No problem. I would be interested in the Fostex FE126EN option. Thanks Arnaud!

Man, you guys really hate my HL5s don't you? 

To clarify a few things...the space they're in right now is absolute, 100% shit. The new apartment will be much better (and I plan to treat it as well as I can). Move in day can't get here fast enough. It's not a good representation of what this system is capable of.

As for being a brand nerd...I'm still not 100% clear on what you guys are getting at there. I don't like change and I like a clear upgrade path, but if I hear something better in my personal system and I can get it...I'll get that...Whether it's a 'brand I'm familiar with' or not. (I also talk a lot of shit about upgrade plans but it's mostly pipe dreams as I don't have money to throw around like that)

I have decided that I will not buy stuff blind anymore though, so my buys will be somewhat limited to what I have the power to audition. Hoping to get my hands on LFD, Bryston, Parasound and some Simaudio stuff when it comes time to upgrade.

One thing I will definitely say though is this system is colored. Very much so...and I like it. It's toe tappin' and fun...and that's why I bought it. It's at the completely opposite end of the spectrum from my 009 rig and I enjoy both.

I am starting the think the Leben probably isn't the right choice though. TheWuss (HF) seems to really enjoy his new LFD and so do a couple of guys over at SH so that's a serious consideration down the line.

Either way, the whole DIY kit thing has piqued my interest.

EDIT: I did also audition quite a few speakers before choosing these at multiple locations I could get to around town. I talked mainly about my auditions at Whetstone but I also heard stuff from about twice as many brands from other shops. None did what I wanted as well as the HL5 and that was give me good bass without a sub. I also trust my ears a lot more than I trust Brian, just FYI. I like what I like, it just happened to be what he liked as well.

Thanks for the info. It's definitely a priority in the new place. No room mates to bitch about it and a much better space this time.

And another vote for LFD. They're definitely at the top of the audition list right now. The simplicity really hits the nail on the head for me.

Speaking of diffusers I've been making my own using the bbc schematic.




I got 5 of 8 done right now.  Honestly they're more for aesthetics than actual acoustics.  Two sets of 4 in groups-- each group having one each made from walnut, naturally grown heart redwood (impossible to get nowdays), pine and whitewood.