They were Mana Soundbases, Chris, spiked into the floor - not pretty, but very effective

I can tell you from experience that those bases were one of the reasons why the speakers worked so well in the hotel room at Scalford - the 'unsung heros', if you like....

If they'd have just been plonked on the floor, they'd have sounded crap and boomed like hell!

I think the other versions of the 66 look great, but I do wonder if they sound as good as the originals, as they don't seem to be held in such 'reverence' worldwide, or have the enviable reputation and cult following of the originals?

It would be interesting to do a comparison. Ultimately, I'll always settle for 'ugly' looks (although the 66's look pretty nice with their grilles on) and stunning sound over 'gorgeous' looks and average/mediocre sound.

At the end of the day, for me, all hi-fi equipment is simply a tool for reproducing music, not merely ornaments to be admired.

Marco.