For nearfield listening: which of these towers?

They are so good you won't even think about it, at least with Acoustical Music.

If you are considering DIY single driver, there is a world of designs out there. Don't limit yourself to just the Audio Nirvana stuff before you do some research.

Today my quest took me to Guitar Center of all places, recommended by a few 'philes for my situation (near-field, desktop listening). I think I may have found a solution there: Adam Audio F5 powered monitor speakers. Of all their powered monitors, the Tannoy Reveal 802 and Adam F5 were most attractive (sound-wise) to me. Very different sounding and constructed speakers, I ended up preferring the Adam F5 in the end. I think. The Tannoy might get fatiguing, but not sure yet. I will be going back there for one more listen to compare. I hate to sound prejudiced, but I was shocked I was able to possibly find something I like in a pro sound store. And for so cheap! Now I’d like to hear the F7 as well.

Preludes are unique in the Silverline range of stuff...only one with aluminim/magnesium drivers, etc. They do sound better single wired, and are a great late night speaker...utterly worth it.

I almost pulled the trigger on those Preludes for sale. But, considering I'd also need to get an integrated amp, wires, and if the integrated does not have USB input (laptop is source), I'd also have to get a USD DAC. Too much gear, too much money. Especially if compared to this setup: laptop -> Halide USB HD DAC (small, no power cord, wires included) -> active monitors. Clean, simple, least gear. BUT, I will only do this if it sounds good. if not, I'l lhave to fall back on something like the Preludes or Ascend Sierra-1s in std 2-channel setup.

Back today to listen to active moitors again to make final decision: which one, or none.