Seeking speakers under $3K for 10x12 ft room and driven by 20wpc tube amp


I currently have a pair of Apogee Acoustics Centaur Minors driven by a new Black Ice integrated tube amp. The small but dedicated listening room means I’m doing near-field listening with me and the speakers forming a 6’ triangle. As you might expect, these speakers have terrific midrange but at 85dB sensitivity they are a bit difficult to drive and feel limited in dynamics. The room is acoustically treated.


I almost exclusively listen to small combo acoustic jazz and vocals and I’m seeking recommendations for something easier to drive and more dynamic that provides a more “palpable presence” of the musicians when played at louder levels. Prefer small floorstanders for aesthetics but not essential and preferably a brand where I might have a chance to audition them (I’m in SoCal). Also open to used (e.g. something like Wilson Cubs). TIA!

p.s. thanks for the Sonus faber suggestion.

ristretto

Zu DWX will most likely give you the scale and dynamics you are looking for

I think the impedance is more significant than the efficiency. If you plan to continue using a tube amp. 

Another thumbs up for Omega monitors.  I have the Super7 Mk II's and am getting great results with a 4wpc SET amp.  They are in a much larger room than yours and I am shocked at what spl I can achieve with this system.  I just added a pair of REL T/X5's.  I am amazed with the results.  Huge sound stage, dynamic, great detail yet smooth.  I can listen all day.  This system, including stands, could come in under your budget.

My primary system is a bit jealous right now.

Fritz should work at 8 ohm and 88 db should be easy to drive. I'd love to recommend the Philharmonic BMR, but at 4ohm and 87 db it might not be the best fit....but it's a surprisingly great speaker for $2,200