As above, I agree that Vandersteens are very good, especially for the price (but no veneer). I've heard the Totem Hawk which I liked as well, but if I were buying in your price range I might take a look at (used) Meadowlark Shearwater Hotrods. On second thought, maybe not, as their carbon fibre woofers are best when used with tubes somewhere upstream.
Good luck!
Good luck!