I, too, am currently on a quest for speakers in the same price range. I have listened and read extensively about several speakers in this price range, and I have to second the suggestion by Chazzbo; try to audition some of the Dynaudios. I listened to several in the Contour line and I am now a convert (previously a big B&W fan). Two words that come to mind are transparency and resolution. Of the speakers on your list, I have only listened to the ProAc's. I loved the midrange, but they just didn't have the resolve and balanced presentation that I found with the Dynaudios. With your music preference, the Dyn's would really shine - I have not heard a more accurate reproduction of piano and acoustic instruments. These speakers may not be for everyone, though. One criticism that I have heard is that they are too analytical. I simply feel that they are accurate - they sound and measure extremely flat throughout the frequency spectrum. They are also relatively inefficient(86dB), so probably better suited to a SS(>80W) amp.
I am ordering a pair of 1.3SE's - which are versions of the 1.3mkII that were designed without regard to cost, and then priced. They retail for $3500, but I am getting a CES pair for the lower end of your range.
I have no affiliation with Dynaudio, although my post may seem like it. I am just that impressed with these speakers. You may want to check out the Aug 2000 review by John Atkinson in Stereopile of the 1.3mkII's. It also includes a sidebar on the 1.3SE's. Good luck in your quest.
Mark
I am ordering a pair of 1.3SE's - which are versions of the 1.3mkII that were designed without regard to cost, and then priced. They retail for $3500, but I am getting a CES pair for the lower end of your range.
I have no affiliation with Dynaudio, although my post may seem like it. I am just that impressed with these speakers. You may want to check out the Aug 2000 review by John Atkinson in Stereopile of the 1.3mkII's. It also includes a sidebar on the 1.3SE's. Good luck in your quest.
Mark