Best bookshelf speakers???

I started placing my speakers inside bookcases to make it difficult for my cats to get at the speakers. The bookcases are sealed back, as well, so I have a box inside a box situation.

The best performing speakers in this situation were the Rega Ara (now the R1) and the Ascend Acoustics Sierra 1. The worst were the Totem Mites, B&W 302, and the Spendor SA1. So-so performers were Energy RC10 and Wharfedale Diamond 9.1. I have tried a few speakers out.

The box inside a box situation is a killer. Speakers that perform well near rear walls, may not do well with a furniture ceiling an inch or three away. Make sure to place the speakers as close to the shelf's front edge, as possible. You will not get good sound separation, so don't torture yourself trying. You can get good sound, though.

Unfortunately, mp3s will not sound as good as CDs or vinyl. Fact of life. Could actually negate all the effort put into getting the best speakers.

Rich

Katans

I agree with Tpreaves and others that the OP should change from MP3s to a lossless format. Storage is cheap, so why not?

But I'm not completely convinced that a blind A/B between formats would reveal huge differences in SQ for the contemplated system. Anyone do the relevant comparisons on comparable kit?

John

dc10audio Berlin II mini monitors!!! For older little speaker David D-50! Small Sonus Faber good too but not to effiecency.

You don't get the best pair of bookshelf speakers for just $ 800. This you proberly already know, but a more accurate title to this topic would be appropriate here. Otherwise an interesting subject.