Salk Sound Encore 3 or Totem Wind

Thanks, I know we are always looking for something to make our systems sound better. Every speaker I've owned has been a guess. I am just too far away from a dealer. 

@dpm2340 makes sense and explains why you posted here, looking for input and possibly other ideas. We get it, and it’s been even worse since the pandemic. Even if you went to an audio store, often times they don’t have your exact amp, tubes, room, or sources - so its still a bit of a guess unless you bring your gear to the dealer store and try it on each pair of speakers. Even still, usually a different room, and the room itself is part of the sound of the speaker.

I sent a note to someone I I’m aware of who partnered with Jim Salk and he has speakers I thought were tube friendly, more so than the two you selected. Awaiting a reply. If I get a reply I'll send you a DM/private message. People will nudge you to also consider keeping what you have as it might be a solid fit too.

it is an interesting concept...sometimes we want a "different" sound as all gear has it's own sound..been thinking of selling my Dali Epicon 8 speakers...great speakers, but I've had them 7-8 years, and Dali main speakers for 12 or more...no right answer, just having fun with music...

Sometimes its as important to listen to the don't than the do's. For example, as mentioned before, the Winds in your size room probably would not be the better choice. YMMV but I doubt it.  Why by the way are you considering such large speakers?  With either speaker you mention I think you'll have a problem taming the bass.

Those are just two of the speakers I have wanted to try. I have used aerial 10 and Aerial 8 and had no issues with the size or bass. Maybe it's because of the wall to wall carpeting.