I think the trick is to have a system that sounds full at a reasonable level.

[mac mini]

Everybody always ends up in the kitchen at parties so that works!

You're right about that. My living room is dedicated to the TV. It has a decent home theater set up but its never used for music. The family room has the stereo with no TV. I tried to talk my wife and the family in swapping positions hoping room dynamics would improve. It was shot down by everyone because we always listen to music at gatherings and seldom turn the TV on. And the speakers really sound good in the kitchen, where most of us are listening, standing, talking, eating, and drinking. I'm lucky to have a family that likes music.

 

[bluesky]

1970-1972 Sansui AS-100, 23" high, heavy box speakers, with AlNiCo magnets.

Sensitive adjustable tweet, 10 inch AlNiCo woofer.

Sounds like... big box speakers. Nice. You can get a pair for $65.