Mackie 824 vs Dynaudio BM 5A

bm5a is more detailed/neutral

mackie sounds fuller/warmer

Been there, done that. IMHO small mixing monitors work better for nearfield listening and smaller spaces. I did not like the sound for my HT - the sweet spot was too small and there wasn't enough dynamic range to make a good presentation.

If you are really determined to use active monitors then I feel that there are really only two good alternatives: Meridian and PMC. Are you looking for 5+ channels, or two-channel only? You could probably do used PMC for <$2K; Meridian would be tough.

Or... multi-channel HT amps are pretty cheap. get a pair of semi-efficient mini monitors and call it a day. I like VS-1s but there are a ton of other great options.

Also consider an ADAM A7. I would definitely complement any of these with a subwoofer, since studio monitors don't really have the bass volume and extension necessary for HT.