Revel
 

I've enjoyed the Revel sound for years and currently own the Studio2.
All speakers have their own "sound" but Revel is the most neutral of the bunch. I guess I've heard dozen's or hundreds of brands and models of "home hifi" speakers. They all have their own coloration, some good some bad, but colorations nonetheless. Not Revel. Dead Neutral IMHO.
The original Studio and Salon are fabulous speakers but there appearance is a love'em or hate'em proposition which probably did a lot to diminish Revels popularity while brands like B&W and Sonus flourished.
The reviews are "over the top" on the current Revel Ultima2 lineup.
The Salon2 and Studio2 are probably the best neutral sounding speaker currently available.
The Salon2 is worth the trip from anywhere to hear.
Harman Specialty Group

I too have read the stellar reviews on the revel line-up. Although its been a real challenge to try and find a dealer who sells them so I can have a listen.

I have been looking for the last 6 months to find a dealer that has the Levinson line (looking at the 532 or 53 amps) and Revel line (Salon 2) on display for demo. The closest I have come too is David Lewis Audio in Philadelphia, who has the levinson stuff but is waiting for the Revels to arrive. From what I have read, the synergy between the 2 is outstanding (not surprising since they are both under Harman).

In year listening process. what electroncis did you hear them with?

I heard the Studio 2's at Take 5 Audio in New Haven CT paired with Ayre and McIntosh.
I actually liked the Ayre pairing better.

Revel Studio 2's got another great review in this month's Stereophile.

Of course the Elitist Audiophile's turn their noses up at products like Revel, Levinson, McIntosh, B&W and Wilson because they must produce dull products since they are too big and no longer produced out of their garages.

Wpines, what do you mean in the first post about a love 'em or hate 'em vis a vis the other brands if the Revels are so neutral? Do you mean they reveal flaws in the electronics or recordings that would be masked by coloration?

I'll have to try to track down a dealer here for a listen. Their website lists what seem more like home theater outfits that don't have showrooms, although I may be wrong with one or two of them.

I was referring to the APPEARANCE of the original Salon 1 and Studio 1. The sound of the originals has gained accolades throughout the audio community. The appearance, for many, was a non-starter.
The appearance of the current series mahogany Salon 2 and Studio 2 is very elegant.

Ain't that the truth. I've voted with my $$$$$. McIntosh and Revel.

Their is also an upcoming review of the Salon2's by Soundstage

Here's the Soundstage.com review of the Salon 2's: SoundStage! Equipment Review - Revel Ultima Salon2 Loudspeakers (12/2009)

They received a Soundstage Reviewer's Choice Award.