Quad 12L, PMC TB2, or Harbeth Compact 7ES-2?

Well in the Quads defense...in u want a speaker that is truly uncolored(ie. no rolled off highs,etc)...the Quads are the real deal...as one poster already mentioned...some dont like this level of sonic realism...they are very revealing of source and electronics...however...with good gear(which u have) and a quality recording...they are about as good as it gets below 2k....they also throw a larger soundstage than the above speakers(both good in their own right)...however...I wouldnt say the Harbeth is in a different league...it is an entirely DIFFERENT sound...more in the old school Brit speaker sound...very forgiving...works well with more recordings...but doesnt have the speed or dynamics of the QUads...and the QUad name is synonomous with transparency...

ALso..Von Shiekwert(?) vr-1 is a highly acclaimed monitor for under 1k...I dont have a local dealer...but many owners rave...hope this helps...you also wont be sorry with the QUads...they are an exceptional value...

SPendors work well with poorer recordings...midrange is slightly exaggerated...which adds nice body on vocals...not really designed for speed or deep bass...but a very pleasant, musical speaker....

I would have to disagree...the Quads are not a "warm sound" type of speaker(sometimes I wish they were)...they are designed for detail,speed, and transparency...and most professional reviews have reiterated these traits...if anything they are a tad bright out of the box...but break- in does improve greatly...the 3/5as are notorious for having a slightly "bloated" midrange...which in their case...adds weight and body to a very small speaker(and a very good one I might add)...