Seeking Bookshelf Recommendations

I used to have the KEF LS50 Meta + KEF KC62 sub in my small office, 12x11x9 (+ 4 extra feet in closet). That was very good. My Benchmark AHB2 was more than enough to drive them. I used a lot of other amps, and they all were good.

A year ago, I picked up the Magnepan LRS+ to try. They cost $1000 but need a lot of power. I have tried amps from the used $1000 PeachTree GAN400 (good) to the $16k CODA #16 (great).  

The LRS+ are 3 feet from the from wall and I am 8 feet away. The sound is huge, a wall of sound. There is depth to the sound because the panel radiates the sound in both directions.

I needed spend $300 to improve the sound with Magna Risers (feet). My minor complaint about the LRS+ is the details could be improved. There is a $300 cross over upgrade that is supposed to improve the minor issue I have with them. I am waiting on feedback from someone who got the cross over. I may get it if it is easy to install, otherwise, it is not a deal breaker. The LRS+ do too many good things.

I also feel it is easy to place the LRS+ in my room, the KEF LS50 Meta was also easy to place.

lots of choices here >>> speakerchoices.com

My list in the price range, including used would be Revel, Revival, Mofi and Sonner 

I’d have a look at Totem. They have several bookshelf speakers. I have a pair of Mites and a matching mini sub. They are wonderfully punchy and natural… beautifully crafted. Mine are cherry they are simply stunning and do great off center. Perfect for a spall bedroom.

Personally I’d wait for a nice used pair of the original Pulsars, and you’re obviously aware of why.  That said, I can’t see going wrong with the Fritz, Totem, or Ref 3a speakers given what you’re looking for and would add the Usher Dancer Mini X as another option well worth a look.  The Boxers might be a little on the warm side and the KEFs and Thiels would probably be a tough load for your amp.  Merlin and Thiel are obviously (and very sadly) out of business, and as the owner of speakers from a defunct manufacturer I can tell you it’s a precarious existence.  Living in constant fear of blowing a driver or some other mishap is not something I’d recommend especially when there are excellent alternatives like those above from companies that are still in business.  Hope this helps, and best of luck.

I was also going to suggest the Joseph Audio Pulsars - wonderfully musical, and they go down to about 40 Hz so they reproduce acoustic bass well.

I bought some used ones a few years ago at about 35% of list price (so 65% off).