I would also consider a trial of the Ohm Acoustics Walsh 1000s. Assuming an 8' ceiling, this is the appropriate model for your room. I am just at the end of my 4-month in-home trial on a pair of the 2000s (also within your budget, but not necessary). You can check out this unsual design at ohmspeakers.com. The entire Walsh series sounds very similar, with the design scaled for different room volumes. Breifly, I have found these speakers to excel in many areas, especially timbre, freedom from congestion, detail reproduction, soundstage width and freedom from glare and grain. Excellent customer service, and designed and built in the U.S.A. Also, see the thread "Ohm Walsh Micro Talls: who's actually heard 'em?" in the speaker forum. (I have no affiliation with Ohm Acoustics).
Best new or used speakers for under 3K?
I am redoing my sound system and am looking for new main speakers. The center, surrounds, and a good sub will come later. For now I want to focus on high quality mains. I have already received the Integra DHC 9.9 pre/pro and the B&K 200.7 amp is on the way. I want to run a 5.1 system bi-amping the mains. I have been looking hard at the PSB Synchrony One's and the cheapest I have found them is about $3,600 +S/H. I need some suggestions from you guys. My room is about 12' X 14'.