Hi, 18 months ago I splashed out on a new hi-fi system consisting of the Arcam A85 twinned with the P85 and the CD72T. I also opted for a pair of Kef Q5's (bi-amped) which I am now thinkig of trading. 1 small child appeared a while ago and her freinds have a fondness for pushing the cones in which I know I can overcome with teh covers, but they just don't look the same with these on; plus I have always found them quite bassy. I think bookshelfs(mounted) would now suit our space better, but am stuck on what / how much to look at. Has any one got any good sugegstions for the £300-500 mark, and also £500 mark that would suit my set up. I have been looking at the B&W 705's, and Dynaudio 52 SE's, but am not sure that I can really strectch to these sorts of cash, or that it is that necessary.

Appreciate anyones commenst on this.

Nick

Nick, I've got a pair of Quad 12L's with Arcam A80 amp and CD73 that I'm very pleased with.

I did initially miss the bass and warmth I'd got from a pair of big, but very old, Monitor Audio speakers. I solved this by adding a Rel Quake subwoofer.

I imagine that with a subwoofer you could get away with even smaller main speakers (eg Quad 11Ls).

I think a downward firing subwoofer would be relatively child proof.

I have a pair of PMC DB1+'s bookshelf speakers, which I can't fault, especially considering the size they are.

I use these with an Arcam AVR250 and DV79.

Transmission line stuff provides reasonable bass for such small cabinets, but I would agree, a fast subwoofer would provide any additional bottom end.

The DB1's also look better with the grilles on!!

I have just bought a pair of the B&W CM1 standmount / bookshelf speakers to partner my Arcam CD82 and A80 amplifier.

Previously I had a pair of floorstanding KEF Q3s and I can't get over the difference the B&Ws make considering they retail for £500. There's bags more detail and control, and punchy taut bass without it being overblown. I have an MJ Acoustics sub for when I fancy some pounding dance, but rarely feel the need to have it on.

Also, the front grilles are attached magnetically so it's easy to replace them when the kids are around :o)