Totems without Claws?

the forests are fine without claws

I had your same problem. I own Hawks and have used them with and without claws - with a fair amount of lead shot in the base, there is little difference.

However, the chrome claws were going to be a showstopper for me too but my dealer called Totem and they actually have a nice looking black claw that you can buy - I bought them and use them and they look great versus the ugly chrome ones. Give them a call.

Thanks for the input guys.

Now I simply need to decide whether to go for the Totems or a set of Thiels.

Cheers.

Chris

Lots of really good speakers in this price range other than Totems and Thiels too. I auditioned a bunch and had a hard time deciding. Totem, Thiel, Vandy, Revel, Von Schweikert, Dali, Proac, Vienna, PMC, etc. The best of the bunch I think by far are the Gallo Reference - alas they did not come close to meeting the wife acceptance factor. I settled for the Hawks and have since added a pair of inconspicuous subs to fill out the sound.

Good luck.

the thiels are goood, gut the forests are incredibly good.