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Best Full Range Speaker, 750- 1k

I am in the process of rebuilding my system, and wanted to tap the Audiogon community's opinions on the best full range speaker in the $750-$1,000 used price range. Right now, the front-runner on my list is the Meadowlark Kestrel Hot Rod. Other speakers I've heard good things about are the Thiel 1.5, PSB Stratus series, and Vandersteen's.

The associated equipment will be a Belles 150A Hot Rod amp, a Rogue 66 pre, and a Sony DV-9000ES CD/SACD/DVD player. I value musicality and an engaging sound above clinical detail, precision and transparency. I listen primarily to classical (chamber and symphonic, some choral), small scale jazz, and female vocals.

I'd appreciate all your comments on the Meadowlark's, how they compare to some of the other speakers I've mentioned, as well as any other recommendations in this price range. Thanks in advance!

Eric
ewha
capaudio
35 posts
 
The new Green Mountain Europa two way has fantastic sound and at only $ 780.00 is a great bargain. Go to [email protected] for pictures and specs.

Don Kenney
HI END AUDIO
Edina, Mn
952-929-1479
unsound
7,311 posts
 
IMHO, none of the speakers suggested are full range. The closest I can suggest (there is compromise in bass extension at high volumes) is a pair of used Thiel 3.5's.
avideo
222 posts
 
I fully agree with Unsound's opinion. I am currently using
a pair of Thiel 3.5s with all McIntosh electronics and find
the sound is just wonderful. The 3.5s do not have the deepest bass extension, but do just about everything else
very, very well. In a small to mid-size room you will have to look at speakers well into the $1500-$2000 range to get
better sound.
The Thiel 3.5s periodically come up for sale on the used market for $900-$1000 every few months. Be picky about
condition - make sure the Thiel equalizer is in good
operating condition; and check the condition of the cabinets
vary carefully. The 3.5s have a true furniture grade finish;
and if well cared for should look like new or only have a
few minor scratches.
Also, if your go with Thiel 3.5s make sure you are using
decent quality interconnects and speaker cables. The Thiels
are very revealing of low quality sources and/or cables.
unsound
7,311 posts
 
Avideo, just to clarify, the Thiel 3.5's will go down low they just won't do it loudly.
sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
For used the B&W P4, P5 or P6
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