I am in the market for a new speaker upgrade. I am hoping to receive recommendations on brands and models to look at. I have already demoed some Kef and Totem speakers, which I really enjoy. I really have my eye on the Totem Rainmakers. Not sure if they will be a good fit for my room or amp though.
I’d also like something that will be flexible with integrated amp upgrade possibilities down the road.
I’d say it’s a small to medium room size at approximately 15’ x 20’. There is a large picture window to the left of the listening position that has curtains covering it. To the right of the listening position is a half wall that goes into an open kitchen. Behind the seat is a floor to ceiling stone hearth and fireplace wall.
My budget tops at $600-$900, but $1100 will be the absolute max. Looking for bookshelf monitors and I’d like to be able to include stands within that budget.
I enjoy a balanced sound profile. I don’t necessarily crave super clarity or very bright sounding speakers, but enjoy a neutral sound. Sharp, clear bass is great, but I’m not super into hard, thumping bass. I’m still new to audio so pardon if these descriptors aren’t exactly clear.
My current setup is a Rotel RA-12, Project Debut Carbon w/ Ortogon 2M Blue cartridge, and a DTS Play-Fi streamer (for Tidal Hifi and Spotify streaming). Current speakers are stand mounted Polk RTi-A1s.
I have a toddler that wanders around this space. So grille covers are a must. I am also welcome to floorstanding recommendations, but thinking stand mounted ones will be ideal since it’s less he can mess with on the floor.
Sorry for the super wordy post... But one last note: We have a lot of mid-century modern furniture in our home. So looking for options with a clean, simple design and aesthetics.
Have you listened to the ELAC UB-5? Nice balanced sound with excellent imaging, detail, and bass for the size/price. Throw in Dayton Audio 24" metal stands for a little over $60 shipped, (Parts Express). Use some black Goriila tape to fill wire holes on center column and fill all three with sand. Blue Tack the speakers- I'm using a NAD D3020 amp & sounds great to my ear. Music Direct gives you 60 days to check them out with your room & system, if you can't get a local shop to give a home trial.
I haven't listened to Elacs. I understand they are pretty incredible for the money. Thanks for the tip regarding a budget stand option.
I have been following your other post. I believe, given that you currently own and enjoy a system, that you explore the speaker market prior to changing out your amp. In your price range there are many moderately sensitive speakers that can be driven by your Rotel. The Marantz amps you are considering are very good products in there price range, however don't provide a great deal more power than does the Rotel, should the need for power arise (do to speaker choice). If you find you need more power to drive your new speakers without strain at high volumes you then can search out another that not only provided the needed power but is a sonic match to your speakers and tastes as well.
Many excellent speakers have been recommended. It seem that you can audition many of them. Do so. Good luck in your search.
Music Direct currently has ELAC UB-5 in black or walnut at $399 pair. My local guy will match authorized dealer mail order prices- might be worth checking out.
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