Help choosing direction
Hi everyone,
I’m a bit at a crossroads and could use some experienced perspectives before going further down a path that might not be optimal long‑term.
Current gear
Amplifier: Marantz PM6007
Streamer: WiiM Pro Plus
Current speakers: Xanadu AW‑11 (older, inherited)
Subwoofer (just ordered): Arendal 1723 1S
I was choosing between Arendal 1723 1S, SVS SB‑3000, and KEF KC62
Secondary system inherited: Full vintage Pioneer 608 system (amp, tuner, tape deck, speakers)
How I listen
Music first, but hybrid use:
Hi‑Fi listening
DJ mixing / electronic music production
Home theater (2.1 / 2.1+ rather than full surround)
Genres: almost everything, but electronic music dominates lately
Listening positions:
Couch (TV listening)
Desk is next to the TV (nearfield possible in the future)
The dilemma
I want to invest correctly, not impulsively.
I want:
High‑fidelity music playback
Trustworthy sound for mixing / DJ work
Strong low‑end & scale for movies (but this more secondary)
Future‑proof choices (no sideways upgrades)
Avoid buying things twice
But I realize these goals pull in different directions.
Speaker paths I’m considering
Neumann KH120 II
KEF LS50 Meta
KEF R3 Meta
But are they honest enough for production work?
- Other directions
ATC SCM19?
PMC?
Anything I’m missing that truly balances:
Hi‑fi
Mixing accuracy
Home listening pleasure
Subwoofer angle
I went with the Arendal 1723 1S because:
Strong low extension
Seemed more “home‑theater capable” long‑term
But I’m still open to discussion:
Was that smarter than SB‑3000?
Overkill for music?
Best pairing philosophy with monitors vs hi‑fi speakers?
Key questions
What should be the deciding factor here:
listening enjoyment vs production accuracy vs room fill? I kind of want both.
Is a hybrid system realistic, or should I clearly separate:
monitors at the desk
hi‑fi speakers at the couch?
Given what I already own, what would you upgrade next:
speakers?
amplifier?
keep two systems?
I’m not chasing brand hype — just trying to make sane, long‑term decisions.
Any insights from people who’ve walked similar paths (studio → hi‑fi, or vice versa) would be hugely appreciated.
Thanks!
Posted Apr 7, 2026, 11:25 AM UTC