THE BEST SMALL SPEAKERS

i think 'ya got you're room dimensions screwed up, but maybe not. do you really have 19' ceilings in a 10'x20' room? if so, wow! i envy you. IAE, i highly recommend the avalon symbols. they've just been introduced in the u.s. (they will be shown at ces in the muse electronics room in a 6-channel configuration, including a center and sub. the subs are powered by muse amps and, like the symbols, will be sold separately or as 5.1 or 6 channel systems). i've spent a considerable amount of time listening to the symbols as 2-channel speaks diven by both analog and digital frontends. they are fabulous, and, for your application, sound spectacular even in the near field. i wouldn't even think about buying another monitor-sized speaker pair in the $3k range without auditioning the symbol. FWIW, my older son has already purchased a pair for delivery as soon as they are available.

www.vocedivina.com -- Voce Divina Soprano.

I have heard the Audio Physic Step and thought that it was a great sounding small speaker. It is limited by the fact that the woofer is very small and can handle only so much power before bottoming out. If you do not listen to loud music it may be an excellent choice. If you do listen to loud music the ProAc Response speakers are great musical speakers. You may be able to fit the 1.5 in that space. They are expensive, but they would enable you to have full range sound in your narrow room.

Coincident Triumphs are a good choice.

Castle "Isis" (discontinued) continue to be the favorite of a local Castle dealer. I don't know if you'll ever find a used pair of Verity Audio Encore "Monitor" satellites (these are the top 1/2 of the Encores), but they have the best midrange of ANYTHING I've heard, and actually roll off smoother in the upper bass than when mated to their woofer basses! They list for an unfortunate $5600, but if you can find a pair of demos/used in the $3k range give them a VERY serious listen! I'm continually stunned that a 5" piston midrange can sound that quick 'n natural! Sonus Faber is a good bet; B&W CDM1 or Pro-Ac Tablet 50 for lower rez. Good Luck, and happiest holidays.