Considering Towers in the $3000 range

@dayglow wrote: " Be careful regarding any online reviewer as the voice of truth. You need to do whatever it takes to research/listen and inspect any audio component you intend to purchase. "

Indeed, but other reviewers have said as much. In any event, hearing something for yourself is always key, and not buying blind on the Internet. That advice should go to the OP as well, and everyone really if at all possible. Sadly today, too many have to buy "blind" because retail audio stores have mostly gone away, not like the glory days of the 1970s. And certain direct to consumer brands have no place you can audition them (Zu, Spatial Audio, and Tekton).

Fortunately, I have an Audio Advice location relatively close-by and can audition the R700 up against others. The key is also, if you can, get a 30-day trial period and try them in your own home, in your room, and then decide.

I want to compare the R700 against the Forte IV, and some Monitor Audio. But I know if the reviewers are honest, I’d like the more neutral sounding R700 over the slightly forward Forte (which are not as forward as others in the Heritage line) and the midrange recessed Monitor Audio. I do like that light ash finish of the Monitor Audio though, but sound quality trumps looks in the long run, if you have a forgiving spouse.

Yes, the the truth is how it sounds to me.  Research, reviews and this forum is just a starting place to start with an audition that I perceive has the best chance of being a keeper.  Of course, nothing can beat an in home audition to see how it works in your room with your electronics.

@somebike how big is your room? We are all making recommendations based on you wanting floorstanders, but then, some audiophiles of late say you can get more bang for your buck (better imaging if that is important to you) by going with bookshelf speakers and 1 or 2 subwoofers strategically located.  Of course that depends on how big the room is and how dynamic and how loud any bookies would play for you.  Good luck! 

I just did a bit more research on your Cary Audio setup and most likely the Polk R700 might not be the best match. Most reviewers have recommended higher wattage amps for those. They just aren't very efficient. So in the end while you have an excellent front end, you might do better with some more efficient speakers, especially for your large room. Good luck in your search.

@moonwatcher The room is 22 x 12 x 9.  For what it's worth, my speakers in my secondary system have a sensitivity rating of 87 dB and I recently brought them to main listening room and the amp can drive it with plenty of volume to spare.