I think that another contender that's being completely left out of the discussion is the Totem line in general, and in particular the Tabu, which originally retailed for 3000, but often can be seen a lot cheaper on A'gon used. This speaker images very well, has good tonality and surprisingly good bass. I'm pretty sure it's been discontinued, which is too bad. The Mani is the next step up, but is reportedly finicky about its electronics, plus it retails higher, and therefore would sell used higher.
Totem also makes some small floorstanders, which I haven't personally listened to, but have heard are good. These would have about the same footprint as a small monitor on a stand.
Totem also makes some small floorstanders, which I haven't personally listened to, but have heard are good. These would have about the same footprint as a small monitor on a stand.