Bookshelf Speakers for under $500

[matt39]

Hi fahertyps,

Just thought I'd suggest a possible alternative to the Monitor Audio B2. If you have a PSB dealer in your area you might want to audition the new Image B25. It's in your price range at $450 and is also front ported. While I haven't yet heard this model, I auditioned it's predecessor the Image 2B extensively and they were very good speakers so the new model could be worth a listen. The Monitor is an excellent choice but the PSB could at least give you something to compare. One thing I was wondering, do you like your Mini Monitors? Seems to me they would compete directly with what you're considering. Good luck.

[jasmit]

fahertyps - you wrote: "I was leaning towards a pair of Paradigm Studio 20 v4s, which I heard recently . . . ."

Would that be v.3 or has Paradigm snuck in another version?

If you're talking about the Studio 20 v.3, yes they are a little more expensive and slightly larger than the MA B2's. I've heard both and, while the B2's are a very nice speaker and well worth the money, to my ears the Studio 20's sounded so much better -- much more than the difference in price between them and the B2's. But that's to my ears; you're certainly wise to audition as many speakers in or near your price range as you can.

[fahertyps]

Hi fahertyps,

Just thought I'd suggest a possible alternative to the Monitor Audio B2. If you have a PSB dealer in your area you might want to audition the new Image B25. It's in your price range at $450 and is also front ported. While I haven't yet heard this model, I auditioned it's predecessor the Image 2B extensively and they were very good speakers so the new model could be worth a listen. The Monitor is an excellent choice but the PSB could at least give you something to compare. One thing I was wondering, do you like your Mini Monitors? Seems to me they would compete directly with what you're considering. Good luck.

I was beginning to think this post had taken on a life of its own... I decided to go with the Monitor Audio B2. I have not hear them, but have read so many good reviews that I thought I'd chance it. I'm pretty limited where I live. Most of the high end dealers are over an hour away from me--even my favorite Paradigm dealer. As far as the Mini Monitors, I like them quite a bit as the fronts in my surround system. I was limited by size there also. Hope I won't be disappointed.