Inexpensive high efficiency bookshelf speakers

Simon - check out Omega Loudspeakers. They fit all your desires.

Arthur

I have heard a pair of Focal 706v at a friends home and frankly, I was stunned at what I was hearing. They were powered by a Cambridge Audio integrated and an Oppo player. Nothing fancy. The first word that comes to mind is dynamic, the kind of authority that normally comes with a much higher price tag. They are only about $600- new, and are very efficient, although I don't know the exact sensitivity. The presentation is a bit forward so if you are looking for something a bit laid back these probably aren't going to be for you. At any rate this is a pair of speakers that, in my opinion, plays in a neighborhood of much more expensive bookshelves. Good luck in your quest and let us know what you finally decide on.

Mirage OS3-FS. They have a tiny footprint, have the speed and transparency of a good mini-monitor, are rated at 93dB sensitivity, and being omnidirectional, energize the entire room and turn it into a listening area. The enclosure is an aluminum extrusion and is very inert--no boxy sound.

I have their OMD-15 floorstanders, and the 91-93 dB sensitivity is very noticeable. I get clip-free room-filling volume in a cathedral-ceiling open architecture living space from an 85 wpc integrated amp.

Thank you. Omega look interesting (93 dB) and I am looking toward Decware as well.

Focal 706v ? What web site or manufacturer name?
Thanks again
Simon

04-06-09: Simontju
Focal 706v ? What web site or manufacturer name?

Made by JM Labs of France. Available many places including Music Direct, which carries JM Focal's Chorus and Profile series. I'm not sure if you're limited to a stand-mounted (or bookshelf) speaker, but for $150 more you can get the floorstanding version with a supplemental woofer, more dynamic range, bass extension, and sensitivity/efficiency.