Surprised no votes for Focals. I have the $4K Aria 936's (seen them on sale recently) and they sound amazing. Huge soundstage, I can walk into other rooms and they still sound good. I like them far better than the B&W 800 series and any Revels (haven't heard the new beryllium). I also like them better than the step up in the Arias 948 - I think. I do really like Harmon & Revel sound, just didn't get as open and musical as the Focals, which could have been the amp I demoed them with. Amp's can make a huge difference. I personally would demo the Sopra No 2's or any of new Kanta's which looks nice. Focals have a great sound and pair nicely with tube and/or ss gear. I run them off a hybrid amp and they sound amazing.
Curious what people think is the best "value" high end speaker (~5K to 15K)
I am on a long search for speakers and just curious what people think is the best value both new or used in speakers ranging from around $5000 to $15000? I have a set of Paradigm S8's (V1) and love them but looking for another set for another set in a different listening area (25 x 20?, maybe larger). I love the full sound of JBL's and looking for something in that range (it also helps that JBL's seem to hold their value better than most, which will be a consideration). The only drawback to JBL is footprint. I prefer a smaller footprint which is why after reading I hope to listen to several B&W 800 series but open to suggestions across the board. used Watt Puppies? Revels? I am curious about peoples experience with McIntosh XR100's.