Downsizing from tower to bookshelf


Moving to smaller home and need thoughts on bookshelf speakers. The new dedicated audio room is 12x14 and I plan to use the same wall/floor treatments I currently have in my 14x20 room.
I don’t live near a big city to go and demo, so I’d like to narrow down at least 3 speakers I can purchase and demo in the new room. I’ll send the others back once I find a winner.

Current equipment is;

VPI Scout with Hana SL

Parasound A21

Vincent SA32 Preamp

Elac PPA2 

Dyneaudio Emit 30

My preference is neutral to slightly warm sound with heavy emphasis on holographic soundstage. Price point is maxed at $3,500.
 

I was never really in love with the Dynaudio Emit 30’s but they did provide the neutral holographic soundstage I like. The only negative with the Dynaudio is they didn’t seem very dynamic or musical.i always felt they were missing something in terms of enjoyment. Maybe stepping up a model would help but I’m open to other brand suggestions.

My initial picks are;

Harbeth P3ESR XD

Revel M126Be

Wharfedale Aura 2

Any other recommendations would be appreciated.

 

128x128vette5451

Thanks for all the great feedback and suggestions. I’ll keep the group posted on my progress and decision.

Anyone that states what you have (floorstanding to bookshelf), I always recommend a look at the Van L Speakerworks Quartet: (https://www.stereotimes.com/post/van-l-speakerworks-quartet-loudspeakers/)

Admittedly, I have not heard them, nor do I know anyone who has, but ALL the reviews of the product are sterling, and the company owner has a great reputation in the Chicago area. I spoke to him on the phone once, and he couldn't have been nicer (for what that's worth).

The price is right for you ($2,995), so it might be worth a look/listen.

I have two of the speakers mentioned above in two systems, the Proac and the Audio Note. Both are exceptional speakers and give you what you are looking for. I find the audio note for vocals, jazz, and blues is outstanding!

I will put in a plug for the ATC SCM19’s. No sibilance. Tremendous soundstage. I run SCM7’s in my bedroom on top of a dresser with rubber sandwich isolators and couldn’t be happier. All of the ATC Entry series are easy to drive- I use the original Aegir in my bedroom.