Best bookshelf speakers for bookshelf placement

Von Schweikert VR-1s.

I'll second the North Acoustics Spirit recommendation - we have a pair (in Sapele finish) in a built-in bookshelf in our family room and they sound great. They're close together, so not much imaging to speak of, but the bass reinforcement of the cabinet balances them out nicely. The speaker is also very well finished, so no concerns there. Good luck!

I have a pair of Sonus Faber Concertos built into a case. They are ported to the front.

I use a pair of Audio Note AN-K in a similar application- but probably a smaller room (11X15). I've tried a variety of other bookshelf speakers (Spendor, Soliloquy, Reynaud), but the Audio Note has worked out the best for near wall placement. I drive them with a Jungson solid state amp- the K's don't necessarily need tubes.

If you can swing a small sub, something like the Gallo A'Diva or Duo might be what you are looking for in terms of transparency and soundstage.