$20K to spend on speakers…. . wait! There’s a catch!

I would buy a collectible horn based loudspeaker used for 20k enjoy it and if I felt the need for change flip it for 25k

This is easy - never spend $20k on any equipment unless you are absolutely sure that that is what you want. Unless you print the money or have others do it for you. There are a number of people like that, by the way, they collect money without earning it.
$20k buy great used speakers, it doesn't buy great new speakers, as far as I know, so I would proceed with used after auditioning them. If that is impossible I would do my best to make impossible possible. If it fails - to hell with those speakers, there are others, not a big problem. They are just boxes with parts in them, nothing vital.

I would think that if I had $20k to drop on speakers, I also have enough money to travel to listen to the used speakers.

I bought my speakers unheard. I didn’t need to listen as the manufacturer is trusted by the likes of Gilmour, Sting and Knopfler. I also had owned smaller versions of the same manufacturers speakers for years. Funnily enough the manufacturer makes speakers that all sound alike from small to enormous - perhaps the ONLY manufacturer to do so. The only major difference between models being dynamic range (max clean SPL) and bass extension.

My experience begs the question - why is choosing a speaker from the majority of manufacturers such a crap shoot (even when sticking with the same manufacturer, their models differ wildly in sound)?

I also bought my speakers unheard. It was something I thought I would never do. I bought a new pair of Martin Logan Summit X loudspeakers from an authorized dealer. They were a close-out as the new models were  coming. Price? $8,968.00, including tax and shipping. These speakers were selling for $15,000 retail a year earlier. I bought them based on professional reviews and customer reviews. So they didn't cost $20,000 but sound great in my listening room.

@Johnk > I would buy a collectible horn based loudspeaker used for 20k

Blindjim > which ones are these? The new pr., or the used pr?
= = = =

@Inna > $20k buy great used speakers, it doesn't buy great new speakers, … so I would proceed with used after auditioning them
… If it fails - to hell with those speakers, there are others, not a big problem.

Blindjim > you always make good sense. Thanks much.

However no auditioning is or will be possible. If any were possible it would be in a completely dissimilar room with unknown electrics.

Hence the scenario.

I’ll take it your inference is roll the dice on the greater valued or higher priced used speakers instead.

BTW… if you are stepping up from a $7K MSRP pair to $26K new, pair, the perception is your position has been improved substantially at least, if not perfected.


@kgturner > I would think that if I had $20k to drop on speakers, I also have enough money to travel to listen to the used speakers.

Blindjim > thanks man.
yeah. I agree. BUT traveling as was said, ain’t part of this scenario.

Say someone is in a wheel chair, or on dialysis or the like. Or has a fear of flying. Etc. whatever. They can’t get there in person.


@shadorne

many thanks as usual. As for moving up in a brand model line up, you would certainly think as you said, only the basics of more would be in play at each step up the ladder.

Alas… this is not one of the proposed avenues outlined above.

I only once bought speakers without hearing them - preferably in my own space. That one time was from a manufacturer with a liberal (3 month) return policy.

I would purchase them unheard and then not listen to them (knowingly assuming that I made the correct choice).

So...

#1 with a catch.

DeKay

 Then follow your audiophile instinct and make a choice.
I think, you are leading yourself into a permanent trap. You cannot have those speakers, they are there and you are here - no connection.

Jim,

A. I'd be grateful and thankful I had 20K to spend on speakers. I feel that way for the 3K speaker pair I currently own.

B. Since they are different speakers, by default, one will / has to be a 'better' fit for your room, amplifier, and cabling. I would choose that one, whether it is new or used or heard / unheard.

C. You don't mention aesthetics. Maybe a factor, maybe not???

D. You don't mention your exit strategy. For me that would be the 'catch.'

E. Despite all our prognosticating, the future is an unknown. That's the second and more important 'catch.' : )

With 20K you can afford a bit of a loss.  Buy the used, and if you don't like them, sell them on.  You're out, what?, 1K for an extended home audition.  Compare that to what happens, cost-wise, if you don't like the new ones.

I have found speakers for you. Get them and send me a bottle of single malt later.

https://www.audiogon.com/listings/full-range-reference-speakers-2017-11-09-speakers

Audio Research uses 2 brands of speakers for listening tests of their gear: Maggies & Sonus Faber Aida.

I think the new big Maggies may cost $30k and the Aida costs $25, so I'd either get the next cheapest Sonus Faber or the Maggies 20's depending on the size/shape of the listening room, the type of music, WAF, and/or just flip a coin.

