I've continued my quest for a high performance, low cost system. I went back to tubes, they're the only way I can get to the pulse of the music. This system is a most revealing, yet musical system that is as confortable with voice as with orchestral music or (Gasp...Rock and Roll!).. In my smallish room the system rocks, although the Zephyrs do boom ever so slightly. The Cary / AES electronics are the key..they give life to the system and don't let their age fool you, this system is as as musical as my former $8500 system. I think I'd like to try some Alon or Proac speakers, but that would definately kill the $3000 target. Getting a used pair of Reference 3a De Capos would make this system long term keeper. I like where this system is going...just added a near mint AR ES-1/SME3009III/Denon 160 HO MC turntable to play through the Cary's tube phono stage. Doesn't get much better at this price! The Thrill is back! Still listening to this system with amazement. Happy as ever. Thr triangle Zephyrs are singing nicely now and do present a somewaht Deep soundstage. Have a hint of "Horn-like resonance, but for $700! and near full range these are really quite nice. I will probably get itchy for another speaker, but these have been one of the most satisfying in a while. System overall is musical sweet and with the AEs SE-1 running 300B's..its quite powerful in my 10 x 14 room. Love the anologue front end as well.