Best speaker in nearfield listening

Re: Sonus Faber Extremas. I listen to mine in the nearfield as far out from the long wall as possible. Speakers and chair form a 7 ft. equilateral triangle. ENORMOUS soundstage, up to 180 deg. with some recordings. No or minimal room effect. The absolute best I've been able to find for my room (12X18). You'll need 200w/ch. though to get the best out of them.

I'll second the Merlin's. I sit six or seven feet away, and I love them. As long as they're far enough from the side and rear walls, they'll be fine (but that's probably the case with most speakers)

Audio Physics STEPS

I've got a pair of Harbeth 7ES's and they are terrific at nearfield listening. I don't think they will "seem" as airy as an electrostat - if you want this try the Red Rose, the ribbon tweater is great. But, I find the Harbeths very accurate and sensual. Good luck!

Try the Audio Physic Avanti Centuries it blows the Virgo's and the new Avanti III's away. This is a special edition Avanti that uses the tweeter from the $20K Audio Physic Caledra. I believe there is a pair on Audiogon for under 5K....good luck.