wilson sophias to monitors

It doesn't seem unreasonable for partners to compromise on the decor in a shared living space, if both parties are contributing to decoration and upkeep of that space. "Suggestions" about changing conspicuous gear might be a red flag, but needn't be, depending on what other compromises are being made. (My GF is admirably tolerant about gear; not inappropriately, since I do the bulk of domestic labor.) Rhapsd's business, what he can live with; always mysterious, from the outside.

I recently auditioned the Dyn C1's. Getting a lot of thump out a tiny box seems to be a central design emphasis; the result may or may not engage you. Goes without saying there's a lot of options at that price point. (Also auditioned the Saphires, which sound nice, and are easy on the eye, but again, lots of options for the price [16k].)

Don't know the Duette's, but Theo's suggestion of sticking with the Wilson sound makes sense. Don't know if they can be had for 5k (pair now listed here at 7100), but maybe that's a point *she* can compromise on!

Northcreek (Lee Taylor cabinets) makes very attractive speakers that are designed for near wall in smaller spaces. I have their Eskas (see my system page); the new Big Kat looks like a lot of speaker for less than 5k (with professionally built boxes with custom veneer). Very high GFAF, I'd say.

John

I owned the Sophia 2's and the Duette's. They are both excellent speakers. The Duettes put out a very impressive low end. One thing to bear in mind is that the Duettes are rear ported and prefer positioning a few feet out into the room. Also note that the Duettes are still fairly large and heavy and with their custom stands use up almost the same space as the Sophia's but are not quite as visually dominant.

Yes, the Bella Twins are not on the High Emotion Audio site but they do make it. I would contact them. Once you've heard a set it will be hard to go back to the Wilsons...