Under $2k bookshelf speakers for classic rock lover

I'm getting my Linn LP12/Ekos/Arkiv back into shape after years in storage, and am using my BWS tube preamp and amp (clean and neutral sounding) and need a pair of smaller, likely 2-way, speakers. The speakers will be about 5 or 6 feet apart and about 10 feet from my listening position. I plan to put them on an existing credenza, probably can't use stands due to space/spouse constraints.

I listen to mostly classic rock: Steve Miller, Pink Floyd, Zeppelin, Neil Young, Bowie, etc.

I plan to buy second hand online, and am looking to keep it under $2k. I won't play at loud volumes, and I like a smooth high end, really don't like a "bright" sound.

Any suggestions?

 

I looked up BWS and the amp I found makes 13 watts. How about: http://omegaloudspeakers.com/superalnicomonit.html

or: http://omegaloudspeakers.com/hemptonecompact8.html

 

Those are beautiful I'll check them out. I should clarify I don't have the 13 watt single ended amps, I've got his 40 watt push-pull design.

 

They ain't small, the ain't 2 way, but they sure can rock- JBL L 100 Century

 

For similar requirements, I came pretty close to buying Zu Audio speakers. Ended up coming across a good used deal on something else that was too good to pass up and I'm quite happy, but if it hadn't appeared, I would've gone Zu.

 

I LOVE my System Audio Aura10's, but they are almost impossible to find in the US with only 4 dealers.

One I've heard that was awesome as well is the DynAudio Excite 14.

 

Tekton Mini Lore Monitors, perhaps (I'm going with the assumption of low-powered amp...)

 

OK ... we're all wondering - what did you get ???!!!

 

Hah sorry didn't mean it to be a cliffhanger. Dynaudio Focus 160s, used but mint, in the color I wanted, walnut. I love them but would consider them a bit more up-the-middle audiophile, whereas Zus, by reputation at least, are less strictly accurate and a touch sweeter with classic rock, jazz, etc.

 

Aren't ProAc's supposed to pack a punch for their size? Maybe something from Totem? Not sure how efficient these models are though.

 

Tannoy Precision 6.1 http://tannoy.com/residential/#!products_448

Killer sound for the money and should work great with your amp. These would also come in under your budget for a new pair.

 

Rockier and livelier :

 

Better plan on adding a sub for full enjoyment.

 

I think you made the right choice. My favorite system among my audiophile buddies features Dynaudio speakers. Some friends have far more expensive and larger speakers, but I find the midrange of those Dynaudios very accurate and non-fatiguing. They really do disappear fed the right signal.

 

cool, but I'm afraid these would be too 'sizzly' for the OP (and maybe too 'cheap', he said up to $2000/pair). I'm actually looking at this range for upgrades to my center/surround/back speakers in my (separate, family room) surround setup. Would drive them with a Denon or Marantz AVR or preamp (or something else known for smooth sound).

 

Check out the PSB Imagine B, the Sonus Faber Venere, the KEF LS50 and the Nola Boxer. My personal picks for rock in that group would be the PSB and the Nola, but all are well-reviewed and competently designed.

 

P3ESR...

 

Good speaker, but not really for Classic Rock.

 

The Palladium bookshelfs. U$ 2000.

 

Read the reviews, some say these are a tad bass light. I was looking at a pair myself but went for Pioneer's S71-B instead. Probably closer to the sound you're looking for too.

 

I'd argue that

 

I had a pair of these with orange grills that I bought new in around 74 I loved them and wish I still had them. Great for rock and roll crip but bass heavy. My neighbor downstairs hated them.

They were stolen when my apartment was robbed in 1985.

 

Sonus Faber Cremona Monitors can easily be had for under $2000. I can attest to how fantastic they sound. Their build quality and appearance can't be topped. We're upgrading from them to Olympica 3s.

 

I've got a lot to chew on and research here. Someone mentioned ProAc and I saw that Abs Sound rates their Tablette Anniversary very highly.

Now where is the sound clip library with all speakers sorted by price played through the same system and same recording??

 

You really should look up the Ascend Sierra 2 bookshelf -These sell for right around 1,500 for the pair. Custom Raal tweeter and new mid woofer created by Seas from Norway just for this project. Alexsandar from Raal even posted over at Ascend to chime in on the two years of development work he and Dave put in on them. Mine arrive this weekend and from the research I have done I expect them to be spectacular.