my Talon Khorus sounds bad

And new rock recordings sound better?

If your favorite music doesn't sound good on your system, change your system.

I beleive your problem lies with your lack of reserve power.

I have found out that my B&w n802s require a great deal of power to open up. It is entirely possible that your amp may be clipping.

Damon

Be sure to ask about crossover changes....
- Dan

I would take Talon's advice and first call them for guidance. You may have a undiagnosed problem with the speaker or it could be something as simple as room placement. I have had the Khoruses for over a year and if anything, they excel at being driven at high volumes. My system consists of an Essence Stereo Amp, Sony SCD1 SACD player, Tact RCS, and Stealth Speaker cables.

The folks at Talon are a pleasure to deal with and will back you up. My 3 year son stuck his fist into one of the Talon woofers, inverting it, and Mike, while on a visit to NY was kind enough to replace it at no charge, himself. You can't ask for better service than that. My experience has been good enough that I've just purchased the Khorus xs and am awaiting their delivery.

I purchased the Khoruses after owning Maggies (3.6) and Verity Parcifals, and after extensive listening to Revels (Salon and Studio), B&Ws (801), Dynaudios (3.3), Genesis (350se's), Audio Physic (whole line), Aerial (10T), Wilson Watt Puppies (5.1 and 6.0), Sonus Faber (Amatis), all excellent speakers. I highly recommend putting the time into making the Khorus' work for you, it will pay off.

Slaufer, this is off-topic, but I would love to hear a thumbnail comparison of all of those speakers you owned and evaluated. Strengths & weaknesses, that sort of thing. If you have the time.

--dan