He doesn’t want panels and he won’t like Sonus.
Here is a pair of speakers for audiophiles on a budget with interest in tube amplification. Add Allnic or VAC electronics with right cables and be happy.
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/full-range-world-class-beautiful-condition-2017-11-02-speakers

Well, under these extremely narrow set of variables, I'd have to say go with speakers that rarely offend anyone and that get consistently positive reviews.  Agree with Shadorne that if you love a particular house sound it makes a whole lotta sense to just move up the line.  That aside and in that price range, the likes of Joseph Audio, ProAc, and Usher seem to be able to shoot right down the middle of the fairway and never hit the rough.

I would give Vu at Deja Vu Audio the $20K and ask him to build me a pair of custom horn speakers with vintage drivers.

Randy, New Aida is projected to list at Euro 82.000

@inna > I think, you are leading yourself into a permanent trap.   they are there and you are here - no connection.

Blindjim > you may well be right. I appreciate it. Thanks.
However, this is a hypothetical scenario. A ‘what would you do’ sort of poll.

Its no easy task to get the speakers you desire into your house using your gear, to audition them util they are well run in and then, make a decision.

There are way too many variables and obstacles on that road. Often, the Road Closed signs are put up making it impossible.

I get it better that we will tend to follow our instincts aided with the input from others and wind up making as good a guess as one can.

The issue, is the amount of money, more than anything. Its not a thing if the speakers are $200. $2000. Maybe $5000.

$20K is a chunk that gets people’s attention, usually and why I used that figure, and for a couple reasons. ;-).


@david_ten > D. You don't mention your exit strategy. For me that would be the 'catch.'


Blindjim > thanks Dave… really.
“Be grateful I could throw that kind of dough at speakers.”
Unquestionably.

Looks and area…
You’ve seen the new pr when you heard them on entry level or dissimilar gear. And you’ve seen pics of the used pr. In the Audiogon ad likely spoken with the seller a bit too. So that’s a non issue.
I figure if one is about to pitch 20 large at something, they’re probably OK with the Esthetics and fit to the room right off. No prob.

It’s the ‘exit strategy” I’m not getting. Huh?


@twoleftears > Buy the used, and if you don't like them, sell them on. You're out, what?, 1K for an extended home audition. Compare that to what happens, cost-wise, if you don't like the new ones.

Blindjim > wow. I sure missed thinking about that idea. THANKS.

The sole caveat is the thing that both pr are not uber popular. A more eclectic sort of choice. GamuT, Rogers, Sanders, ESP, etc. not Foacl, Sonus Faber, BW, ML, etc.

Still in all, a very good strategy.

Inna> I have found speakers for you. Get them and send me a bottle of single…

Blindjim > the 7’s? or Gershwins?
The 7s are a tad tall at 69 inches.

The Black swans are doable but due to this proposition, I’d have to spend the balance on other speakers… sub?

Nice pick. I’m guessing you’ve heard Lancias.


@randy-11 > good call. Tanks.

Blindjim > Not a huge panel fan at all. Always impressed with their near tangible imaging though.
As for SF, only the older Cremona’s slightly got me. Their esthetic however is killer.

I’ve heard the SF strats. Nice. But I’ll pass. Again. Lovely wood work.


Inna > utopia? Whoa.


Blindjim > You like ‘em tall, huh? Lol
I may have to rethink a few things given these options of yours and some others input here. Really.

My focus apparently has been narrowed greatly to size and designs.

Alnic and VAC remain on the close in radar. Although, Bermister, PSA BHK, ypsalong, T+A, Gryphon are in the cross hairs too. Depending on the speaker I could go half and half power train, or all tubes. Depending.

Thanks for opening my eyes more. This is a very good thing and why I put up these seemingly inane threads. I sure don’t know it all. I just think I do. Lol
Oh, and I now have a 40 ft. aluminum and steel ramp so access and egress is a breeze. When I move, I’ll have to take this baby with me. That will not be a breeze however.

I've done it twice!
First time I upgraded from SF Amati's in violin red  to SF Strad's in graphite as I knew that I could not go wrong with SF @ a great price from a critic.
The second time was with a little known company (Voce audio) & man was this the real deal & I sold my Strad's!!!!
Go figure?

@blindjim

It’s the ‘exit strategy” I’m not getting

20K may or may not be significant to you. I don’t know.

For me, I find it wise to think downstream and long term.

What happens if life throws a curve ball and you need to move the speakers, financially speaking?

Or your system priorities change and the speaker isn’t a good fit?

