@richardmathes: I haven't read through this entire thread. As such, I'm sure there are/were many great speakers mentioned and/or recommended here and this is probably redundant, to some extent. However, that being said, a few years ago, I spent LOTS of time in reading, researching and orchestrated critical listening sessions in order to replace my two-channel system speakers. As with most things HiFi, proper component matching and careful consideration of your room dimensions and acoustic properties are very, very important factors here. Here are some of the speakers I did serious seat-time with during my quest and liked very much: Monitor Audio + Focal + Sonus Faber + Martin Logan + Vienna Acoustics (would need to stretch that budget range for new and needs beefy amp) + Paradigm + Aerial Acoustics (would need to stretch that budget for new and needs beefy amp) + Vandersteen + Dynaudio + Spendor (needs careful amp-matching and room placement) + GoldenEar Triton + PSB + Revel. The good reviews are too numerous to mention. That, you'll need and should do for yourself.
As you are probably already aware, speakers are likely THE MOST personal or subjective choice for a HiFi enthusiast or audiophile. Only YOUR ears can and will tell you what sounds "best"
Enjoy the journey!