Active monitors, 3k used, great nearfield sound

Try also Genelec 8040A (warmer than ATC but clinical). Focal Twin 6 Be (splashy and fun). JBL, KRK, Dynaudio and Adam also make good actives in this price range - so try to hear a few to see which sounds right for you.

Focal XS. There's nothing better for the money, it's a purchase you'll never regret.
http://www.xs-focal.com/

Studio monitors-The mackies use a passive radiator to force extra bass. the weird location of the passive sends low end everywhere too, so I imagine it vibrates your walls at home easily.

To know what you are ready for depends on how you feel about the midrange of the Mackies. Do you want it clearer or do you want what the Mackies are with less low end?
Brad

Second Shadorne's rec. of Genelec. I only heard them in the store but felt they bettered Dynaudio, KRK, Mackie for natural, non-fatiguing sound.

Third the Genelecs. I have a pair of 8030A. Incredible sound. Pin prick detail and real slam (I have the 7050B sub to augment that).

Genelecs are almost standard for near-field monitors in mixing music, movies and tv shows. Huge following among professional recording engineers for their detail and consistency up and down the product line. They however are not "hi-fi warm' meaning less than stellar recordings don't sound great. My Led Zeppelin CD's are a good example. Dark Side of the Moon on the flip side sounds sublime.