Speaker recommendation. have $2,500

How about Usher speakers. I have the x719 and really like them. I have heard Ushers floor standers and think they are excellent.

If you can find a clean pair, the Dynaudio 3.3's are actually quite good speakers, and they go for roughly $2,500-$3,000 used. They are also less forward than the C1/C2/C4, which is what many people find off putting about the sound of those models.

Of course, this recommendation assumes that you like the Dynaudio house sound, which you must if you like the C4's.

I've been told to check out Vandersteen 2ce MKII.

Yes, check them out.

These have already been said but I will list them for you:

Vandersteen 2CE MKII
Magnepan 1.6
Gallo 3.1 Ref.

I've owned all three of these speakers and would agree with the great press they have gotten. Also check-out Jim Salk's offerings. I've heard his speakers at RMAF a number of times and have always been impressed. He has a strong following over on AudioCircle.