Well, I'm on the verge of a major step up...might as well convey it here:
1. For the past 8-9 months, I've been running a pair of Zenpro-modded Yamaha HS7 powered monitors (fed by a balanced cable coming from a single-ended-to-balanced converter, necessary because my whole system is wired single-ended).
2. These monitors are superb for the low-volume listening that I do 95% of the time in home office. They're very clear, accurate-sounding.
3. However, when I crank them up, issues happen: these vented monitors are too close to the back wall (by necessity)...so bass can sound tubby. Also, these monitors tend to sound a little "clangy"/"shouty" in the upper midrange, which makes loud-volume listening less than ideal. In all fairness, when I had them burning in (different room with more space between them & back wall), I really didn't hear either issue...
Anyway, for some time I've been scheming how to fit passive speakers + a stereo amp into this space-constrained system. Finally figured out how to do it (I got a high-quality used class D amp, and will place it on its side to save space). All the necessary cables are on order.
Re passive speakers (unlike powered monitors) there are countless passive 2-way designs out there. Most are general audio quality; some are pricey "audiophile"/high-end designs; and a few are accuracy-oriented studio monitors. As usual for speakers these days, most passive 2-ways are vented designs (which I don't want); but a few are sealed designs--which I do want, for better compatibility w/my space-constrained environment.
For some time I've been interested in ATC, the British company. Their powered monitors were too large, expensive & heavy for my desktop. However, they make passive consumer 2-ways, a couple of which have gotten glowing reviews in the high-end audio press years. The ATC consumer model that fits my desktop is the ATC SCM11 version 2. Problem is it costs $2,500 new (!!), too rich for my blood--and only comes up F.S. rarely.
- But the "professional" version of this speaker (identical drivers & crossover in a slightly larger, not as pretty cabinet) is the ATC SCM12 Pro. It's a little big for my desktop, but I can make it fit. Just scored a used pair yesterday, arriving this Tuesday. Was really lucky to find them.
I'll have this whole thing wired together mid-week, and very eager to hear what it sounds like. I've never had passive 2-ways in my desktop, only powered ones. This will be an adventure. My goal is to get a passive system that plays just as well @low-volume as the Yamahas, but also sound terrific when cranked.