[mambo12]

Appreciate some recommendations for passive speakers. I like a wide soundstage and listen to alot of rock, pop and jazz.
 
I tried the audioengine A5+ but felt that I really needed to add a sub to fully enjoy them. And if I'm gonna add a sub, then perhaps I should just consider passive speakers instead.
 
I've read alot abt the wharfedale diamond 121 but unfortunately have no opportunity here in the States to demo them. Budget: <$500 for a pair Appreciate it!

 

[calaf]

you may want to consider the Diamond 10.1 or even better the 10.2 instead of the 121. They look so much better than the current "cheap plywood box" 100 series.
Music Direct carries them and has a 30 day return policy
http://www.musicdirect.com/p-15476-wharfedale-diamond-101-bookshelf-speaker-pr.aspx
http://www.musicdirect.com/p-15479-wharfedale-diamond-102-bookshelf-speakers-pr.aspx
 
With the 10.1 (which I currently own and like much better than the Audioengine A5 they replaced) I suspect you will need a sub, with the 10.2 probably not.

 

[mambo12]

any recommendations?
 
can't decide between the following:
 
Boston Acoustics A26
Monitor Audio BX2
Wharfedale 10.1/10.2

 

[dioxholster]

PSB alpha b1 or PSB image B4, Paradigm Atom. Wharfedale and usher s520.
 
but with the list you have i would say to go with Monitor Audio Bronze BX2.

 

[trog]

A couple of years back i did audition speakers from both sides of the atlantic but to be honest in the USA, Brit speakers are priced out of whack For example Diamond 10.2s go for 200 pounds in the UK!
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0032B0KGI/ref=olp_product_details?ie=UTF8&me=&seller=
 
If Frys is an option here are Polk LSi7s going for $200
http://www.frys.com/product/3586944?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG
 
Stereophile Review (was priced $820/pair at time of review)
http://www.stereophile.com/standloudspeakers/795/index.html

 

[cel4145]

I run Ascend Acoustics CBM-170 SEs in my desktop setup with HK 3390, ODAC, and Mirage Prestige S10. Ascend Acoustics is an Internet direct speaker company, and thus has better pricing than most traditional speaker vendors.

The 170s work well for nearfield use because they have a neutral response. They are well know for their transient response, too, giving them excellent midbass with the 6.5" drivers. Most of the time I just leave my sub turned off.