How do the Elac Uni-Fi UB5s compare to more expensive bookshelf speakers?

In terms of cost the truth is that I could buy the Elacs off of Amazon very soon because I have both cash and gift cards. If I hold out for the Kefs it will probably take me another 6 months of saving. 

I also should say that I will partnering either set of speakers with a subwoofer so bass response isn't something I am particularly worried about. I also listen to music at relatively low volumes. 

I listen mostly to low key rock and folk music and concentrate on vocals more than anything else so I need a speaker that excels at that. I tend to like a brighter sound though right now I am using a pair of wharfedale 10.1s and I hear from others that they have a warm sound to them. I am sure either pair of speakers will be an upgrade. I am concerned with aesthetics because who doesn't like nice things. I would probably spring for the slim finished cabinet ELACS which brings the price advantage down quite a bit. 

Most reviews and comments I have read praise the Elacs with rock music based on their dynamism and bass response. I have noticed that any reviews of the Kefs are from audiophile sites that tend to audition speakers with classical and jazz music. I think that is more about the reviewers and readership than it is about what the speakers are capable of. However, without being able to A/B them myself I have to take things on faith. I suppose I could order the elacs and then return them if I don't like them. What do you think?

I understand your desire to change the sonic character of your system via speaker change. Serves as one of best ways to explore and discover which sonic characteristics are most important to oneself. After that one can then improve on the quality of the desired presentation with the purchase of a more refined speaker having the desired characters. From reviews do you get the impression that the Elacs are brighter than the Wharfes? If so maybe you should give them a shot.  

With your amplifier you are positioned for speakers that are more refined than the Wharfdales or Elacs. Of the speakers you mentioned, I have heard and really like the Dynaudio X14s. They sometimes come up used here on AG. I intend to purchase a pair myself when a pair comes up at my price. 

Even tougher. Just found a used pair of the finished slim cabinet Elacs for $600 on Amazon. I could get those tomorrow.

At or around your price you can get a previously owned pair of Revel M22's . Reference quality sound for a very affordable price.

If you have the funds to get the ELACs from Amazon now, then I'd do that and take a good listen for yourself. Amazon has an excellent return policy so you've got 30 days to get a feel for whether they are for you (in your space, room matching should not be overlooked!). If not, return them for a refund and save up for some KEFs.