THE BEST SMALL SPEAKERS

As a usual disclaimer, it may depend on your budget, preference of music, current system, upgrade path you have in mind, etc. I would say Superzeros and a matching sub would do the job around 1K. As someone noted, B&W DM601 2S plus a Monitor Audio sub can give you something close to full range around 1.1K. But, what I like is B&W CDM1 or Vienna Acoustics Haydn and a sub although I do not believe you will need a sub with those speakers for a small to mid size room. With those speakers, timbre matching problem may be more prominent, so need to be more careful in selecting a sub (though I think a monitor Audio would do the job without breaking your bank). The aforementioned speakers are popular, so it may sound cliche. Neverthelss, they perform reasonably well with various systems ranging from entry level to mid end (or well enough with the insanely expensive) such that you may have more flexibility in your upgrade in electronics and front ends (up to a certain level). Although I love the exquisite sound of Vienna Acoustics, B$W offers more flexibility unlike other small hi end manufacturers since it is not too difficult to build a reasonable HT system around CDM1 with other B&W's. In other words, a safe bet they are. If you are willing to spend more than 3K, no need to seek a second opinion -- it will be a matter of your preference in entirety in that price range. :) My opinion is based on an assumption that you listen to Classical. I can appreciate hard rock or metal without extended bass, but I just can't fully enjoy Classical without exquisite details, tonal balance, presentation, etc..

Try the ProAc Response 1scs. Many are available and they have a good resale value. I have a pair matched with an Aleph 3 and in our rather small living room they sound incredable. Totem 1s are also very good, and currently own a pair, but in my view the ProAc sounds better and of the two would be my first choice. Don't know much about the Sanus Fabers yet but they are worth researching. Keep in mind good stands are a must, Atlantis Reference or Target, sand or shot filled. Happy hunting.

NHT zeros and sub. These sound great with proper placement.

I don't know about the best, but for the price it's hard to beat a pair of NHT Super Ones (sorry guys I have a pair for sale on this site) and a sub. Legacy Audio makes a very good small speakes, their studio speaker thats worth a listen!

Bsm: The guys who mentioned Sonus Faber are right on track. I own a pair of the Electa Amatours (originals). They are truly awesome & as full range as you can get for a monitor along with being fairly efficient too (88db 1 watt @1 meter, 8 ohms, nominal 6-1/2 ohms). These have become a classic of which many use as a standard to compare monitors. Do get the orignals, not the II's. The originals have the famous esotar 330 silk dome tweeters. Extremely musical yet detailed & deserve the very best of electronics.