With a budget of <$1K, many options suggested here are taken off the table.
From my years in this hobby, if I was shopping for speakers at $1K used, my first choice would be the best deal I could find on Vandersteen 1 or 2. Various versions were produced for each model so I would look for the latest available.
Not everyone is a fan of the Vandy sound, some find it muffled and/or without high end detail and extension. Others of us find it to offer realistic treble information without false brightness. One main advantage with all Vandys is the lack of cabinet colorations, a specific objective in Richard's designs. They also offer solid bass response at their respective price points.
Some may argue with this point but I believe Vandys must be placed away from the front and side walls to sound their best. When positioned properly, they can sound good with some modest electronics, but reward the owner with every upgrade. With proper set up and decent electronics, they can be one of the most open and uncolored systems I know of.
From my years in this hobby, if I was shopping for speakers at $1K used, my first choice would be the best deal I could find on Vandersteen 1 or 2. Various versions were produced for each model so I would look for the latest available.
Not everyone is a fan of the Vandy sound, some find it muffled and/or without high end detail and extension. Others of us find it to offer realistic treble information without false brightness. One main advantage with all Vandys is the lack of cabinet colorations, a specific objective in Richard's designs. They also offer solid bass response at their respective price points.
Some may argue with this point but I believe Vandys must be placed away from the front and side walls to sound their best. When positioned properly, they can sound good with some modest electronics, but reward the owner with every upgrade. With proper set up and decent electronics, they can be one of the most open and uncolored systems I know of.