Can you get "bookshelf sound" from a floorstander?

Eyediver: If you go with Merlin, you will need to replace your entire system. Bobby insists on Cardas cables, it used to be Joule electronics, etc. It seems as though his speakers are voiced in such a way that they only sound "right" with certain -- and expensive -- equipment. That always struck me as odd, but that's the reality. They're also lacking in coherence. I think you can do a lot better for less money. (Bobby certainly doesn't skimp on the quality of the stuff he puts into the boxes, and that is reflected in the price.)

You might want to check out Von Schweikert, Spendor and Totem's The One. There are lots of good choices out there.

"That one's a bit of a stretch." Couldn't agree more, it seems to be the standard here anymore. Some also are the first to stretch and it's seems to be a part time job at it ! Only in America can one waste so much time and energy on baloney.

EyeDiver,

OHM Micro Walsh are floor standers using a Walsh driver configuration that meets those criteria in your price range.

I use slightly larger and more costly versions of these in my system, but the Micros come pretty close to these from what I have heard.

Totem Arros also but you've already eliminated those.

9rw,

The VSM presents a sufficiently benign load to the amp that virtually ANY model over 10-15 wpc will work well. I've used more than a dozen different power amps from 300B SET designs to SS high output monsters. Ironically, it allows successful system matching with a greater variety of amps than just about any other extended bandwidth speaker (in-room bass to <30hz) that I've heard. Bobby's personal preferences aside, it's simply wrong to suggest that anyone need change out their system to accomodate VSMs (unless they're running flea powered SET amps).

I'd also point out that the system is a 2 way with x-over at 2200hz. This set up should intuitively provide more "coherent" sound than 3 ways or systems which feature x-over points in the octave or 2 around middle C, where the ear is most sensitive to discontinuity. In my experience, that is exactly what happens with the VSM.

Of course, you're entitled to your opinions, but your specific criticisms of the VSM are at odds with my 10+ years of experience with this speaker. It's not perfect, by any means, but it is Very easy to match to the amp of your choice and it is Very "coherent" (seamless) for a speaker with its low bass roll-off point.

Marty

With a budget of <$1K, many options suggested here are taken off the table.

From my years in this hobby, if I was shopping for speakers at $1K used, my first choice would be the best deal I could find on Vandersteen 1 or 2. Various versions were produced for each model so I would look for the latest available.

Not everyone is a fan of the Vandy sound, some find it muffled and/or without high end detail and extension. Others of us find it to offer realistic treble information without false brightness. One main advantage with all Vandys is the lack of cabinet colorations, a specific objective in Richard's designs. They also offer solid bass response at their respective price points.

Some may argue with this point but I believe Vandys must be placed away from the front and side walls to sound their best. When positioned properly, they can sound good with some modest electronics, but reward the owner with every upgrade. With proper set up and decent electronics, they can be one of the most open and uncolored systems I know of.