I have heard a pair of Focal 706v at a friends home and frankly, I was stunned at what I was hearing. They were powered by a Cambridge Audio integrated and an Oppo player. Nothing fancy. The first word that comes to mind is dynamic, the kind of authority that normally comes with a much higher price tag. They are only about $600- new, and are very efficient, although I don't know the exact sensitivity. The presentation is a bit forward so if you are looking for something a bit laid back these probably aren't going to be for you. At any rate this is a pair of speakers that, in my opinion, plays in a neighborhood of much more expensive bookshelves. Good luck in your quest and let us know what you finally decide on.