Or you just feel like something different?

Knowing or being comfortable with or ’projecting' the potential impact of a current audio component decision, into the future, is something I consider.

Some are more present focused, others more future focused. I don’t know where you are on that ’spectrum.’

Your post is about an 'entry strategy’ (approach) which is why I pointed to an ’exit strategy’ (a departure, if you may).

Paladin > … The second time was with a little known company (Voce audio) & man was this the real deal & I sold my Strad's!!!!
Go figure?

Blindjim > yep. I’m fast coming to a wider perspective on getting the most out of an investment. Which for me, is what this amounts to.


david_ten > 20K may or may not be significant to you. I don’t know.
> What happens if life throws a curve ball and you need to move the speakers
> Or you just feel like something different?
> Knowing or being comfortable with or ’projecting' the potential impact of a current audio component decision, into the future, is something I consider.

Blindjim > compelling David. Quite. Thanks. I appreciate the thoughtfulness… and apprehensional inkling.

> 20K? yep. That’s a real load for me. Very significant. Huge.

> Life’s curve balls have been hitting me where it hurts most for the last six or seven years with some regularity. It or these events have been strong to devastating. But here we are again looking to a future with a whole lot of promise. No word yet on its length or its possible severity. Must be a need to know affair.

> Change for the sake of change isn’t me too very much. Albeit I’m sure not immune to it. I’m aiming at speakers which will work with numerous amp types. I doubt seriously the first amp combo will be the Goldilocks connection. But we’ll see. Changes ought to follow with different amps. Not more squeakers.

Excellent and superb are terms that are malleable. They hang on the eyes and ears of the beholder. Boredom is a choice.

To say a rig’s sound is the best in the world, all one has to do is never hear anything else and it is.

> Exit… Looking forward….
I’ve devoted myself to living each day as it is. Being in the moment as I am able. Sure. Pay the insurance premiums. Set some aside. Fine. But stay in the here and now as much as possible. Keep the larder large.

Audio gear by and large loses so much equity so fast, if something drastic occurs well, I’ve been there and done that too. That’s how the last rig was converted into alarms, guns, lights, roofing, a new wall. Flooring. Cell phone. Personal universal GPS alarm.

That doesn’t even cover the medical concerns which are not fully completed.

Yet here we are. Heading for what is believed to be a brighter tomorrow.

That said, and being no spring chicken, my own experience says if it doesn’t kill me regardless its drama, somehow someway things will work themselves out. They have everyttime so far.

It doesn’t come how or when I’d care for it to arrive, but things always end up acceptably enough.

Will the interim be soft and smooth? Probably not. It will pass. Delbert McClinton put it in a song, “Nothing lasts forever”. He’s right. Good or bad.

I’m not gonna live waiting for the next shoe to drop.

I’ve no clue what tomorrow holds. I feel however I do know who holds it.

All I do is trust in that power, what ever it may be as much and often as I can. I’ve come to believe, if you like what you are getting keep doing what you are doing. If not, change what you can, and without exception, the only thing I can change is me or my perspectives. This works. So far. So good. The past few decades anyhow.

This thread is changing a couple perspectives already.

Buy a pair of ProAc D48 and be done with it. 

Perhaps, you could consider amp first approach. Speakers first approach is not working. If the amp is right speakers will come. 
It is seemingly more difficult to accomplish but maybe not for you. Just an idea..

Acoustic Zen Crescendos -new

Or used Triangle Magellan Grand Concerts

Happy happy joy joy!

I rather like JOND’s suggestion. 

@sbrownnw > ProAc D48 and be done

Blindjim > I know less about this line of speakers than possibly any other. Thanks for the input.

= == = = =

@inna > amp first… speakers will come.
Good call! Could be.
Perhaps. Everything is on the table presently any approach ought to be considered IMO.

Both amp & speaker are needed as nothing in house exists which could be considered upper range audio. Mid, maybe. If everyone was drinking.
.
Ultra high end, if they were drinking a lot.

Only a pr of former now antique (‘96) Phase tech PC 10.5 3 way towers, are here and they desperately need refurbishing.

Several two way stand mounts that are decent. IMHO, very enjoyable. Not what I’d refer to as superior. Just pleasant.

A lethargic and lengthy tact would be the usual ‘stepping stone’ plan.
Stick with something reasonably popular in power and speakers as pre owned, and in combo around 10 – 20K… and go from there.
EX. Sophia III + BHK stereo amp.

It would be a test bed for new wires too. Briefly.

