Pete - I made a similar decision many(ten) years ago. Suffice it to say, that while I liked B & W's speaks, and thought they were slightly more convincing on brass, with a fuller tonal balance, I went with(and still own) the Vandersteen 1B's, which sounded more transparent, less boxy, and just generally more magical to my ears. By using NAD's loudness contour, I was actually able to get the Vandy's to fill out like the B & W's, whereas I could never get the B & W's to sound as airy and engaging as the Vandersteens. Just my opinion, but I may have come closest to your situation. I now have a Linn LP12 and a recent Pioneer Elite CD player, but still have my same speakers. If the 1C's are anything like the 1B's, they should be towards the top of your list. Your musical tastes sound similar as well. Better out there? Sure, but probably not for $ 750. Personally, I would entertain used speaks to upgrade your options, as some real gems come up on this site from time to time.
Good luck in your search!
Good luck in your search!