Why the LS50s?
Measures well - This is a basic requirement for most of the equipment I have been adding over the past few years. I know there are some poorly measured equipment that sound just fine, but I would rather not risk it. This speaker was reviewed by JA on Stereophile and Audioscience Review and they came to the same results..this speaker has a great design and measures well if you have the proper amplification and/or room isn't too big (which could push them past their limits).
Small - Any speaker coming into my office space would need to be around the same size as my NHTs, if not smaller. These are very similar in size, so they fit on my desk in the exact same spot as the NHTs without moving anything around.
Sound great- most people reviewing these just by ear also appreciate the sound. Obviously, tastes differ, but in general, they got good subjective reviews. For example, the "Audiophiliac" put them on his best speaker for 2020 list.
Look Fantastic - These may not be for everyone, some prefer the classic box speaker approach, but next to modern audio/video products, in my opinion, they look incredible.
Possible Downsides that I considered
Sub - Many believe that they need a sub.
Need. Power - Not the best for low wattage amps.
Could I get something smaller - It might be possible to get a smaller speaker which would fit even better in the space.
Final Assessments
The sub does help with the very low notes, but all in all, I think I could live without it without much problem. To integrate the sub properly, I used the Audyssey MultEQ XT32 software and just adjusted the volume down a bit to taste.
The Metas also have great imaging for a near field setup. It was actually surprising how spread out the soundstage is from such a close listening position. They are very clean and clear sounding with exceptional instrument separation.
As for going with a smaller speaker, time has told me that the speakers I buy for one space today may end up in another room tomorrow. As I mentioned, I bought the NHTs for my main living room, but they found their way to my Office setup, my bedroom, and in a vintage Marantz setup in the living room. The Monitor Audio Silver RS6 speakers are now in my bedroom, but were initially. purchased for the living room. Speakers just end up moving around. The NHTs will move to my bedroom and the Insignia (I think was the brand) speakers I was using for surround sound will move to the sunroom.
As a result, I wanted something I could put in any room and be happy with them. For my bedroom, as one example, most smaller speakers would not give me the sound I want. These would be a great choice for a bedroom or a living room (if I downsize down the road).
All in all, I am extremely happy with this addition to my space. It sounds fantastic and has me listening to more music in that space than I have in a while.