I am thinking about upgrading my nearfield computer set-up. Currently, I have a Peachtree Decco2 and AV123 ELT-525 speakers. I think my electronics will end up being a Rotel amp paired with a Burson HA-160D for headphones and DAC duties. The speakers are where I am having trouble.
At one point I was certain to go with the newer Ascend Sierra-1 NrT. Reviews seem to be positive and I know that they have long, positive history here on AH. However, I really don't fancy the looks. The drivers and cabinets don't do it for me. Further, with the NrT upgrade, they are getting up there, I think around 1300 a pair.
Another option that I am heavily considering is the B&W CM5. Absolutely gorgeous. They would end up being slightly more expensive, but they certainly look it. There aren't nearly as many reviews out there and the ones that I have found are "different" than the Sierra reviews. While most of the Sierra reviews talk about it dominating its price bracket (at that time, sub $1k), the B&W reviews generally say it performs well within its price bracket (sub $2k bookshelves).
So I am kind of lost. Its going to be a 100% music application, likely with no sub. I am just having a hard time comparing the top-of-the-line offering from an ID company to the lower end offering of a venerable company such as B&W.
Any thoughts would be appreciated!