I believe the best open baffle experience is a single full-range driver accompanied by a superior active sub woofer unit. This provides the best of all worlds: a cohesive sound for the majority of the musical content, and a proper power/driver size for the really low frequencies. It's the right tool for each job, and provides the greatest flexibility in choosing the amplification scheme you prefer.
It's not enough to eliminate the sonic horrors of the box - you must also eliminate the problems introduced by multiple drivers and crossover networks. My setup includes Voxativ full-range drivers and a 300W REL sub that reaches below the range of human hearing. I've used this with everything from low-watt 300B SET amps and modest power EL34 amps, as well as higher power solid state amps. Sound quality is extraordinarily clear, transparent, open and realistic. Result is an engaging listening experience.
Open Baffle Experience
Much has been said about open baffles, including an epic website by the late, great Dr. Linkwitz but I've only heard them really once, playing absolutely garbage music (thanks Pure Audio!) at a hotel.
I'm talking here about dynamic drivers in single baffles without enclosures, not ESLs or Magneplanar type systems.
I'm curious who has had them, and who kept them or went back to "conventional" boxes?
I'm not really looking to buy speakers, but I did start thinking about this because of a kit over at Madisound made with high quality drivers.