There is nothing in the price range of the 1.6-1.7's that can compete with them. My issue is that my room is live and I have a system that should not sound bright but is does lean a little to the bright side of neutral because of the room acoustics which is not going to change. I know that the PSB Synchony's are discontinued but there are still quite a few for sale. As for the Sonus Faber's I would consider the 3.0's, but I would probably try and up my budget for the Harbeth's at about $5500pr. PSB does have a replacement for the Synchony's but they sell for about $6500pr.