Next level standmount speaker options


I have a pair of Kef R3s that are with a Kinki Studio EX-M1 and Bluesound node for streaming/DAC duties. Planning to get the Kinki DAC or possibly a higher end Denafrips or Lampizator piece soon, as well.

However, I’m looking for speakers that have more clarity but can also play a bit forward. Let’s say my budget is upwards of $5-6k max. Beyond that, I think I’d be looking at separates or a better integrated to catch up with the better speakers but I’m very happy with the EX-M1.

Room is 12’ x 10’, 8’ ceiling, fairly well damped. Speakers are about 6’ apart and I listen around 8-9’ away. It’s a nice setup, just looking for even more clarity, precision, and same or more bottom end without venturing into floorstanders. Not a fan of tipped up treble either.

Any serious suggestions are appreciated, thanks!

cd45123

Dynaudio is an option worth auditioning .I listened to both the Heritage Special and Contour 20i. I went with the 20i as they sounded a bit more dynamic and full to my ears. Both had nice transparency, gorgeous midrange, and tight, tuneful bottom end. My room and listening setup is similar to yours.

Wilson Benesch Precision 1.0.  These are going to deliver detail, musicality and are pretty neutral.  They are not warm, but are warmer than your Kef's and will give a smoother and more natural sound

I would definitely suggest Dynaudio.  Particularly the Heritage Special which really is a great speaker.  

Tonally similar to your Kef's, you could look at the Vivid Kaya S12.  Aesthetically, not for everyone but just elite sound. 

Perlisten S4b or S5m.  These are incredible speakers and are way more neutral than you would expect from a speaker with a Beryllium tweeter.  They have the best off-axis performance I have ever heard in a speaker.

Totally different style of speaker and delviers a different listening experience as it is far more immersive, but the Raidho X1/XT1 is an incredible speaker. Ribbons behave differently and use the room to create the image but they are stunningly good.  

The Joseph Audio Pulsar - the new Graphene's are a bit pricey but these are great speakers.  A used pair of Pulsar's would be amazing.  

Others in the used market, a pair of Wilson Benesch ARCs or Wilson Benesch Vertexes would be an incredible value and would deliver on your needs.  

Those are the ones I would look at.  There are a lot of other stand-mounts that are awesome but may be tilted a bit brighter.  The Kef Reference 1, Focal Kanta and Sopra 1, etc... 

Full disclosure, I am a dealer and I carry Wilson Benesh, Vivid, Perlisten, Raidho and Focal.  I have no relationship with Dynaudio, Kef or Joseph Audio.  

What the heck, how do you pm the op?  I can only get the”send message” option for anyone other than the op.  What am I missing?

 

Op, pm me!