Speaker help under $2,500

I would suggest an in-home audition of Ohm Walsh 1000s.  If your room is not too large for them, they might be a good choice.

You asked about the Sonus Faber Venere 2.5s. I auditioned them a couple of times and was tempted to get them. They have a very seductive sound that works on a wide range of material. They brought me into a zen-like state playing solo lute and a Chet Baker jazz album. They have that SF "magic."

I ultimately went for the Maggie 1.7s, but the Veneres brought a strong emotional connection to the music, and really, that's what it's all about. I personally found the upper bass (around 70-100 Hz) to be a bit too voluptuous on some material.

The Stereophile review is pretty favorable (http://www.stereophile.com/content/sonus-faber-venere-25-loudspeaker#cyPiXZtsy3iyTvJp.97) but both the reviewer and the measurements noticed this hump (http://www.stereophile.com/content/sonus-faber-venere-25-loudspeaker-measurements#zf0Zb65PaheJ0O5Q.9...). Atkinson figures the two woofers' overlap causes this.

Last week I listened to the newer Sonus Fabers from the Venere's to the Olympias.I used to love that line, but when I compared them to the Vandersteens I felt that the Vandy's were much clearer and more accurate.  The sound stage was wider and deeper to my ear.  The SF were very romantic, but I was able to connect better with the Vandy 2's.  If you can get a pair or 3 sigs, then go for it as I'm sure you'll be very happy.  good luck.

Thank you so much.

Eddy, Have you figured out a short list for listening yet?