Looking for "Last" 2 channel speaker system.


I am looking to downsize my speaker system in the near future and am interested in some feedback as to what my shortlist should be for auditions!

Some background. I currently have the Genesis 4 tower speakers, and absolutely love everything about them, except, their size! In particular I like the fact that the bass towers have adjustments which includes remote volume.........very very handy and useful.

For my last set of speakers I would like something with a much smaller footprint, that can also play occassionaly at higher SPL's. I think soundstage and detail and a holographic image is important, and a strong bass is important although I'm not completely against using a separate subwoofer to assist with the absolute bottom ends.

Some of the contenders that I am considering are: Marten Coltrane, Consensus Conspiracy, Avalon Isis, JM Lab Stella, Hanson King V2 and some model of Kharma. I have also been reading lately some very good reports on the top of the line Legacy speaker.

I would like to keep the price down somewhat, hoping to spend no more than $25K on the used market, perhaps up to $40K for something that performs in Utopia.

I don't feel that my front end info matters much as it is constantly in a state of flux, although I don't see the MBL6010D leaving.

Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
bullot
You're looking to spend 25 to 40K and don't think your front end matters?

I think he means, it's not important for us to know exactly what he's using right now, because it is constantly changing.
Magico Minis? Those plus a nice sub for the lows might do it. My favorite "small" speaker is the Sonus Faber Guarneri (originals, not the Mementos).
I think what he means is that since his front end changes regularly, he does not have a need to match a recommended speaker to his existing components - that he can/would change as is necessary to match well with new speakers. That being said, I think his approach is correct in that it provides him maximum flexibility on finding the best speakers and not limiting his selection to only speakers that mate up well with his front end and other components. I did not read him to state he doesn't think the front end has an influence on the speakers. At his used speaker price range, I don't think changing pre, CD, or even amps will be that big of a stretch.

Lot's of speakers in this price range that are fantastic. More of what you are likely to experience is nuances more so than full tilt differences.

I'd add to the list Wilsons (which I like) and MBL's (which from a size perpective fit your goal). I really think in this price range, attending a show is the way to go. It will afford you the opportunity to hear many high value products in close time/proximity to each other. Running around to different dealers may be a bit much and so broken up in time frame that it makes it hard. At this price range I definately feel a show is the best approach.