"Best" speakers new/used under $3,000?

DSchultz....I was actually referring to any 800 series B&W in the price range I specified. Like a nice looking pair of 802 series 2 that I see at $2,300 listed now, or something similar....I'm reasonable.

I've heard great things from this thread about the Merlins, which I WILL make a point of listening too.

I understand that this is subjective so there is no "BEST" which is exactly why I put it in quotes. But I do need a place to start, and I think this community has invaluable experience. Knowledgable people's preferences acquired through actual experience are very helpful to me. Thanks to anyone who posts with your opinion. I am going to buy speakers soon, and I appreciate the help. For instance, I would have never gone out of my way to consider Merlins before, but I'm considering them now.

I understand that many if not most people may recommend speakers that they actually own. I don't neccessarily consider that to be a bad thing. After all, there had to be a reason that people purchased these speakers they love in the first place, so I consider that to be one of the highest possible forms of a sincere recommendation.

I mostly listen to classic rock and newer rock with blues and jazz mixed in. Ideally, I want speakers to be revealing, lively, fast and musical with a large soundstage. I'm willing to give up a smoother more flowing sound that might suit classical or perhaps some types of jazz music better for something deatiled that has some punch and liveliness to it, perhaps over speakers which are more refined but not quite as suited in those areas reflecting my musical taste. Thanks to all.

Is a 20' by 16' room considered small or large?

My room is 20' by 16' and nearly empty, I'm a bachelor :) It's connected to a dining room of the same size through a 10' by 7' opening. It has a VERY nice sound...I think of it as a component. The floors are wood, it's sparse (nothing between the stereo/speakers and couch but a cofee table) and two high circular corner fishtanks on the listening end cut off the sharp corners there.

I only mention the room because a couple people asked...what is the room like. I'll be looking for speakers which have nice reviews, the Merlins by far had the most support. It will be hard to audition used gear, so I may have to take a leap of faith, but at least I have an idea of what's on the other side.