I would.

First of all, if you CAN use floorstanding speakers, you should do so. In almost every case the bass response will be smoother and more expanded, and you will get a more natural balanced sound, period.

Of the two you mention, the KEF speakers are much better-sounding; it's not even close. They are very good. (comparing $4500 floor-standing speakers to $1800 box speakers????...)

Since you are talking about spending around $4500, however, the best-sounding speaker I know of in that range is the Vandersteen 3A. I have used them for a number of years, and I have compared them to many others (some costing much more money) and have never wanted to change. In long-term listening, they are far superior to most other comparably-priced designs that may sound good in a showroom but fail to satisfy on longer acquaintance.

Another one that is quite outstanding at the same price is the PSB Synchrony 1.  It is one speaker that I could live with if my Vandersteens didn't exist.

If one was in the $2500 price range, another outstanding speaker for that price is the PSB Imagine T.

mara5 wrote:

Am in the process of upgrading. Any opinions on these two? I realize it's FS vs Bookie, but the 703's are getting rave reviews.

I would agree with the Vandersteen recommendation, but sometimes they need at least 100w solid state.  In that range you should try to hear a set of Focal Chorus FS's.  Very nice big open sound and IMO nicer looking.