Clio - I've heard great things about Quad's, of course, though never listened to them.
I can go to $4K. I have Joseph Audio Rm22si, which I think are great. I back it up with a Rel Strata iii sub, which may be overkill, but it's fun to hear the very deep bass, when it's in recordings. I auditioned Coincident Total Eclipse's at $4.5K and didn't think they were noticeably better than my Joseph's.
I'd like the best midrange I can get...as realistic vocals/acoustics as possible. No need for full range as the added sub seems to work for me. I love the huge soundstage of the Maggies, and presumably all Planars.
Thoughts? Maybe Quad is the way to go? Concerned about their exit from the US market (where I'm at).