Front ported bookshelves around $500

[Hyfi]

Looking for good smallish front ported bookshelves for a bedroom setup.

Currently considering Usher S-520s but open to suggestions. Audio Engine has a pair but I have never heard them or know anyone with a pair. Polk has a few but I have never been a big fan, maybe I should be. Infinity Primus has a pair also.

Any other suggestions? I will go another $100 and would also be happy spending less.

[markw]

I've never heard these (http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=MRBBX2) myself but would consider them, particularly since AA has a liberal return policy. And, I love 6 1/2" speakers on bookshelves. IMNSHO, anything smaller doesn't qualify as a bass reproducer.

[Hyfi]

I've never heard these (http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=MRBBX2) myself but would consider them, particularly since AA has a liberal return policy. And, I love 6 1/2" speakers on bookshelves. IMNSHO, anything smaller doesn't qualify as a bass reproducer.

That could be a contender but a little larger footprint than what I would like. Thanks, Mark. I do have an old sub I can integrate if needed.

[JohnMichael]

Do not forget the Focal 700 series discounted at Music Direct. I think you would like the newer generation of tweeters.

[Hyfi]

Do not forget the Focal 700 series discounted at Music Direct. I think you would like the newer generation of tweeters.

Thanks, forgot they were front ported. The 705 looks good, the 706 may be too big for the spot but I will remeasure. Good call since I do like my older JM Labs.

[blackraven]

I was going to suggest the Focals and MA as well but also consider the NHT Abolute Zero and Classic 2. I don't believe that they are ported but I could be wrong

Bookshelf/Monitor Speakers-Audio Advisor (http://www.audioadvisor.com/products.asp?dept=49&pagenumber=2&sort_on=title&sort_by=)

If you don't mind using a sub then give a listen to these Martin Logan Motion 4's. They have a neutral crystal clear and detailed sound with excellent transparency and a wide sound stage. Best Buy Magnolia stores have them. They have a very small port in the back. But they can be placed against the wall. I heard them about 4"-6" from a wall and was astounded by the sound.

MartinLogan - Motion 4 - Bookshelf Speaker-Audio Advisor (http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=MLMO4)

Polk also makes a few front ported speakers

[Hyfi]

I was going to suggest the Focals and MA as well but also consider the NHT Abolute Zero and Classic 2. I don't believe that they are ported but I could be wrong

Bookshelf/Monitor Speakers-Audio Advisor (http://www.audioadvisor.com/products.asp?dept=49&pagenumber=2&sort_on=title&sort_by=)

If you don't mind using a sub then give a listen to these Martin Logan Motion 4's. They have a neutral crystal clear and detailed sound with excellent transparency and a wide sound stage. Best Buy Magnolia stores have them. They have a very small port in the back. But they can be placed against the wall. I heard them about 4"-6" from a wall and was astounded by the sound.

MartinLogan - Motion 4 - Bookshelf Speaker-Audio Advisor (http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=MLMO4)

Polk also makes a few front ported speakers

Thanks Raven, the MLs are quite ugly but the NHTs are pretty nice. At this moment, I am leaning towards the Focals due to looks, price and the fact that I have older JM Labs that I love. I need to measure my spot again to see if I can fit the 706s without the wife getting upset. Otherwise it will be the 705s and an old sub.

[JohnMichael]

Thanks, forgot they were front ported. The 705 looks good, the 706 may be too big for the spot but I will remeasure. Good call since I do like my older JM Labs.

Rechecking the price and $350 for the705's is a great deal.

[harley .guy07]

I would say out of the speakers listing here from different people and taking price point into account I would say the original thought of the Usher 520's are a good one and frankly hard to beat in their price range. And if you get to the point that you want more low end Usher sells a base stand for the 520 that adds a low frequency driver and crossover that is perfectly set up for the 520

[Hyfi]

Rechecking the price and $350 for the705's is a great deal.

I know. As soon as I get home and re-measure my spot, I may be ready to order. The free shipping is also a great deal on these guys.