R1850db

For 200€ you could get very nice headphones and corrective/room-simulation software like Realphones 2. That would be my recommendation. You won't find "proper studio monitors" for that price. I'll be downvoted for this recommendation, but at that price you could be fine with a pair of Edifier R1850d

Have you been able to try the new planar VSX headphone? I like headphone correction tech, and room simulation tech. I've had a good experience with Waves Nx, Sonarworks SoundID Reference (and the virtual room add on), and especially Realphones which I favor. Your advice is tempting, because I'm a ge

You need to specify active or passive speakers. If you get active (powered) speakers you can connect them directly to the turntable. If you get passive speakers, you will need an amplifier in between the turntable and the speakers. Edifier are popular for budget active speakers, but I would look for

A pair of Kali LP-6s would be ideal studio monitors for you -- but it's out of budget. That would be like $500... So what about the Kali LP-UNF? (Ultra nearfields) ... Smaller speakers, but a good neutral tonal balance... These would pair well with good headphones, and the low end wouldn't blow out

It seems like you're in a circle of doubt: "What is the best solution?" Obviously the best is a perfectly treated room with high end monitors paired with an equally high-quality headphone... But that's a useless answer to anyone for whom that is unattainable! So.... You already have VSX so just lear

Personally I'd go for the Edifiers. I own DM40's which I bought for like half their MSRP used, I'd say they're worth that much but they're not super impressive. They have a tendency to be particularly boomy in certain bass frequencies in quite an unpleasant way, I think it's because they're attempti

I am a big fan of Edifier's offerings. The R1850DB might fit the requirements depending on your available space. Not too big, but the Edifier sound is incredible IMO.

Good shortlist! Of those, I'd lean toward the Edifier R1280DB for your use case. Dialog clarity is where it really shines, setup is dead simple, and it connects directly via optical or Bluetooth so no fussing with extra boxes. The R1850DB is a step up in power but probably overkill for a living room

You could look at the Edifier R1850DB. Not quite as pretty as the MR4 but it does support other powered subs. I've got a Kanto Sub6 running with mine.