These are about half the price and everyone seems to love them. Might be worth a shot, not much to lose.
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=133256.0Here is a quote
"I had Ruben of Out of the Woods build 4 GR Research XLS Encore speakers. Originally, I ordered the kits, including no-rez and tube connectors from Danny, and planned to build them myself. After some 'false starts', I realized that they were not going to turn out satisfactorily if I built them, so I had Ruben build them in satin black. Of course, he did an excellent job, and I'm much happier with the results compared to what I could have done myself. Plus he is near me. So after receiving them, I swapped them in place of my LS9s, temporarily mounted on cardboard boxes at approximate ear height. I guess my initial reaction was total shock in how good these 'little' XLS speakers sound! "
I believe Ruben is charging $505.00 for a new pair with all the best parts completed
