Best speaker in nearfield listening

I sit that close to my Harbeth Compact 7ES. Unbelievable. Really. Depending on finish, about $2200 US new. Good luck. Charlie

I sit 6 Feet from my Gallo Nucleus Reference speakers and the soundstage and imaging is uncanny. It is as if the speakers disappear.

Reference 3a Royal Masters.

Any of the full range Soundlab electro stats are exceptional in the near field. Reason: they are a full range single element; no crossovers, no need to blend seperate drivers. You can listen to them very close almost like giant headphones. Nearfield listening also has the advantage of minimizing room effects from the back wave of the panels.

Along with the above choices I think you are on target with the Audio Physics speakers. The Virgos would fit easily into your price range.