B&W or Energy or Klipsch Reference

[Irishman]

I'm thinking about an upgrade to my home theater (currently Klipsch Reference RB51s up front, Polk S4s (gift from my brother in law) for surrounds, and a Yamaha POS center channel placeholder.

I've got it narrowed down to 3 brands and 3 speaker models:

Here are the finalists:

B&W 684
B&W HTM62

Energy CF-70
Energy CC-10

Klipsch RF82 II
Klipsch RC52 OR RC62

I've done demos, A-B'd them to death, and I still can't decide. I'm experiencing a little analysis paralysis. I know B&W has the great audiophile reputation, but I think I was more impressed by their CM series, of which I could probably buy a set of CM5's and be done with my budget! Energy and Klipsch seemed more similar than different to me. I like the build and look of Klipsch Reference (hence why I bought the RB51s a couple years back).

My listening habits? About 40% HT, 25% 2 channel from CD, and 35% TV.

I'm putting it to the forum....if it were your cash to spend, of these stated choices only, what would you go for in your home and why?

 

[backstept]

I'd go with the ones that look the coolest.

 

[Irishman]

So, sound not a big consideration for ya? :P

 

[Saturn0660]

I'd go B&W all the way.
I think those will give you the best over all sound covering everything.

I like Klipsch and all... But to me they sound like shit on most kinds of music. They almost seem "tuned" for Home Theater use.

 

[TheSeeker]

I've had a pair of B&W 802s since about 96 and I have been very happy with them.

 

[backstept]

So, sound not a big consideration for ya? :P

well, in my opinion, the speakers on your list are all above average in quality, so any difference in sound between them would be negligible

which is ironic because I'm a live sound hobbyist
I mean . . . anything's gotta sound better than Mackie 'sound-on-a-stick' powered speakers :P

 

[Mr. B]

Consider posting this query on AVSForum/Audiokarma/Head-Fi. You are much more likely to encounter someone who has actual experience with one or more of your selections.

 

[Irishman]

Thanks, Mr. B.

I already posted on AVS. Member there as well.

The votes tended to give the edge to the B&W, but only barely.