I would throw the Energy Veritas 2.3i's into the mix. I started out to buy a pair of B&W 803's and came home with these.
Also, some of my new favorites are the Ushers, but in the price range you seem to be looking at it would have to be one of their six series and I've only heard the C's, but how sweet they were. Love my 2.3i's, but can't get that Usher sound off my mind. The C's are probably out of my reach as well, but if the six series sound nearly as good I will be changing speakers yet again.
BTW, I used to own the 2Ce's and know exactly what your talking about, this is why I sold mine. IMO they lack severely in dynamic's when turned up anywhere past low to moderate listening levels. They earned the name Vandersweets. Too sweet IMO.
Also, some of my new favorites are the Ushers, but in the price range you seem to be looking at it would have to be one of their six series and I've only heard the C's, but how sweet they were. Love my 2.3i's, but can't get that Usher sound off my mind. The C's are probably out of my reach as well, but if the six series sound nearly as good I will be changing speakers yet again.
BTW, I used to own the 2Ce's and know exactly what your talking about, this is why I sold mine. IMO they lack severely in dynamic's when turned up anywhere past low to moderate listening levels. They earned the name Vandersweets. Too sweet IMO.