Hi, Folks - I am not a rocket scientist when it comes to home audio, and I really don't want to be. However, I have sensitive ears and can tell the difference between speakers that people think are excellent and those that are genuinely excellent.

I purchased a pair of Mordaunt Short 20i Pearl speakers and a Harmon Kardon HK3250 receiver from a local audio dealer about 15 years ago. In spite of the lacking bass range, I have been happy with this arrangement ever since. However, I moved into a new house three years ago and now have a large kitchen/den combination (approx. 13x25) with a high ceiling. I think it is time to invest in some floor standing speakers that can fill this room.

However, like everyone else, I want high quality at a low cost, so I am looking in the used market. My local dealer recommends his new JM Lab Cobalt series speakers. However, I had hoped to spend under $500. The only other brands I am familiar with are KEF and Mordaunt Short. I do not know how other British or American speakers compare. Also, I know that most companies produce different grades of speakers for different price ranges. I want to make sure I am not purchasing a low-end speaker for a high-end price.

I recently saw a clean pair of Mordaunt Short 40i speakers on eBay that went for around $200. I was sorry I didn't bid higher. I have also been watching the KEF speakers on eBay. I want to keep my Harmon Kardon receiver and add a Cambridge Audio CD player. I would appreciate any tips on finding excellent used/vintage speakers and or quality brands comparable to Mordaunt Short and KEF that would work with this combination. Thanks.

Becky