Monitor with a full range sound?

I own, and love the Revel M20s. While their extension is quite amazing, they require a sub (for me that is). They, also, require, like all monitors, killer stands, to sound their best. The stands that come with the M20s are horrible. (but then, again, the stands that come with the 805s, are equally poor) I use the Sistrum Mini Monitor support system. While pricey, it cannot be beat, for taking your monitor to places where no other stands can. My review is in the archives.

Disclaimer: I am a Talon Audio dealer.

Tcpip...You didn't mention your budget, but I highly recommend you add the Talon Khite-C to your short list. You won't believe the BIG sound that comes from these small speakers. They are FLAT to 35Hz and can produce SPL that is incredible given their size. As mentioned above, the Totem Mani-2 is also a very good monitor that produces a big sound and decent SPL.

Regards...Mike - Father & Son Audio

I have heard, though not firsthand, the Avalon Monitor (no longer in prod) is quite good. Sweet mids and satisfying, though not exactly visceral bass. Ditto on the nod to the 3a's above. I have found my Proac Response 1sc's to be an excellent compromise between tonally coherent lower octaves and the palpable magic of the midband. If you want full-range, however, clear the room for a floorstander and get out your checkbook.

Although I personally haven't heard all the other speakers mentioned, I bought and absolutely love the Totem mani-2s. I needed bass from a small monitor because of my small listening room - 15x12. They fit the bill just right and they will bring out the best of any upgrade you put in front of them. Most likely not the most uncolored speaker, but they have soul baby yeh! They rank class B full range in Stereophile.

Hello Tcpip,

I recently did an in home demo of the Jean Marie Reynaud Trentes and I've never heard a monitor speaker go so low with such presence and authority. I've owned the Revel M-20 and currently own the Dynaudio 1.3MkII and the Trentes put them both to shame with their low-end extension. If I were able to I would buy the Trentes right now, unfortunately, I have to wait a while. They also throw up a very impressive soundstage and are not that difficult to drive. If you have an opportunity, find a dealer and have an in home demo and see if you get the same results in your own system. Happy hunting........John