Top 5... £500+ SPEAKERS

There's nothing technical about this top 5 listing and I fully realise that there are loads that could have been here that aren't... but these are speakers that I've bought, sometimes owned and sold over the years. They are all, in my humble opinion, great units within their price range. My strongest advice is that if you like your existing speakers but are looking to upgrade, first look further up the model range from your manufacturer before heading elsewhere. 

1. Martin Logan Electrostatic

I think you either 'get' electrostatic speakers, or you don't... and I most definitely do! Pictured here are some ESL X models. Positioning is one of the things to consider, and outside of what can be a very narrow listening position, the sound is greatly compromised, so these are perhaps not for more casual listening. If you want to get the best from them, sit in one position and don't do anything else! At the economy end of the range, I reckon the Aeries I is a sweet spot. These ESL X versions move the game on considerably, while I currently have (and will never, ever sell!!!) a pair of Prodigy - otherworldy. Expect to pay... £700 for a good pair of Aeries I. £2700 for ESL X and £4000+ for Prodigy. 

2. ATC SCM11

ATC needs little introduction, and the SCM 11 comes up second hand regularly. Ideally you are after the S2 variant, with curved cabinet and metal grills. A really great looking standmount that sounds superb too, Expect to pay... £850

3. Magnepan 1.7i

Like electrostatic speakers, magneplanar speakers are also a unique experience. These Magnepan 1.7i examples sounds utterly sublime, but you'll need some space to house them and an understanding partner because they can visually dominate a room! Expect to pay... £1750+ 

4. LS3/5A - various!

If you are a fan of super compact standmount speakers, then the BBC spec LS3/5A generally stands above all others. Various companies had and have the licence to make them and they are all worth consideration. There are some extraordinary prices being achieved by early examples, but you don't need to spend that to understand what all the fuss is about. Here are some Rogers LS3/5A speakers which are at the more affordable end. Expect to pay... from £800  

5. Neat Majistra

Neat produces some lovely speakers and the Majistra seems expensive for what it is... until you hear it! One of the most impressive standmount speakers we've head. Expect to pay... £2400+

Others to consider...

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