This might be the most efficient path. It would certainly be educational. Again, but on a far more current premise.. It would dull the ‘Go get something right now man!’ urges.

Flipping both later, even one at a time that way ought not to pose too tremendous an obstacle. Or loss.

As long as I stick to buying used or get superb deals on new. Albeit, brandy new is fast losing its luster IMHO.

I’d remind you it will be some bit of time yet before I can start looking for the UPS or FEDEX driver. Easily, no sooner than next spring, probably.

= = = = = =

@simao
Thanks much.
= = = = = = =

BTW.... HAPPY THANKSGIVING LADIES AND GENTLEMEN. BE GRATEFUL FOR SOMETHING, AS THERE IS MUCH TO BE GREATFUL FOR, EVEN IF YOU DON'T THINK SO.

@blindjim

Funny thread. Would active speakers be granted access to this experiment?

If so, easy for me; I would go with a new pair of ATC SCM150ASL Pro - in fact I believe they retail for close to if not exactly around $20,000/pair. With these speakers I believe there’re no aesthetic choices other than "working clothes" black. $20k is a lot of dough, but with the ATC’s in question, being active no less, I find they’re close to a bargain. They were the "runners-up" to my existing speakers - indeed a close call.

I like JOND's suggestion too.  A set of custom high efficiency speakers from Deja Vu Audio with vintage horns and drivers would be just the ticket.

ProAcs are known for their synergy with tubes, plus look and sound amazing.  There is a beautiful rosewood D48 with the ribbon tweeters brand new on ebay for $12000 with free shipping and 14 day return policy.  Unfortunately, ProAcs take a long time to break in, but once they do, the sound of string and double reed instruments will blow you away.  I like to use Soundocity SEV9 with my ProAc Studio 148s (a smaller and slimmer tower version).  Check my system page for details.

Check out milpai's posts.  He searched for two years, travelled to a bunch of places, and eventually settled on the D48R.  *That* is a recommendation.

Or you could possibly call Sound Organization in Texas.  They are the ProAc importers for the US.  They might be able to setup a listening session for you or an extended return window?

@phusis > Funny thread. Would active speakers be granted access to this experiment?

Blindjim > it is unconditional …. Any sort.. any tech… its about tactics not about types.

Albeit, mentioning brands and models has its value too. Especially if it/they coincide with the idea being demonstrated herein.

ATC, Meridian, Focus Aries, etc. would then all come in under the buy it new prospect I suppose. Albeit not at much of a discount.

Being more general seemed the best path as I try to put up threads that could help more than just myself.
Thanks.

= == ==

@salectric > I like JOND's suggestion too. A set of custom high efficiency speakers

Blindjim > Hmmm. I missed that, or misread it. Thanks for the reminder.

= = = = = =

@sbrownnw > the sound of string and double reed instruments will blow you away…. D48 with the ribbon tweeters brand new on ebay for $12000

> you could possibly call Sound Organization in Texas. They are the ProAc importers


Blindjim > Cool. I thought these 48s were more pricey than 12K. I might have misunderstood. Looking for a review I could not find one readily available online.

I’m guessing the R = same tower but with Ribbon tweet?

Wanna check out a special tweet, check out the Lanch 7 review in TAS from a while back. Whoa.
Thanks again.

= = = = = =

@twoleftears > Check out milpai's posts.

Blindjim > is that the one with the talk about a few other Pros? 30, 40, 48R etc.? it had 50+ posts. I read that earlier today or when I posted here last. The one I read made mention of various power options and I think was fairly recent too.

I’ve never run across any PROAC dealer in my state. Which is not a deal breaker as was said.

This thread of course, is really about how one would go about buying some pretty costly speakers in the semi dark.
Thanks.

== = = =

So far, the best “all in’ plan seems the buy used getting as much ‘built in’ value to performance ratio as is possible. Then blend accordingly..

Shaken. Not stirred.lol

Two more outlines are as interesting.
1 Get a kicking amp. Garnish to taste. An attractive direction especially given my ideas on audio. Although, its not germain and can’t be a true option for purposes of this topic’s thrust. Crap.

Of course, one can always rush out and use that as your own template. Nobody is gonna tell on you. lol

2 My own orig concept when first starting out here years back. Jump into the mix somewhere and step up accordingly, when appropriate. This one however has to be dis qualified as it doesn’t meet this thread’s focus.

Super. When was the last time you disqualified yourself? Lovely. Freakin’ lovely. Lol


To regain focus, where are you gonna pitch your 20K speaker buying bundle, and why?.

