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Seeking Bookshelf Recommendations

Looking for some new bookshelf speakers for a second system in a small bedroom.   The room is pretty well treated with 6 broadband absorption and 9 diffuser panels. I’m running Audio Mirror Reflection 45 mono blocks with a Canary preamp. Source will most likely be a Gustard R26 as both dac and streamer. I also have a pair of Rel t5i subs and Aperion dual firing super tweeters.  
 

Soundstaging and imaging are king for me. I want the biggest most dimensional sound I can afford.  My amp pairing is really smooth so I’m not looking for anything too warm.  I’d like something that is neutral but full in the lower mids and upper bass but also extended and airy in the treble.  My current Totem Arros do the soundstaging/imaging but are a little weak for me in the lower mids and upper bass.  Also I really value clarity and resolution as long as the magic isn’t lost of course. Basically I’m looking to have my cake and eat it too. My budget is around 3k and right now tops of my list are Fritz Carreras and Kef R3 metas. Also, Joseph Pulsars would be at the very top of my wish list but I’m trying to spend less unless it’s truly worth it.  Others that are lower on the list are Nola Boxers, Totem Signature Ones, Merlin TSM MMM, and maybe even one of the smaller Thiel floor standing speakers
 

As always I’m looking forward to everyone’s thoughts and hopefully there is at least a couple great speakers I’m missing. 

brylandgoodman
curiousjim's avatar
curiousjim
4,951 posts
 

Have given any thought to getting a pair of the new PS Audio FR5’s? 
They are $3500 and are returnable if need be.

Having said that, The JA Pulsars are much better looking and I’m sure would make you very happy, but are three times the price.

Let us know what you decide.

vthokie83
959 posts
 

+++++1

Joseph Audio Pulsars ($4,300 used, but usually don't last long), Fritz Carrera ($3,700 new), Buchardt Audio S400 MKII ($2,400 new), and Philharmonic BMR ($2,000 new)

I have had the Pulsars and BMRs in my system on extended loan from friends, and several times at shows. I own the Buchardt S400 MKIIs, and am recommending the Fritz based on reputation and having heard them several times at shows and an acquaintances home......that would be the short list if I didn't already own the Buchardts, which I will not be selling and love for the money.

If you can bump your budget up a bit more, go for the Pulsars.....they are great speakers

czarivey
5,946 posts
 

I've spent for my B&W C202 $5 at garage sale.

They're excellent bookshelf speakers that I use for PC audio!

hsounds
153 posts
 

I don’t know your budget. 
$10k is Arrtai bookshelf

$16k us Sonner bookshelf with matching stands. 
 

if these are in your budget then you are welcome. 
 

if you are in the Chicagoland area I believe Holm Audio is a Sonner dealer and can probably get you the Aertai through a distributor. Please talk to Mike Holm and not staff. 

grislybutter
3,485 posts
 

@hsounds 

I don’t know your budget

it's in the post. 3K. Are you a bot?

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