The 6000s are good, but they are more of a compromise between style and sound, while the 4000s, 3s or 8000s will perform better for the price you pay. 4000s, 3s or 8000s are the best choice, the 3s and 8000s are more comparable, while the 4000 is a significant step down from the other two (although still great speakers).

I agree with others, BeoLab 8000s and a BeoSound 4 are a fantastic match. You can sure go for other systems from other brands, but they won't give you the same level of satisfaction overall and in the long run as B&O (at least, that's in my experience). Either BeoLab 3s, or BeoLab 8000s. 8000s can need support from a sub at times, while BL3s tend to

Swap the BeoLab 4s for BeoLab 4000s, 3s or 8000s! Same cost as buying the sub, but it'll sound better than BeoLab 4s + a sub. BeoLab 4s are great as link speakers, and great for rears in a small surround sound setup, or for use either side of a computer, but they are not very suited to hifi use. BeoLab 4000s are vastly more capable all round as speakers

The BeoSystem 7000 has 78 steps I believe, while the BeoSystem 5500 has a lot less (not sure of the exact figure). This would explain why you need to set the volume higher to get the same amount of sound. I have mine set to come on at 30.

So was I originally, however they do look very different in the flesh.

Agreed, but sometimes this isn't quite enough, and it can still end up sounding boomy. As Peter says though, there is a switch on the back to compensate for placement.

BeoSystem 7000, AV9000, CX100.

Try and avoid placing it right in a corner, as it can sound very boomy and O.T.T!

David: Maybe it's the ABR's being free that makes it possible to sounds so awesome outdoors, and keep a coherent level of bass. The sound muddles when you turn them up in a confined space. That goes for almost all speakers other than BeoLab 5s. However, I'm impressed that 3s managed to sustain a decent amount of bass outdoors.

First thing the Apple store manager (who knows me well) said to me when he saw me in the store today admiring the new iMacs was 'B&O ' They really are stunning computers. Think MacPro build quality, and comparably outstanding performance, all wrapped up in the nicest eye candy yet designed by Apple! Anybody else seen/used one yet?