I don't see myself ever spending 20k on speakers but I do think there's a time to buy blind.  It's when you are confident that you're getting something more for your money than you'll get otherwise.  I bought a pair of ATC 110 ASLs a few years back for 5k.  They were custom made and don't look like the standard version but still aren't something many people would find attractive.  They were only two or three years old.  I had heard some small active ATCs in the past and knew I really liked the house sound and also knew they were a brand known for a very consistent sound from one model to the next. 

It was a no brainer for me and I immediately began the process of making the transaction.  Knowing what I do of audiophiles I wouldn't be surprised if I'm the only person on earth who wanted these.  Cosmetics are a deal breaker for almost all audiophiles.  Performance isn't even relevant if the look isn't what they want.  For those people it makes more sense to spend the 5k on something that sounds as good as possible and has the look they like.  Good luck finding a pair of 5k speakers with an impressive finish that will do anything close to what these can do.  I naturally tend to get off knowing I got something that is pretty close to the best at any price without even taking a big financial hit. 

25% off for new speakers isn't enough to buy them unheard at any significant price, let alone 20k.  You could almost certainly find a dealer to give you a discount, maybe not 25% but enough to make it more than worth it to have a knowledgeable person to talk to.  If you can swing 75% of retail you should swing 85% for the advantage of dealer support.  I guess if there is no dealer within hundreds of miles maybe it makes sense.

@jon_5912 > time to buy blind. It's when you are confident that you're getting something more for your money than you'll get otherwise

Blindjim > we are on the same wavelength there.

> “Performance isn't even relevant if the look isn't what they want. “

Blindjim > that was me. And still a bit. Though I’m determined this time not to let esthetics play as large a role as performance.

I’m not keen on boxes per se. just big rectangles don’t do much for me. However…

Normally I would not ever consider this level of expense. But its getting late. Chances are I likely can, so why not?

> advantage of dealer support.

Blindjim > there’s only one outlet I’m aware of nearby. I’ll have to see soon a bit more intently. Others range from 40 to 75 mi. the lines being carried by al of them is not fully clear but at one outlet, its fairly expressive. Radhu, Magico, KEF, ??? not sure what the rest are up to lately.

Many around here are or were, supposed dealers but did not stock inventories. Or had one bare bones setup like a receiver, CDP, and a pr of speakers. Always with the aclade “we can get you whatever!”.

Things might have changed of late. I will look into this more.

I’m a mite concerned of any real tangible support even at 40mi. though.

Overall, that is good sense.

Actives seem to me to be like a closet. Not much room to coax the sound much to something better. But then as with any number of other elclectic audio pieces. Dunno. Never had any. Had the shot to hear some but my then bias flatly resfused the offer. Listened to BW 800s & 801s instead. Albeit, driven by Meridiaian elecs.

Hopefully I’ll fall into something good. Like a middle range unit. And target its igher end sibling. We’ll see..


Good thoughts. Thanks.

@blindjim 

"I’m not gonna live waiting for the next shoe to drop.

I’ve no clue what tomorrow holds. I feel however I do know who holds it."  

Jim, thanks for the sage advice and reminder. I'm there with you on both.

Life is not a riddle to be puzzled out, but a mystery to be lived. R Kippling.

Fear is a big deal. It will keep one from driving on the wrong side of the road, stepping off tall buildings, or spending too much time with one’s mother in law.

Fear can also run a person’s life if not kept in check. We’ve all got it. Or them at some time or other.

This scenario’s impetus was to delve into how deep the drives are. Fear vs compulsion. Both are hopefully tainted with prudence and some restraint beyond what the wallet declares at the moment. Credit lines not with standing. Lol

Its all about how deep into the pond one wants to wade. Risk vs reward. Or merely settle on only known factors.

“the lure of easy money has a very strong appeal”

buying pre owned at a significant discount is that lure for nervous ‘philes. I’ve done it. Likely will do it again.

IMHO, the strongest petition here and possibly the best view point, seems to be if you are OK with buying used, then buy the most predictable or supposed amount of performance you can readily afford. If you believe in that product, seller, and cost, pull the trigger! Period & paragraph.

Then all one has to do is pray. Pray we can withstand the carrier and shipping incidentals. Albeit as a reminder, the carrier is the major unknown in any out of area transaction, be it on new from a dealer or used from a dealer or seller. Always.

Of all the factors, carriers scare me most. I once worked in that industry and saw how they manage containers. Yikes.

