Suggestions for speakers for my setup


I am currently running a Marantz 8801 with an anthem p5 amplifier and paradigm studio reference speakers (bought these before they even had the signature line). These will be used for home theater and music listening. I remember listening to some polk speakers run from a carver amp when I was in high school that felt like someone was squeezing your chest when the bass hit. It really was startling. I'm looking for speakers that can do that without a subwoofer (I'll have a couple but I want some awesome full range speakers up front to start). I've been looking at the revel Ultima2 salon2 speakers but that is the upper limit on what I can spend without being divorced. Any suggestions?
128x128vetboy45
Agree with Phasecorrect that there's a lot more to good sound than bass and tastes/priorities change over time, although if you can afford to get the bass -- and you certainly can at this price level -- why not?

Also agree that Revel makes excellent speakers that are certainly neutral sounding and definitely worth a listen. But given what you said about brightness/sibilants I think you should at least give a speaker with a ribbon tweeter a listen as some people find them very detailed but also do a nice job avoiding any hardness or harshness that can irritate some people. I again echo my recommendation for the Acoustic Zen Crescendos as they are full range, fairly easy on the eyes, and have a refined ribbon tweeter. And there happens to be a nice used pair on AG right not for a little under $10k, although new they're still well under your $20k limit at about $16k. I'd also take a hard look at the Vandersteen 5s (although not sure of the price in their latest iteration). You're in a great price neighborhood with lots of great choices, and I'm sure you're gonna get lots of other good recommendations I didn't think of.

Hope this helps, and best of luck.
My initial comments were related to audio maturity..it takes time to develop a good ear and know what u want...outside of that human behavior is human behavior...and In not a shrink...probably could use one!...haha
Unless you have a problem with horn loaded speakers, perhaps take a look at the top of the Klipsch reference line or Heritage line. A used pair of KLF-30's (not made anymore) is also a great choice, esp for HT. Great dynamics in any of these and most are not budget busters for you. Good luck.
IMHO. High sensitivity speakers tends to be bright specially paired with SS amp. Go with Tannoy or Sonus Faber for warm easy listening.
I have both the Marantz 8801 and the Revel Ultima Salon2's. If you want a listen, feel free to contact me. I'm in MA.