"Newbie" wrote in message
...
Having been away from audio for a long time, I am now looking to
upgrade from KEF 104ab, an speaker, probably similar to Spendor and
Rogers models. I would prefer a floorstander, but not much larger
footprint than my present speakers (ie, no Quads or Maggies). This is
for 2-channel stereo, not home theater.

Please suggest suitable brands and models. Friends have suggeted
Spendor, Proac and Dynaudio. However, I am confused by various "series"
within a brands (don't recall that happening when I shopped last time
but could just be my faulty memory!), eg, should I be looking at
Contour or something else in dynaudio?

All comments and advice appreciated.

My choice would be for Dynaudio and Proac since they use the top 2 drivers
made IMO Dynaudio uses it own brand and Proac uses drivers sourced from
Scan-Speak.

An alternative that would give you at least as much bang for your buck, is
to look into kit speakers. There are several that require nothing more than
a screwdriver to assemble. Of these my personal favorite is the Thor which
uses drivers from a company by the name of SEAS. They are available through
www.madisound. you can find complete details and a review of hits speaker
which was designed by Joe D'appolito, one of the foremost designers in the
business. If you're looking to spend in the neighborhood of $1500.00 U.S.
they are worth a look.

Good Luck with whatever you choose.