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Bookshelf speakers - Paradigm, KEF, Totem

Hi All, 

Long time lurker, first time poster. Recently I downsized and had to give up my massive floor standers and magnepans... so now I am in the market for a smaller second system with a half decent pair of bookshelf speakers. Room is about 12' x 12' and I have demo'd a few pairs but haven't fell in love with anything yet so was hoping to get some insight. Budget is under 5K ideally. I listen to mostly classic rock, jazz, and some classical/instrumental. Currently running a bluesound node, into a denafrips ares, Primaluna evo 400 integrad. I've just demo'd the totem signature 1's, B&W 705 s2, KEF LS50 metas, KEF R3's and a couple Klipsch hertiage speakers. Right now I am leaning towards the KEF R3's because I am not planning on running a sub, and they seemed the most pleasant to my ears, at least in the short demo period on all McIntosh gear... One of the sales rep's highly recommended the Paradigm founder 40b as an alternative, but wouldn't be able to audition them for at least a month (but would be significantly cheaper). Wondering if anyone had any fantastic suggestions or have tried the Paradigm speakers. Any input is greatly appreciated. 


Cheers!

hardjubejube
jimmy2615
407 posts
 

I really enjoy my Harbeth M30s, also have Primaluna equipment and similar listening tastes. You can usually pick up a decent used pair of 30.2s for under $5k, definitely 30.1s. Some speakers do not respond well at lower listening levels, something to consider in your auditioning. The Harbeths are great at lower levels. These speakers are really great with jazz. Rock is not their forte but not bad in any way. Why? Jazz is usually recorded unamplified in a live venue. Rock is not. The Harbeths excel at reproducing acoustic material, so if you like that sort of music the Harbeths (spendor are nice too) are very good.  They do need to be placed away from walls though to get the best out of them, something else to consider.  For your smallish room you might even want to look at the smaller P3s.  

twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,313 posts
 

You should really have one of the models of Fritz speakers on your shortlist.

deadhead1000's avatar
deadhead1000
705 posts
 

I have owned KEF and Totems, both are very good for the music you listen too. I currently own Harbeth I love them but they are not Rocknroll speakers. Jimmy is correct on those. I’d suggest trying the larger bookshelf Totems if you can. 

soix
8,634 posts
 

There’s a nice pair of Joseph Audio Pulsars here now for only $3625 in the stunning Sapele finish.  You won’t do better than this — hop on them before they go because they won’t last long.  If they don’t work out you can sell them for little or no loss.  Best of luck. 

hardjubejube OP
1 posts
 

Thanks everyone for your reply’s! Looks like my short list just expanded. I’m going to be spending some time at my dealers until I find something perfect. Thanks again 

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