Not Enough Options for Auditioning Speakers


am in the market for a great two channel music system. They will be set up in a dedicated listening room that is 12'x17'x9'. The room is carpeted but not treated.

My budget is around $15k-$20k for speakers, wires, amp+preamp (or integrated).

I prefer towers as I like the full range and have had bad luck with integrating a sub. I started my search with B&W 805's and Sonus Faber Olympica I's (which are still on my short list)

My problem is that most of the dealers in my area do not carry very many brands, so it is hard to compare. I cannot even find one that carries the KEF reference.

I am leaning right now to the Sonus Faber Olympica III's but also really like the B&W 803 D3. I wish I could hear them side by side. The dealer with the SF's is great and has let me do home testing with several speakers and he is recommending the Olympica's.

I read a lot online about auditioning several different speakers but cannot find any place in central Florida that has most of the lines they are suggesting. I know if I pick the SF Olympica's I will be very happy, but I have not even heard the III's! I am just a little frustrated that the consistent advice is to listen to a lot of others, but I can't.

Am I the only one with this problem?

Thanks!
-Mobius
mobiusmu

Showing 4 responses by gdnrbob

You are probably going to have to go to S. Florida or Atlanta to find shops with more brands to audition. Can you take a few days off? It will not only be fun, but you will learn a lot about what you like.
Bob
@mobius,
I would take 333jeffrey up on his offer. There is nothing like auditioning in someone's home. You'll get to see his setup and get some ideas on what you like sound and equipment-wise.
I was lucky to have been in NYC in the '80s and got to visit many dealers.
I got to see those that shared my interest, those who only wanted a quick sale, and those who thought their recommendations were the final answer.
If you do get to visit, give them an advanced warning that you are coming and would like to audition. The good ones will accommodate you and let you listen to your hearts' desire. 
So, what did I eventually decide upon?
Well, it took 30+ years, but I finally got my Vandersteen Treo's with subs and a pair of Atma-Sphere amps and MP-3 preamp. I use the Bluesound Node with an Ayre Codex to stream music from Spotify. I haven't used my extensive CD collection since I went digital-there is so much out there, that I don't need to listen to them anymore.
Practically all my equipment is used, most bought here on Audiogon.
I have to say this is a great place to meet fellow audionuts.
Feel free to PM me.
Bob
@actolexI
I bought my speakers and amps from Audiogon members who not only allowed me to pick up the items, but allowed me to listen to them before I  bought.
There are a lot of generous people out there.
Like anything, it pays to be cautious. PM through Agon, talk to potential buyers on the phone beforehand, have a friend with you - should you need some moral support, and check feedback/references.
I never thought I would allow strangers in my house, but I now feel comfortable, as audiophiles have better things to do than steal or do you harm.
B
+1 for Johnny.
He won't try to sell you something.
-Only give you good advice.
For free.
B