Speakers that sound like Thiels on steroids.


I am carefully searching for replacements for my beloved Thiel CS2.3's. Only 2 problems I have with these speakers currently are that they begin to compress when peak spls rise above 108db and I would prefer about another 10hz in bass extension. My goals are transparency (can never have enough), speed (rim shots to blink for), (visceral) dynamics, focus and bass extension down to at least 27hz, coherency, top-end extension and air, and the ability to play to 110-115db without compression. Priorities are listed in order so I'll compromise on the spl first. Budget is up to 20k new or used. Best candidates I've heard so far are Wilson Watt Puppy's 7 for about 22k new. The WP's have the bass extension and the ability to play loudly with clarity but I prefer my Thiels' midrange, soundstage and focus. Overall the WP's are fine but they sound like a rich man's Thiel and for 22k I expected them to kick dirt all over my speakers (they don't). Other candidates I have not heard and am interested in are Thiel CS3.6 (or their replacements, whenever they come out) and Piega C10/C8 ltd. Speakers I have auditioned and am not interested in are B&W Sig 800's or anything else made by B&W, JMLabs Utopias and Mezzo Utopias, Revel Salons and Studios, Maggies, Proacs, Martin Logans, Thiel CS6 and CS7.2.

All suggestions are appreciated.
jazzdude
You should add the InnerSound Eros Mk-II or Mk-III versions to your list. They play louder than the Martin Logans and are more coherent and efficient. They have pristine detailes highs, extended and articulate bass, and better attack and transient response than most speakers I have heard. Definitely in your price range.
What is it you don't like from the bigger Thiels..?
I have had Revel Studios for two years but recently sold them (yes, really..)..I now have a pair of Thiel CS6.
The Studios are/were great speakers, but somehow I enjoy music more with the Thiels..?!?
Seems pretty obvious that bigger Thiels would be the first place to start. You could easily fit the top of the line 7.2's into your budget. Rumour has it that Jim Thiel might be working on a "statement" speaker. I have no idea if and when it will appear or what it will cost.
I have 3.6's with MIT Oracle V3 speaker cable and they are outstanding together - these cables take everything the Thiels do well and kick em up a notch - a big notch. More bass, smooth silky highs and the biggest difference - a more fleshed out midrange.
I think you would be very happy with Wilson Benesch Chimeras or perhaps a used pair if Wilson Benesch Bishops. To my ears they are superior to any of the Thiels that I have heard.