I had stats and planars.

I had Martin Logan Aerius, Aeons, and Ascents. Tried CLSII and Odyssey as well.

I agree, stats are good but when you own one, it's like saying bye bye to tube amps! I tried Cary V12, MR 100(?) and ARC VT200 to name a few. Midrange sounds great, but bass becomes the Achilles heel. Mermaid cliche comes to mind. SS with planars is the way to go (I had Threshold, Plinius, Odyssey monos, ML 331, etc.). It helps the speed of the cone woofers a little bit, but still not on par, to the speed of the electrostats.

Nearfield listening though, is a blast!

Sad to say, I only have a few photos of my old system (Ascents, Circa 2003-2004). It was the same time I thought "Audiogon" was the only game in town.

Is that Chicago South Side? I can't believe that South Side of Chicago looks like that now! Used to be just U of C, Soldier Field (if I am not mistaken?), and nothing (well there are somethings but probably not worth mentioning because I can't remember any at the moment). Oprah did very well huh! I use to live in Lakeshore Drive, then to Addison. Still (thank God!)own a couple of places out there (Along Barry, and Surf Street).

regards,

Abe