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  1. #1
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    Front ported bookshelves around $500

    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.

  2. #2
    Suspended markw's Avatar
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    I've never heard these 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.

  3. #3
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    Quote Originally Posted by markw View Post
    I've never heard these 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.

  4. #4
    Super Moderator Site Moderator JohnMichael's Avatar
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    Do not forget the Focal 700 series discounted at Music Direct. I think you would like the newer generation of tweeters.
    JohnMichael
    Vinyl Rega Planar 2, Incognito rewire, Deepgroove subplatter, ceramic bearing, Michell Technoweight, Rega 24V motor, TTPSU, FunkFirm Achroplat platter, Michael Lim top and bottom braces, 2 Rega feet and one RDC cones. Grado Sonata, Moon 110 LP phono.
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  5. #5
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    Quote Originally Posted by JohnMichael View Post
    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.

  6. #6
    Forum Regular blackraven's Avatar
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    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

    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

    Polk also makes a few front ported speakers
    Pass Labs X250 amp, BAT Vk-51se Preamp,
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  7. #7
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    Quote Originally Posted by blackraven View Post
    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

    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

    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.

  8. #8
    Super Moderator Site Moderator JohnMichael's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Hyfi View Post
    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.
    JohnMichael
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  9. #9
    Forum Regular harley .guy07's Avatar
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    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

    Marantz SR5008(HT)
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  10. #10
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    Quote Originally Posted by JohnMichael View Post
    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.

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