2. speakers
  3. 1199215289

Top 5 Entry-level audiophile speakers $1500-2000?

Newbie looking to get some decent stereo speakers less than 2k. Prefer recommendations for speakers that are available to audition locally in DC area. Initially would be stereo, w/ upgrade to 5.1 at later date. First priority is music, then movies.

Have in mind: paradigm studio 60, 100, b+w, dynaudio, Dali brands, etc. Prefer something not too harsh on the ears. Need to sound good at low to medium volumes. I have a smallish room and do not tolerate extremely loud playing. Anyone could please shed some light on the best quality speakers in this price range I should look at. I would appreciate it, as I am very confused with the ammount of choice. Would be paring it with SACD player in the future.


Best
Aqua
aquablue2
pdreher's avatar
pdreher
1,234 posts
 
Even though I'm a BIG fan & loyal owner of Dynaudio speakers, low volume listening is not their strong suit. I'd recommend looking for some high efficiency speakers that can easily be driven by a moderately powered tube integrated amp.

Jond's advice is probably sound... Spendor, Proac & Audio Note are all very well respected speaker manufacturers... throw Harbeth into that list as well.

Note: You will be able to get much more bang for your buck if you can find what you want used on Audiogon... get a $3 or $4K speaker for less than $2K.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
Being that you are in the DC area, the Deja Vu recommendation sounds solid given their speaker lineup, don't know where you could audition the Harbeths which are also excellent. The Vandersteen 2Ces are probably the best long-term recommendation for a "full-range" floor stander in that price range (a used pair of Acoustic Zen Adagios would also be on my list at that price range), there is a Vandersteen dealer just north of DC on Conneticutt Ave whose name I can't remember. I agree the Dynaudio needs to be "opened up" to sound their best (there is a dealer in Bethesda). If I was looking for bookshelf speakers all the one's mentioned ProAc, Spendor, AudioNote, Harbeths, are excellent; but I would go with the smaller Merlins. I think you now have a list of excellent speakers to consider - they are all good in their own way and can't go wrong with any of them IMHO.
reubent
7,090 posts
 
Aqua,

Please give us a bit more information. What is the size of the intended room? Will you be able to place the speakers out from the wall a considerable distance, or will they need to be close to the wall behind them? Would you prefer floor standing speakers or stand mounted monitors? Lastly, will it be a single source system (SACD/CD player) or will you have multiple source components, and what amp do you intend to use (or will you choose it after choosing speakers)?

So far you've received some great advice, but a little clarification will insure the advice is appropriate for your specific needs.

Enjoy,

TIC
cleaneduphippy
323 posts
 
Echo using Deja Vu, probably the best dealer in the DC area. btw, Sound Image on Rt 50 in Arlington now carries Harbeth.
jalanc42069's avatar
jalanc42069
131 posts
 
You did not mention the amplifier to be used, i guess that's good, you can find speakers you like and then choose an amp that works with it.
JM Lab Cobalt 806S are excellent, now discontinued, they are going for $600. new.
used Harbeth 7ES2s
monitors/sub
More details please.
Regards, Alan
More to discover