So I'm looking at the different traditional "box"-style floorstander kits from GR. The A/V-3, X-SLS Encore, X-MTM encore, and the N3 (provided I can find somewhere that will sell me just the Neo3 tweeter deep back cups).
I need something that's good for a crappy room (combined living/dining/entry room), can be placed fairly close to the front wall (12-18" from rear baffle to wall), 8 ohm impedance and relatively high efficiency (roughly 90 dB or better). Unfortunately, anything open-baffle is out of the question due to space constraints. The speakers get pulled out and pushed back every time I listen, and we have a little dog that likes to play on the rug in front of the speakers, so standmounts are also not an option.
I plan on using these with my
DIY MyRef RevC, Fisher 500C (P-P tube, 25-30 WPC), as well as a 25wpc SS DIY Class A design in the future, like a Pass Aleph J. Hence the requirement for higher efficiency, 8 ohm speakers. Also can't rule out a DIY SET tube amp in my future, although I know that may require even higher efficiency speakers than those in question here.
From what I've read all of the above (A/V-3, X-SLS Encore, X-MTM encore, and the N3, which is unfortunately not on Danny's new site) could fit the bill. So besides the obvious, (i.e. different tweeters, the X-SLS uses 1 mid-woofer vs the X-MTM's 2 mid-woofers), what are the differences in sound (frequency response and soundstage/imaging), components, construction difficulty, specs, etc? And are there any other possible contenders from GR research that I'm overlooking?
I have a fair amount of experience building DIY audio electronics. And I installed Danny's upgrade kit in my Insignia NS-B2111 book shelves. But this will be my first time building DIY speakers. My BIL is an experienced woodworker though, and I'll have his help with the cabinets. So together I think we should be able to get through it ok.
Thanks!