Best floorstanding speakers less than $500


Any thoughts on sub-$500 floorstanders? Am I better off going with bookshelves at that price point?

Amp is a tube based Onix SP3 MKII. I can get a new pair of Wharfedale Diamond 9.6's for around $425 right now. Any thoughts? I don't have any issues with going used either!
uncledavid218

Showing 2 responses by nietzschelover

Normally, I'd recommend a very efficient, or voltage-loving speaker on stands.
You always have to make trade offs at your price point. Since your amp uses negative feedback and, thus, has good damping ability, I suggest a speaker whose main fault is flabby woofers.
However, the Wharfedale Diamond 9.6's are efficent and present an easly load.
And, since they're 4-way (to help efficiency, probably), the woofer's are, I'm guessing, relatively, flabby (hey, four drivers--you get what you pay for).
So, from a technical stand point, they should, probably, work.
However, will you like the resultant sound? I have no idea.
Don't sweat it. You can get that sound by choosing the right tubes for your amp. Go new Chinese or Russian, or NOS Amperex A-frames, or, maybe NOS German/Siemens and their ilk.
You, already, have an an amp that's not warm. It's "neutral". So, it shouldn't be very hard.
For example, new, reissued Tung Sols, etc.
Ask Kevin Deal at Upscale Audio. He'll set you up right.