First time posting in the stereophile.com forums, but after lurking for awhile, I find I really like the helpful and informative feedback provided by the forum members, whether asking about $300 equipment or $30,000 equipment.
I'm just dipping my toes in the waters of the audiophile world and am building an "affordable" two channel stereo system. I recently purchased a Marantz PM6005 amplifier and Pro-ject Debut Carbon Esprit DC turntable and have Pioneer SP-BR22-LR speakers. The speakers are "okay", but okay just isn't good enough. I'm hoping to get some recommendations for new/upgraded speakers.
Please see below for relevant details:
My budget is around $1000, but feel free to recommend speakers slightly higher than this, since open box and other deals can be found on different audio equipment websites and possibly eBay.
My current room is pretty large, but I am more interested in filling the listening area than the room. I am also considering relocating my setup to my home office, which is between 300 and 400 square feet.
***I do not have a preference of floor standers over stand mounts, but would like good speaker stand recommendations for any suggested stand mounts.
***I don't have to have brand new speakers if there are some really good used/vintage speakers to be had.
***I listen to numerous styles of music including jazz, acoustic singer-songwriter, adult alternative, and rock. Not much rap, heavy metal, or techno in my library.
***The Marantz doesn't have a sub out, so I'm only look at main speakers
***I've done tons of research and consistently see the following brands and models listed in or near my price range:
KEF Q300, Q500, Q700 (deal at A4L - $479.99 open box with 5 year warranty)
B&W 684S2, 685S2, 686S2
Wharefdale Diamond 10.x series
Monitor Audio
Definitive
PSB
I don't have a local audio shop (to my knowledge) where I can audition any of these speakers.
I've tried to provide all the relevant details needed for a solid recommendation. If something is missing that would help in recommendations, let me know and I'll provide the info. Thanks!