Paradigm Atoms and their Mini Monitors are wonderful small speakers that provide obscene value to price. Made in China of Canadian design, they are very inexpensive and have beautiful mid-range. I can also recommend stepping up to Vandersteen 1cs mentioned here--been around forever, a true classic, and one of the most efficient speakers out there. Almost any solid state and most tube amps can make those sing. If you have a solid state amp of 75 watts, you should also consider the ATC 7s. Pro studio quality--will slay anything listed above.
Please help a Novice
I have an old Technics 100W x 2 stereo receiver that I plan on upgrading in the near future (Christmas). For now I would like to buy a pair of speakers for music listening and watching a little tv in my bedroom. I want to know what would be some good entry-level speakers that would accommodate my needs. Lately, I have been leaning towards buying a pair of floor-standing speakers since space isn't a big issue and would like some more bottom end bass. I listen to all types of rock music from very easy listening to death metal. I am planning on going to a local audio store to listen to different speakers/brands to see what I like but would also like some advice from some of the experts here. Thanks