. As far as the D/B I'm finding a number of companies only give you the range, not the D/B.

I also realize that my original post wasn't the best....but I can't go back and edit it. Also to some of you, I think you need to cut a little slack. You're right I don't know as much as you about this stuff....that's why I'm here.

I'll try and help. Manufacturers don't tell you all the specs such as +/- 3db linearity. You will find that type of data in a review of the speakers.
A typical floorstander may have freq. response of 34hz-20khz, but sensitivity should be high, around 88 or 90 dB ; that would be an efficient spkr.(easy to drive and can get very loud in a small room).
Also, a 4 ohm spkr will need a more powerful amp than a 8 ohm spkr. Then you need to be aware of the crossover fequencies of each driver.
I suggest start reading speaker reviews and how the specs are being measured. Hope that helps a bit.

I think +/- 3dB is the standard way of expressing the linearity of the frequency response, and if you did not quote the deviation in your 30-30k spec, I'm going to assume it. You are doing well if your speakers are only down 3dB at 30Hz - that's very nice bass response. Mine don't go that low.

I am more enamoured by speakers that are efficient (say greater than 92db/w/m) and present an easy impedance load to the amplifier - say not under 10 Ohms.

Then again, I like low power amps.

Regards,