Revel or Aerial

That is one tough choice. As you're talking about buying new, it makes no sense to purchase without listening to both speakers.
I owned a pair of Revel M20s a few years ago, man those are some wonderful little speakers, and now own a pair of Aerial Model 6s. Both brands are fantastic IMO.
You probably couldn't go wrong with either speaker but a listen first seems mandatory.

I was under the impression that the M51 was on the way. If that's the case, by all means, give it a chance. If you haven't bought one yet, I agree with Ejlif's post. The importance of a good preamp can't be overstated.

Zd542,

The M51 is not on it's way, I had the opportunity to cancel the purchase. I plan on comparing the F208s to Studio 2s within the next several days. I like opinions, no matter how diverse they me be. I'm trying to hear opinions no possible was forward based on my current equipment and the fact that I want to limit how much I pay. With the sell of my current speakers the Studio 2s would cost me an additional $5300. The question is what yields the most cost effective results. It's impossible to hear every available option.

Ricred1 .... I "reluctantly" would like to make a suggestion. I am usually reluctant to make equipment recommendations, especially speakers, because opinions about what is good, bad or so-so are very subjective.

But here goes. If you are close to a dealer who sells Paradigm Signature 6 or 8 speakers, I suggest you stop by for a listen. If you like the S6 or S8 speakers, you should know there's a member selling a pair of piano black S8 (v3) speakers for a song - asking $5K. I've never seen the most recent version of S8s offered for such a low price. Even if you change your mind, the price is so low, you could flip them for little cost, maybe even make a buck or two.

I'm sure I'll regret sticking my neck out, but good luck with whatever you do.

Bruce

Bruce,

I respect your opinion and as a matter of fact reached out to a Paradigm dealer in TX but he didn't have the S8s to listen to. I was told that the S8s are more forward than Revel and that troubles me!

Rick