best or craziest speakers' design..

Second the Gallos for unusual. Most people find horns of all types interesting looking, and for some reason they tend to encourage cabinetmakers to strut their stuff. I think the Cain & Cains are interesting-looking (never heard them). FWIW, I think you could probably find used Avantgarde Duos in your price range as well.

Any of the Gallo Reference line. I have MKII. I heard MKIII the other day at the dealer. They sounded very similar. You can't go wrong either way. The tweeters will reveal anything bright in your system. The bass and soundstage will suprise you. boxless sound.

Rethm. Very futuristic kinda cool looking. Rethm.com

Jeff
Thank you so much for the link. I just emailed it to my wife and she will never again object to any speaker I consider, being so grateful that I didn't buy those:) She probably will start praying that we never win the lottery just so I could never afford them. But man are they cool!

Jeffrey, that is awesome. You win, hands down.

Now c'mon up here and accept your award.
Say a few words...please...tell what inspired you to track down such a creature....