If fear of shipping is immense, and the cost of goods, great, spend more for faster transit. I see that aspect as more ‘insurance’.

Do your due diligence, buy some Tums. Watch the tracking, and setup notifications for descrepencies, and all will be well.

hopefully.

If it ultimately don’t fit. Flip. Easy peasey.

Thanks all, for the enlightening commentary. And or, any which may be forthcoming.

Blindjim

This is a tough decision. Let me drink on for a while....more to come. 


Jim
dealer 

Whatever you might eventually get you will think that you might've not discovered something better. You cannot have anything really good, it is not possible.
One of the reasons I suggested Gryphon Diablo 300 to you - there is nothing better in solid state integrated amplification. And if you want hybrid integrated amplification - there is nothing better than Ypsilon Phaethon. If you do separates you will be somewhere in the middle. Full warranty covering expensive equipment is a big plus and should not be dismissed.
Soon enough you will spend more on electrical bills talking to us than on the equipment that you can have. I will not say a word from now on.

Build the Linkwitz LX521 and do the whole project for about $5000.  Spend the other $15,000 on concert tickets and recordings.  You won't find a better loudspeaker anywhere at any price.  But if you truly insist, you can drop your $20k on some monkey coffins and wish you had more to spend on bigger monkey coffins.

Up to you.

http://www.linkwitzlab.com/LX521/LX521_4.htm

Speakers are only one part of the equation. You can have the world greatest speaker but if it's not a right fit for your room it will not live upto its potential. Then you have to consider what's driving it and synergy. Then you can narrow down the choices.

Mat
www.jjaudiosolutions.com

+1 koliamala 
Have to take all that into account. Especially room and am compatibility. 
NOT a dealer nor have any skin in the game. Just aware of the opportunity and your request and budget.  Mint pair of Venture Grand Ultimate speakers. Original owner. Cases are included.  Here’s a review:http://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/venture-grand-ultimate-loudspeaker-tas-213/  Retailed at nearly $90,000. Asking $22,000  located in Princeton, NJ. Contact Doug White owner of http://www.thevoicethatis.com  -  (610) 359-0189 who as a courtesy can put you in contact with the owner.  Good luck with your search.  

soundsrealaudio
Cheers!
= == =

@Inna > Gryphon or Ypsalon.

Blindjim > I hear you. loud and clear. I sincerely appreciate each and every insight provided me thus far. Several have been eye openers. Would never have suspected them otherwise most likely. Certainly would not have given them as much credence.

= = = =

russbutton
thanks for the original view point.

= = = =

@kollamala
Agreed. Its off topic though. Room is not at issue. The questions are buying tactics and best possible presumptions regarding amp > speaker synergy.
But thanks for the input.

= = = =

@gcp
Hypothetically speaking, which is the thrust of this topic, thank you. especially for the link. Cool.

Very few speakers compare to:

1.  Legacy Audio Aeris (by far the best sound for the money)
2.  Tannoy Canterberry Gold Reference
3.  Linkwitz LX521 (best buy)

Buy the first two in the used market, and last one is Madisound Kit.

No comparison at anywhere near the price!

@inna I agree with your suggesting the JM Labs Utopias. Hard to beat a speaker in this league in the $10K neighborhood. However the pair you referenced don't have the wooden crates. It's a risky move for a buyer unless he's certain he'll never want to sell them.  

@bassdude2
Thanks a lot.


@cycles2
Appreciate it.

= = = = = = = = = =

The choices are all well received and certainly appreciated. And as your own examples of purchases, fine enough.

But….

Again, here is THE ‘CATCH!!!!

What would you do buying speakers in the semi, or total blind, go with a partial known new speaker , or shoot for higher value in used speakers While spending around 20 thousand bucks.

Hi Blindjim,
I would go with Option 1 because I would get a lot more for the investment. 

Lansche 
www.lansche-audio.com

Tidal
www.tidal-audio.com

Vertity
www.verityaudio.com

Go To Audio shows large and small and begin listening tests a $600 ticket and $500 room is small price to invest in a $20,000 decision

If this was my 20k I would find myself a HiFi expert and get him (for a commission) to recognise firstly my system and also to find out what I want from the speaker (if I want anything) and then get together for the audition all different type of speakers either chosen by me or by him (or her).  The point of this exercise is I don't have to endlessly travel to the ends of the world to audition different speakers, the expert does all that and arranges me to go to one place whether at home or somewhere else and I just sit there and audition.  Ofcourse one can take a gamble or an educated gamble and buy the second hand speaker blind based just on reviews.