Deepseed, consider this: the price you're alotting for speakers does not appear to have the monitor stands figured into the equation. This is a very major ($) wise factor and sound factor, as well. Stands are a fundemental extension of your speakers. Think about this, when figuring out your budget. Hey, I own the M20s listing for about $2k. I spent $1000 on my stands. Read my review. You, certainly, don't have to go that way, but great stands (and there aren't many) are not cheap or easy to find used. FWIW: Starsound Technologies, where I bought my speakers, has a new, less expensive monitor stand that is gorgeous,very different and amazing in its' resonance transferring abilities. Call Robert, over there. He be da man. You're on your way. peace, warren