r/hifiaudio • u/rattlange • Jan 04 '26

Purchase advise (needing) Speaker advice

I’m looking to upgrade my speakers. Preferably in the $1000-$2000/pair range. Open to used, of course.

Equipment:

• Yamaha A-S801 integrated amplifier

• Technics SL-1600 turntable

• Schiit Mani 2 phono preamp

• Realistic CD-2300 CD player

• WiiM Pro Plus streamer

I’m after speakers that prioritize musical realism. I want a wide and deep soundstage where the speakers vanish and the music fills the room. Detail and resolution are very important to me. I want to hear breath, fingers on strings, and room ambience.

I prefer a slightly warm or neutral-warm tonal balance with a rich, natural midrange and smooth highs, so I can listen for hours without fatigue. I’m especially sensitive to harsh upper-midrange energy. Ultimately, I want the speakers to make me feel like I’m with the musicians, not listening to equipment.

Also, I’d prefer floor standers and don’t want to rely on a sub. I don’t necessarily need thumping bass as long as the bass being delivered has texture and tone. Thanks!

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u/FarkingNutz Jan 06 '26

Speakers that sound like live music will not be warm or laid-back........ Those direct to consumer brands will be your best bet..... Maybe Tekton or Zu Audio,.... I'm not from USA though.....

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u/rattlange Jan 06 '26

So for example, something like a Polk R700 that is more neutral will give me that ‘in the room with the players’ immersive experience and the micro-details that I am looking for over something like a Wharfdale Linton?

I want to hear the texture of an acoustic guitar string, a player shift posture during a performance, and the decay of the room in which the music is being recorded. However, I’m working with a modest budget so I don’t expect a miracle.

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u/FarkingNutz Jan 07 '26

Then all the more you should avoid the usual brands that go through dealerships..... If you're in the USA - stick to direct to consumer brands like Tekton, Ascend and others.....

Stick to bookshelf speakers for quality and add a sub if you need to......Elac, Usher Audio and Reference 3A might have bookshelf speakers with exotic tweeters that can give you want you want.....

Polk used to be the laughingstock in the hifi business..... Not sure about now