I ran a pair of Acoustat Model IIIs, biamped to transmission line subs, for quite a while. Had to downsize, do to a low WAF (lost the house/divorce). Stayed with panels (Maggies), for years. Now; I own a pair of Clayton Shaw’s earlier design. If you enjoyed your Acoustats: you’ll probably love any one of Spatial Audio Lab’s newer builds. Especially, those with an AMT. Very easy to drive, open, airy, nice bite (when it’s right). https://www.spatialaudio.us/xseries/x5
Pondering a change after 30 odd years...
After 30 years I think it's time to move on. I have a set of Acoustat 1+1s that I've owned since new, paired with an RHLabs passive sub. It's been a great combination and still sounds pretty nice but it's all long in the tooth. Sooner or later a panel will quit then I'm dead in the water. I love the soundstage with it's "fullsized" presentation even if it's a PITA to get them dialed in just so. Maybe I'm just getting restless! I've heard many "box" speakers but damn no matter the price point it seems I can hear the "box". Granted I haven't listened to some of the big $$ stuff like Wilson but that's way outside my budget anyways. LOL! I'm wondering how some of the smaller "monitors" on stands sound? One thing I'm thinking I'd miss is the vertical part of my large soundstage. I've read about the Golden Ear line which get decent reviews. Or should I just stick with a panel of some sort, like Maggies? I've about 110 watts/side of tube power to work with. As for budget, I'm thinking somewhere in the $5-7.5K range. I'm listening to a lot of jazz these days with a dash of classical. But I'd hate to think my old rock vinyl wouldn't be welcome anymore. I know this is all pretty vague but hoping to get a nice discussion with things to think about versus "buy this" sorts of recommendations. AdThanksVance!