Bookshelf speakers on a bookshelf (Sad)


Ok, building new house wife killed my stereo ambitions with an awful built in tv console cabinet.  Room is large, there is Sonos in the ceiling and outdoor area so that’s fine for background.  She sold my B&W 802s when we moved but thinks the McIntosh stuff looks cool so that can stay.  MA352 int amp and a mt5 turntable.  I thought there was room for floor standing speakers next to the built in but sadly there isn’t room.  I can put a sub in, budget is whatever, but I don’t want want to turn 20k Focals into $4000 speakers buried on a bookshelf.  Any suggestions?  Thanks, Mark 

128x128mduffy18d

Interesting comments here. I ran into the same problem when my wife hired a designer to advise us on our ongoing renovation project. Her first thoughts were to get rid of my hifi system!!!! Then said we didn’t need the 65” tv, next was the dogs crates, she said they could be locked up in the bedroom or outside. Then she went on to the furniture. Our recently purchased stressless sofa and chairs had to go. I was flabbergasted. Then she left and came back with her builder to give us a quote for the construction work. The contractor couldn’t speak much English told us 25k and 3 weeks to do it all. With cash payment “up front”. 
  Needless to say fired right away. The designer had the gall to send us a substantial bill, which we did not pay…

  I understand the op problems. My recommendation is to get into the house. Find something the wife agrees to live with. Not expensive, then look for a solution to the audio needs/wants. The Kef speakers are a great initial idea. 
  One final thought, if you now live on a golf course. Make sure you have protection for your windows. My father in law had hurricane shutters installed over his windows after getting hit a bazillion times. Sliding glass doors are a pain to have fixed. Enjoy your new house, welcome to Florida. It’s a great state to live in.

@mduffy18d 

Focal makes some wall mount speakers that sounded fantastic at Axpona. Maybe they could work for you. Good luck !

Very sad story. I don’t understand how she can sell something that belongs to you. No bookshelf speaker will give taste of B&W 802. You need a sub if you get bookshelf speaker. Sub will occupy also a lot of space and usually hated by wife. Try Wilson Sabrina. They occupy as much space as bookshelf on a stand. 

@mduffy18d You’ve certainly entrusted us with a lot of personal information.

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