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Changing to bookshelf speakers. Recommendations?

Looks like I'm moving in with my girlfriend and in the process am going to need to replace my floorstanders (Focal Chorus 836V) with bookshelf speakers. Unfortunately her cat thinks my floorstanders make a good scratching pole (ugh.....).

So I'm looking for some recommendations on bookshelf speakers in the 2K-5K range that provide enough reasonable bass in a medium room (15x15) that I won't get angry without having a subwoofer. I do listen to more rock but am not a big fan of "bright" systems nor do I listen at concert levels (but on the louder side from time to time).

My front end consists of:

- Muse Model 3 Signature Preamp
- Muse Model 160 Power Amp
- Quad 99 CDP2 CD Player (which will probably get upgraded to a muse product in the future)

As you may notice, I like Muse gear.....

Speakers I've thought about:

- Usher BE-718
- Focal Electra 1007Be
- Totem Mani 2 Signature
- Amphion Argon 2 Anniversary (or new Argon 3)

Anyway, any thoughts?
dsutfin
pdreher's avatar
pdreher
1,185 posts
 
Based upon your last post, Harbeth SHL5's should be on your short list.
4musica44107
520 posts
 
DeVore Fidelity 3XL!
ryder
1,682 posts
 
I do listen to more rock but am not a big fan of "bright" systems nor do I listen at concert levels (but on the louder side from time to time).

I will admit, I always have been intrigued with the British manufacturers mentioned (ProAc, Harbeth). The way their sound in described (good timing, fluid, etc) has tended to be how I prefer my system.

Other gear that I've owned and initially enjoyed (monitor audio, cambridge audio) just sounded way too fatiguing after awhile.

Look at Proac D Two and Harbeth SHL5. The Proac will be more dynamic with extended high-frequencies while the Harbeth will be slightly warmer, have sweeter highs and lower levels of listening fatigue. Both are revealing and have good timing. From your description it seems that the Harbeth may be a better choice for your listening preferences and priorities.
gsm18439
895 posts
 
I have a Celestion SL700 based system in my bedroom and built a system for a friend around Spica TC-50s. Both are excellent.
magnumpi205
504 posts
 
Heard the HL5s recently and was impressed as usual. Have the Compact 7s which are also great speakers.
If you are midrange oriented, you will get the midrange of much more expensive speakers with the Harbeths.
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