Considering Towers in the $3000 range

I agree that if you can stretch to $4300, I agree the Spendor A4 would be my choice. They can be placed in small to larger rooms, they are fairly easy to drive and once broken in, are a great all-arounder that has very good bass and offers a very balanced sound. Breaking them in will take some time, but once they settle in, they can play soft yet stay dynamic. They also play nice with a variety of gear, both tube or solid state. I have a pair on order.

I appreciate all the feedback.  I knew there would be a lot of opinions and I have at least looked at every suggestion in this thread.  I have not decided, but I am leaning in one direction.  I will post when I pull the trigger on an audition and of course, my thoughts on the speakers.

Q Acoustics Concept 50 perhaps? It's right at $3000.  

@moonwatcher    Be careful regarding any online reviewer as the voice of truth. You need to do whatever it takes to research/listen and inspect any audio component you intend to purchase. 

@dayglow wrote: " Be careful regarding any online reviewer as the voice of truth. You need to do whatever it takes to research/listen and inspect any audio component you intend to purchase. "

Indeed, but other reviewers have said as much. In any event, hearing something for yourself is always key, and not buying blind on the Internet. That advice should go to the OP as well, and everyone really if at all possible. Sadly today, too many have to buy "blind" because retail audio stores have mostly gone away, not like the glory days of the 1970s. And certain direct to consumer brands have no place you can audition them (Zu, Spatial Audio, and Tekton).

Fortunately, I have an Audio Advice location relatively close-by and can audition the R700 up against others. The key is also, if you can, get a 30-day trial period and try them in your own home, in your room, and then decide.

I want to compare the R700 against the Forte IV, and some Monitor Audio. But I know if the reviewers are honest, I’d like the more neutral sounding R700 over the slightly forward Forte (which are not as forward as others in the Heritage line) and the midrange recessed Monitor Audio. I do like that light ash finish of the Monitor Audio though, but sound quality trumps looks in the long run, if you have a forgiving spouse.