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speaker upgrade fever

I'm considering a speaker upgrade to compliment my Aesthetix Mimas integrated. Currently, I've got KEF Ref 1 monitors paired with (2) REL S/3 subs. Must stay away from bright, analytical and clinical presentation. Room size 12'x19'. Music is jazz, acoustic Americana, Chamber, symphonic etc. 

Looking at the ProAc K1, Triangle Duetto and the DeVore o/baby. Also, a huge departure, Vandersteen Treo CT, floor standers. I understand Vandersteen pairs well with the Mimas.

Always open to suggestions, happy to buy quality used and demo.

Budget, ~$8-$11K

larseand
rubicon15
118 posts
 

Consider auditing the DeVore 0/93’s. They are just slightly above your budget. I’ve heard the 0/baby and 0/96 but not the 0/93. It’s hard to find a local pair to audition. Devore has a nice sound but I’m not quite sure about the cabinet. Looks like a Baltic birch with veneer and a nice finish. Is it just lipstick on a pig that should cost far less? Again, just another brand to research. 

blackbag20
484 posts
 

You might try Ascend  or Tyler acoustic ... I believe both offer trials and well-built offerings.  

I have Revel and will probably never part with ... 

rsmith73
35 posts
 

+1@mazian 

SF are very musical

zlone
749 posts
 

Following with interest as I have KEF Reference 1’s myself and am thinking about upgrades. Our music tastes align as well. I honestly think that they will be tough to beat. 
 

Just to clarify, reading your post, I don’t think you are saying that the KEF’s are bright, only that you want to stay away from bright speakers to replace them. Am I correct?

larseand OP
67 posts
 

Zlone, you are spot on! I'm looking to move up the chain and want to stay away the bright side... I actually don't think the KEF is overly bright.

Off topic, I owned a pair of Focal electra 1028be floor standers, even with the beryllium tweeters, it was too bright for me. I know that Focal has that reputation, but I was still surprised. This the downside of being 4-5 hours away from an old fashioned audio shop and not being able to A/B anything before pulling the trigger...

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