Hi Nick
I think the larger clamps are the later models. I myself prefer to see as much of the disc spinning as possible!
Also, don't think you have to stick with active speakers (Beolabs that have their own amplifiers inside them) They can be connected to any power amp to drive any passive speakers.
I have a Beocentre 2300 connected to a Quad 405-2 amp and Beovox MS150 speakers. I don't think I will ever want anything else!
Cheers
Nigel