[Jagman]

I've spent about 6 hours on 4 different occasions auditioning the 1038's. My overall impressions are very positive. They are very dynamic, fast and lively speakers. They are on the opposite end of laid back. Still, they are very musical and fun speakers. All things that I really enjoy in a speaker. During each listening session however there has been a few times where the highs were a bit bothersome to me. The speakers are demos and I would consider them pretty broken in. My concern is that they would become fatiguing over time. The other concern is that the real deal on these is in the black ash low luster finish vs the other gorgeous finishes offered.
My short list speakers up to now have been used Bowers 802 Diamonds, 803 Di's, Wilson Sophia and Sasha. The new options were Vandersteen Treo's and Wilson Sabrina's. I have ruled out all either due to cost, (Sabrina's, Sasha's), or preference, (Treos, 803D's), with only the pre-owned 802's left.
Added to my final list are a pair of new Aeiral 7T's. I have violated a rule of mine by adding them to the list; I've not heard them. Still I'm interested and more than a little tempted to take the leap of faith based on glowing reviews, the overwhelming opinion of how musical and non fatiguing they are, and I'd be lying if If I didn't admit I've also been seduced by what I consider to be the most aesthetically pleasing speakers I've seen. Plus, their size, while still being a solid full ranger fits the shared family room where they would reside perfectly. I also admit than their longstanding position on Stereophiles recommended speakers list has my attention. But again I haven't heard them. I'm posting this in the Focal forum in hopes of gazing a more clear perspective as it relates to the Electras and the 7T's before I make a decision as soon as this coming week. I appreciate any input.