I like the 8000's a lot but I do not think they are the best value. As always I must say that I am a big fan of Meridian and like the people who work there very much. I have had the pleasure of spending quite a bit of time with the 8K's and a 800 as a CD transport and controller. They sound very good. But IMHO you can get much better sound with something like Dunlavy SC-V speakers and a good amp for half the price. I would encourage to listen and see for your self. I must say that the 8K's look very nice but if you close your eyes and listen, you will see a much better "value" with the Dunlavy speakers. If the price was a bit more down to earth for the 8K's or if and when Meridian takes the technology that is in the 8K's and puts that into a more reasonably priced speaker it will be much easier for me to recommend. But if you are looking for the best sound you can get, and I assume that is why you are looking at the 8K's then I would look at the SC-V's.

Hope this helps.

Al

7.1 system 568.2 (mm installed but not used) DSP5500 L&R, DSP5500C Center, DSP33's sides and rear. Pioneer Elite PRO-620HD monitor.