New, small speakers for gallery space

[Depthgrammar]

Hey all - question for a friend here. What would everyone recommend in terms of a smallish speaker for ceiling mounting in a gallery space? It has to be something available new, not vintage or second hand. Something relatively full sounding for a decent sized space (we're not expecting miracles), and not too fussy about placement, as it would likely be moved around depending on the exhibition. So - desktop to bookshelf size, but not nearfield only. And there is an amplifier there, but powered is apparently also ok.

From my reading, small Elacs, Daytons, the Andrew Jones Pioneers, Wharfdale Diamonds, and Kefs all came to mind, but I have no firsthand experience of any of these, and no idea how they'd fare in this situation. Anyone have any recommendations? Had success with a particular model in a retail space, say, or a restaurant? Entertaining suggestions at different price points too. Thanks!

 

[Rick Z]

Elac also make some specifically for wall mounting. You might want to check those out.

 

[BMWCCA]

JBL powered LSR305 or newer 305P MkII. You'll spend about $200 or so, they have two amps inside each speaker, and if you have long runs, the balanced connectors will make that work. They will fill a space with a large sound stage from the wave-guides, and their bass extension is downright spooky for something so small. If you must hang them though, you'll have to figure that out for yourself. As long as they're out of the way of prying fingers you won't miss their lack of grilles and their design should fit in with any stylish gallery. Compare them to others like the Andrew Jones Pioneers and you'll see the Pioneers are just what they look like, very nice (cheap) little speakers. But nothing to write home about. Believe me, I have a pair, and put them back in their boxes. The JBLs punch way beyond anyone's expectations for size and price.