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Small monitors/bookshelves for classical music

I currently own KEF iQ5 floorstanding speakers and ROTEL RB980BX Power Amp. I listen to classical music(Bach, Mahler, Wagner, etc). Though KEF iQ5 lacks deep bass, I am completely fine with that when listening to classical music.

I am seeking to buy a pair of new/used monitors/bookshelf speakers. I want a truly "bookshelf" speaker which can be put on a desk or even a bookshelf. I will not put them on stands. Neither will I pair them with a subwoofer. But I will pair them with this ROTEL RB980BX. ROTEL RB980BX is very powerful, 120W/ch. I can spend below $600.

After doing multiple painful searches online and on this forum, I have several potential speakers/monitors in mind.
PSB Alpha B1
B&W 686 or 685
Paradigm Mini
hl10027
Ag insider logo xs@2x
headshrinker2
110 posts
 
You have a good short list so far. No substitute to going and have a listen with your own ears! Let us know what you decide.
tgrisham
1,179 posts
 
I am using the Von Schweikert VR-1s and love classical and small jazz group music through them. I did add a small REL sub but it really only matters with rock and new Jazz music. They can often be found at $600. And, mine are not for sale.
rgs92
958 posts
 
SF Cremona Auditors. They make real magic. I have the original ones & never heard the current Ms but if was looking for speakers in the size range you describe (or any size range, as my little Auditors are that wonderful) I would give the Ms a listen based on my love for the originals. I don't even have the stands for them and they are still awesome, despite being warned to the contrary. I have them on these little "Polywood" tables I got on Amazon.
hl10027 OP
13 posts
 
Rgs92, thank you for your reply but Cremona Auditors are way out of my price range of $600.
timrhu
2,778 posts
 
The Von Scheikert VR1 is an obvious choice for a used speaker in your price range. And you have to be quick when they show up.
A better choice for a small speaker that can sit near a back wall is the Polk Audio LSi7. I have owned both, along with a few other nice small monitors, and the Polks are my favorite. They make music better than any under $500 speaker I have owned.
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